The lead up to harvest is progressing well across all farms.
La Niña caused weather conditions to be cooler and wetter, which initially slowed growth across both regions. While Bushy Park Estates escaped most of the rainfall, Rostrevor Hop Gardens and Buffalo River Valley experienced some localised flooding that put pressure on the timely execution of operations.
The final acreage of the Victorian expansion project has been completed and the young plants are looking healthy. Basal growth control, pest and nutritional programs, general housekeeping, and final preparations in the picking facilities are also in full swing.
We’ve had no lost time injuries for the last quarter, and traction on MYOSH and other safety initiatives have improved. We’re currently reviewing harvest-related procedures and are receiving great input and feedback from the farm teams.
Harvest labour resourcing is also tracking well. We received applications for more than the required positions in both TAS and VIC, with the vetting and confirmation process now well underway.