Australians are urged to rally behind growers as bushfires and drought hit the industry. Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew Young urged Australians to rally behind the fresh produce industry through the purchase of fruit and vegetables in the face of likely price rises from the dual impacts of bushfire and drought.
“Growers are doing it tough, but the best way Australians can help these businesses – many of which have been run by families for generations – is to keep buying fresh fruit and vegetables even if they have to pay a little bit extra,” Mr Young said. “With the on-going support of Australians, our growers will get through this challenging period just as they have overcome difficult times in the past.”
Brisbane Markets receives produce from more than 7000 growers and Mr Young said the bushfires coupled with the persistent drought were impacting fruit and vegetable production areas across Australia, as well as road transport both within and between states.
“This is creating supply issues in relation to a range of products, including many vegetable lines, and unfortunately the impact could run over an extended period, particularly in relation to infrastructure and the damage caused to the likes of tree and vine orchards,” said Mr Young. “As supply volumes tighten, that was likely to be reflected in price increases for many product lines. Even with these challenges, the cost of eating fresh fruit and vegetables in Australia to support a healthy diet remains very reasonable.”
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