Save our strawberry growers: A letter to Minister Littleproud

Dear Minister,

Over the past week, most strawberry growers throughout Queensland have had their seasons brought to a rapid end due to fruit tampering.

The terrorising act has left one man hospitalised after swallowing half a sewing needle that has led to major supermarkets recalling the fruit and spooking consumers’ nationwide.

By the weekend, Coles and Aldi stores had removed all Queensland strawberries for the remainder of this strawberry season.

Queensland strawberry growers are in complete shock, with many contemplating the financial run this will have on their businesses off the back of seasonal low prices.

I have spoken to Queensland growers and their state body who have confirmed emergency talks have occurred with supermarkets with further meeting taking place this week.

The Queensland strawberry industry consists of roughly 80 growers and is worth approximately $200 million dollars each year to the state’s economy, generated over a 4 to 5 month period.

Berry growers now employ more workers than any other in the fruit and vegetable industry. These jobs too have also come to an early end, costing small town economies enormously.

I note that some strawberry growers have arranged meetings with their banks this week in anticipation of lenders having itchy feet and calling in loans.

I will make contact with Queensland strawberry growers to ensure them, my office will personally write to all banks this week to seek their support of this industry during what can only be described as a devastating event. I would encourage you to do the same.

In the event of Australians being the victim of terrorism, the Department of Human Services offers up to $75,000 depending on the circumstances.

These growers, I feel, are victims of an act of terror.

While no amount of money can revive the season Queensland growers have lost, there are ways your Government can assist these 80 growers by way of grants to implement scanners that will safeguard their fruit and assist in implementing new tamper-proof technologies before next year’s season.

Minister, I am seeking an urgent meeting with you and your department to discuss these and any other solutions you may have to assist our Queensland strawberry growers.

Kind Regards,

Pauline Hanson