In the Far West New South Wales town of Menindee, the Darling River plays a crucial role in the community's agriculture, tourism, and horticultural activities. Local growers, like Tony Lombardo, a second-generation orange and table grape producer, continue to navigate the fluctuating conditions of the region. The town's agricultural sector, enriched by its Aboriginal cultural heritage, produces a variety of crops including grapes, oranges, watermelons, and potatoes.
Steve Howse, a former miner turned grape grower, capitalizes on Menindee's early production window, thanks to the local climate and soil, to supply Menindee seedless grapes to major Australian supermarkets. This strategic timing allows Menindee's growers to enter the market before larger regions. The town's agricultural timeline is notably marked by the table grape season, running from November to May.
The recent history of Menindee has been shaped by extreme weather events, including a severe drought from 2017 to 2019 and major flooding at the end of 2022, followed by significant fish kills. Despite these challenges, the community remains resilient. Newcomers like Francesco Bozzi, attracted by the potential for early market entry for their produce, have expanded their horticultural operations to include watermelons, potatoes, and table grapes.
Water security remains a pivotal concern for the region's growers. The variability of water access influences the viability and mood of the agricultural community. Richard Unsworth, a retired table grape grower, reflects on the evolution of horticultural practices in Menindee, emphasizing the importance of diversification in crop planting for ensuring the sustainability of farming operations.
As Menindee's agricultural sector adapts to the challenges and opportunities presented by its environment, the community's commitment to resilience and innovation continues to drive its success.
Source: ABC News