Favourable Agricultural Outlook for Queensland

The Rural Bank has just released its mid-year outlook report for 2021. In this particular document, there were six different categories that were carefully examined. They are dairy, agriculture, wool, sheep, cropping and cattle. Additionally, the economic aspects were also minutely scrutinized. Queensland has always had a favourable report. However, due to the mouse plague penetrating the border and the negative effects of the pandemic, the labour shortage has adversely affected producers. Nevertheless, efforts are being made to make this forecast even better with time.

One of the main reasons for Queensland producing such a favourable agricultural outlook is the pleasant weather. The cool and stable climate, along with a good amount of rainfall, are the main reasons for this positive movement. This report has brought a lot of relief to the community since the advent of the pandemic. Even though winter is slowly setting in, Queensland’s output has been extremely favourable. As mentioned, the main reason for this is the steady amount of rainfall that the region has been receiving throughout. Also, the closing of international borders has dried up the backpacker workforce, which has required a longer harvest to get the fruit off of trees.

Horticulture producers have enjoyed the mild weather alongside the drop in irrigation costs. Yields in Queensland have been good across the board. The mild conditions have meant that everything has shaped up nicely for the vegetable and fruit industries. Hai Yellina, of Orchard Tech, has added that although the mouse plague is not affecting Queensland producers as badly as their New South Wales counterparts, it was a mark on the outlook. Queensland’s citrus production expanded from last season with exceptional quality reported throughout the state after a mostly mild and still summer period. However, there is still the labour shortage, caused by the pandemic.

Article by: Hari Yellina (Orchard Tech)