Horticulture

The horticulture industry is growing in the Wheatbelt as urban expansion is pushing the industry out of its traditional areas. Areas around Gingin, Chittering and Dandaragan, in particular, are providing an attractive alternative with their high rainfall, suitable groundwater and proximity to markets. Viticulture is also an expanding industry with areas in the southern and western areas of the region proving to be ideal for grape production.

Facts and Figures

• Main crops include citrus fruits, stone fruits, grapes, olives, avocados, mangoes, carrots, cauliflowers, lettuce and potatoes.
• The Wheatbelt is WA’s largest producer of oranges and cut flowers.
• There are currently around 60 grape growers in the Wheatbelt region
• Approximately 80% of grapes produced in the Wheatbelt are used for wine production

Wheatbelt Advantages

• The fruit industry in the Wheatbelt enjoys a ‘clean and green’ image, with low chemical use and freedom from many major pests and diseases.
• Proximity to the Perth market
• Proximity to major infrastructure, including transport networks, ports and processing facilities
• The Avon Arc provides ideal conditions, including high rainfall, suitable soils and available groundwater, for many horticultural products
• Various species of native and exotic flowers can be grown throughout the region

Opportunities

• The mango industry is one of the fastest growing horticultural industries in the state and there are significant export opportunities available.
• Potential for expansion of the citrus industry in response to forecast increases in demand for fresh and processing fruit, particularly in South-East Asia
• The growing market for convenient, healthy foods represents potential value-adding opportunities in the area of vegetable processing
• There are opportunities for investment in the production of a range of Asian vegetables
• There is opportunity to capitalise on WA’s reputation as a quality wine producer through investment in the winemaking industry in the Wheatbelt.
• As WA’s main producer of cut flowers opportunities exist for further commercialization of native flower species, particularly for export markets