Australia's hazelnut sector is engaging with Charles Sturt University specialists to deploy robotic dogs in orchards, aiming to deter birds and enhance nut production. Bird-related losses have notably impacted the industry financially. This initiative is among several strategies, including drones and netting, to mitigate avian threats. Hazelnut Growers of Australia's Trevor Ranford highlighted the departure of small-scale growers due to these challenges.
The domestic hazelnut market faces a supply shortfall, with imports significantly exceeding local production. According to Geoff Gurr, a professor at Charles Sturt University, the country imports about six times the hazelnuts it produces. This reliance on foreign nuts contrasts sharply with the quality of fresh, locally-grown produce.
To address these issues and bolster local production, AgriFutures Australia has allocated $2 million towards a research and technology program. This investment aims to support current growers and attract new participants to the industry. Veteran growers Jean and Basil Baldwin from Forest Reefs, NSW, emphasized the importance of this funding in addressing long-standing industry challenges, including bird control and nut storage and drying practices.
The industry's pursuit of growth is underscored by the relatively low production and plantation figures for hazelnuts in Australia, compared to other tree nuts. Despite this, there is optimism for hazelnuts to gain prominence in the Australian agricultural landscape, similar to the growth observed in the almond sector decades ago. The industry aims to expand its membership, encouraging both increased production among existing growers and the involvement of new entrants.
Source: ABC News