West Australian cherry farmers suffer through horror growing season

Aussies hoping to have cherries on their Christmas table might have to plan for an alternative fruit after some crops were devastated by extreme weather conditions during growing season.

West Australian farmers have had to deal with hot, dry, and windy weather during summer after battling through an unusually warm winter with minimal frosts.

The unseasonal weather conditions have resulted in significantly reduced yields, with some orchards in Manjimup, about 300km south of Perth, experiencing crop losses exceeding 90 per cent.

The disappointing result means West Australians are unlikely to buy locally sourced cherries.

West Australian cherry farmers have been battling a warm winter this year that has significantly impacted sensitive cherry crops.

Southern Forests Food Council (SFFC) chair Arthur Wilson said cherries were often a high-risk, high-reward crop.

“While farmers are accustomed to some variability, this season’s challenges have been unprecedented,” Mr Wilson said.

He said summer rains could cause fruit splitting, hailstorms could damage blossoms, and warm winters could prevent adequate fruit development.

“Farmers are resilient and innovative,” Mr Wilson said.

“They’re constantly adapting and investing in innovative solutions to better prepare for a changing climate.”

It’s expected farmers will see significant losses and a reduction in seasonal jobs for the region following the tough weather conditions.

With many farmers financially impacted by the lacklustre crops this year, Mr Wilson encouraged those planning their food shopping list ahead of Christmas to continue to buy local.

“It’s an incredibly challenging time for our producers, but we are committed to working alongside them, promoting sustainability and championing their efforts in the face of adversity,” he said.

“We encourage shoppers to help support local farmers wherever possible when making food choices too.”

The SFFC confirmed unprecedented warm seasons had also affected this year’s truffle yields and quality, avocados, which are ripening earlier than usual, and apple and pear yields, which are anticipated to be below average.

Despite the hardship, cherry farmers have established new plantations in Manjimup and other regions, aiming to stabilise local supply and reduce reliance on cherries imported from interstate.