Developing orchardists of the future pilot (LP23001)

What was it all about?

This project strengthened the skills, confidence and decision‑making capability of Australia’s apple and pear growers, with a strong focus on the next generation of orchard managers. It piloted an integrated extension and education model that combined technical knowledge, financial benchmarking, leadership development and market feedback. Growers gained practical tools to assess orchard performance, lift efficiency and make informed decisions about reinvestment or removal of poor‑performing blocks.

The project built on the existing Future Orchards® platform and was delivered through orchard walks across all major growing regions, webinars, a technical symposium, masterclasses and a leadership program for young growers. A Young Grower Immersion Program enabled emerging growers to take part in orchard walks alongside global experts. Seven grower‑led on‑farm trials were supported through a trial incubator, and a South Africa study tour exposed participants to international production systems. Key data‑based outputs included Orchard Business Analysis (financial benchmarking), a crop forecast and a quality program providing direct feedback from retail fruit.

The project addressed key challenges facing the apple and pear industry, including variable fruit quality, rising costs, limited financial literacy at block level and the need to attract, retain and develop younger growers and staff. Many businesses lacked clear data to guide decisions about orchard improvement or block removal.

As a result, growers are expected to make more confident, data‑driven decisions that improve productivity, profitability and fruit quality over time. Increased use of benchmarking, block scorecards and on‑farm trials will support more efficient orchard systems, while targeted education and leadership development will help build a skilled and resilient future workforce for the apple and pear industry.