1300 436 332
Email Us
Find the nearest MADEC
Embark on a vibrant journey through Australia's citrus belt, where the air is fragrant with the zest of oranges, lemons, and mandarins.
From the sun-kissed orchards of Western Australia to the lush groves of Queensland, down through the heart of New South Wales, across the bountiful Riverland of South Australia, and into the historic citrus country of Victoria, this trail offers a unique blend of agricultural bounty and scenic beauty.
Western Australia
- Grapefruit: May-August
- Oranges: Continuous supply, with a peak May-November
- Mandarins: March-October
- Lemons/Limes: January-October
Begin your adventure in Western Australia, where the citrus farms near Perth offer a picturesque start. In places like Gingin, you’ll find orchards nestled among wildflowers and native bushland, providing a serene backdrop to the bustling harvest activity. The region’s diverse climate allows for a year-round supply of grapefruits, peaking from May to August, alongside oranges, mandarins, and lemons/limes that dot the landscape with vibrant colours.
Queensland’s Citrus Powerhouse
- Mandarins: Peak harvest May-September in regions like Emerald and Gayndah/Mundubbera
- Lemons/Limes: Major production March-September, especially in Mareeba and Bundaberg
- Oranges: Less than 1% of national production but available year-round
- Grapefruit: March-November, peaking July-October in the Burnett region
Next, head to Queensland, where the sunshine state lives up to its name with bright, juicy citrus. The Burnett region, including towns like Bundaberg and Gayndah, becomes a hive of activity as the citrus harvest peaks. Here, the air is thick with the scent of mandarins and lemons, and the local festivals celebrate the citrus heritage with zest and zeal. Queensland’s warm climate ensures a continuous citrus supply, with specific peaks for each fruit type, making it a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the heart of citrus country.
South Australia’s Riverland
- Oranges: May-November, with the Riverland region being a significant contributor
- Mandarins: March-September, peaking June-August in the Riverland
- Lemons/Limes: Available August-November, peak harvest in September-October
- Grapefruit: February-December, peak April-October in the Riverland
Journey through South Australia’s Riverland, where the mighty Murray River nourishes the land, giving life to lush citrus orchards. Towns like Berri and Renmark are agricultural hubs and gateways to natural wonders, offering a blend of work and exploration. The region’s significant contribution to the national citrus output is celebrated in local markets, where the fruits of the harvest are proudly displayed. The community’s connection to the land is palpable, making it a rewarding experience for anyone joining the harvest.
Victoria’s Murray Valley
- Oranges: May-December, peak July-October
- Mandarins: March-September, peak June-August
- Lemons/Limes: June-October
- Grapefruit: February-December, peak April-September
Venture into Victoria’s Murray Valley, where the historic towns of Mildura and Swan Hill offer a glimpse into Australia’s pioneering spirit. The citrus groves here are part of a landscape that has been carefully cultivated over centuries, with each tree telling a story of resilience and adaptation. The harvest season brings a sense of renewal as workers gather the bountiful crops, from tangy lemons to sweet oranges, each with its specific harvest peak.
New South Wales
- Oranges: NSW leads with 59% of total production, harvest year-round, peak in August and September, mainly in the Riverina
- Grapefruit: February-December, peak June-September, with the Riverina as a major area
- Lemons/Limes: January-October, peaking May-August in very small volumes, Lismore region
- Mandarins: March-October, peak harvest in August and September
Explore the vast citrus landscapes of New South Wales, where the Riverina stands as a testament to the region’s agricultural prowess. Towns like Griffith and Leeton are alive with the buzz of the harvest year-round, offering a chance to be part of a community deeply rooted in the citrus tradition.
