By CAITLIN CROWLEY
AUSTRALIA’S largest grower of Kensington Pride mangoes has been awarded the commercial rights to three new varieties of the iconic tropical fruit, in a win for both consumers and the next generation of North Queensland farmers.
Manbulloo Group’s marketing, management and export company, Mango Road, was selected by the Queensland government to manage the launch of the new varieties, developed during the National Mango Breeding Program (NMVP).
“The three new varieties were chosen from 1850 new hybrid lines developed since the NMBP was established in 1994 and can truly be described as elite,” Queensland agriculture minister Mark Furner said.
“Their attributes of attractive coloured fruit, desirable flavour, shape and size made them a standout to the NMBP’s judging panel.
“They have been through rigorous development and assessment processes so that consumers can be sure of their quality and we can be confident that they will add to our reputation for producing safe and delicious food.
“Commercialising these new varieties will mean mango lovers will have more choice when shopping and will also drive growth in business and employment opportunities in regional Queensland.”
Manbulloo mangoes are grown across seven farms in northern Australia, with two near Townsville and another three inland from Cairns.
Mango Road managing director Marie Piccone (main picture) said the company was excited to commercialise the new varieties to “delight consumers and sustain profitability for growers.”
“The new varieties display characteristics such as higher productivity in some regions, earlier and later fruit maturity and harvest timing, and an attractive appearance and good shelf life,” she said.
“Kensington Pride is Australia’s favourite mango variety, and its delicious flavour will be expanded as Kensington Pride is a parent of all three varieties.
“Their flavour profiles are similar to Kensington Pride, providing an eating experience so loved by consumers in Australia and globally.”
In more positive news for mango lovers, Brett Kelly from the Australian Mango Industry Association told the Caller, at this stage the signs for the upcoming season across all growing regions are good and indicate a bigger volume than last year.