- WA-bred Bravo branded apples, known internationally as Soluna, the first consignment of mainland Australian apple exports to China
- Market set to be worth more than $10 million in the next two years
- DPIRD's Manjimup site home to Australian National Apple Breeding Program
- Cook Labor Government investments supporting a thriving WA fruit industry, diversified economy and job creation
The Cook Labor Government has applauded Western Australian apple researchers and growers as the first shipment of mainland Australian apples to break into the large Chinese market arrives today.
Bravo apples, developed in Western Australia and branded as Soluna for the global marketplace, have been chosen for the inaugural shipment.
The initial 80 tonne consignment is set to unlock a market expected to be worth more than $10 million in the next two years.
The sweet eating apple - with its striking deep burgundy skin and contrasting crisp, white flesh that is slow to brown - is well placed to capture the attention of Chinese consumers.
The popular variety is also highly regarded for its nutritional benefits, which could help lower the risk of heart disease.
Bravo apples - a cross between Royal Gala and the WA Cripps Red variety - were developed by the Australian National Apple Breeding Program, based at the State's Manjimup Horticulture Research Institute.
More than 50,000 seedlings are being evaluated at Manjimup, where Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) scientists are developing the next generation of unique and tasty varieties suited to WA conditions.
The Cook Labor Government recently installed high-tech cold storage technology at the Manjimup facility to support research that improves fruit shelf life and handling to deliver quality fresh products for consumers, while reducing costs and creating market opportunities for industry.
National production of Bravo branded apples continues to build, destined for domestic markets, as well as export under the Soluna brand, including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates - and now China.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"The Bravo apple is a beloved variety here in Western Australia - it's a WA success story and we're incredibly proud that it was developed by local researchers and growers.
"We're also immensely proud of our apple breeding program and its global reputation for producing nutritious, delicious fruit for consumers to enjoy, backed by WA growers' sophisticated production systems.
"The Cook Labor Government continues to invest in fruit research, including the recent cold storage upgrade at Manjimup, as well as DPIRD's work in the national Narrow Orchard System project to boost yields and quality, while reducing costs and emissions.
"These investments support our producers, their communities, and help create local jobs - in addition to contributing to our State's economy and agriculture exports.
"I look forward to seeing our fruit industry continuing to develop and grow, as industry adopts new practices and technologies backed by our investments and research."
