Where are oranges grown in Australia?
Oranges and mandarins in Australia are grown mainly in irrigated districts along the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers, including the Riverland, Sunraysia and the Riverina, and in Queensland's Central Burnett region.
The Riverland of South Australia, Sunraysia around Mildura in Victoria and the Riverina around Griffith and Leeton in New South Wales are the main orange-growing areas. Irrigation water from the rivers makes production possible in these dry inland regions.
Queensland's Central Burnett district, around Gayndah and Mundubbera, is a major mandarin-growing area. Gayndah has a long history of citrus growing and holds a regular Orange Festival.
Navels and Valencias
Navel oranges are mainly eaten fresh and are available in winter, while Valencia oranges are harvested later and are often used for juice. Imperial mandarins are an early-season favorite.
Australia exports large quantities of citrus, especially to China, Japan, Hong Kong and other Asian markets. Exports have grown strongly due to demand for high-quality fresh fruit.
Citrus growers face challenges from drought, water prices and pests such as fruit fly. Many regions have strict quarantine rules that stop travelers bringing fruit in.
Did You Know?
Mundubbera is home to the Big Mandarin, a giant roadside fruit sculpture.