Cyclone Narelle Strikes WA: Extensive Damage to Gascoyne Crops

Cyclone Narelle caused significant damage to fruit and vegetable production in Western Australia's Gascoyne region, with one banana grower reporting over 80% crop destruction.

One banana grower reported over 80% crop destruction, with the majority of the crop unfit for sale.

Carnarvon Impact and Broader Damage

The cyclone, a category two system, impacted Carnarvon, a town responsible for producing fresh food valued at approximately $1.5 billion annually for domestic and export markets. Earlier, as a category four system, Narelle caused widespread damage in Exmouth, further north, with gusts around 200 kilometers per hour affecting homes and the airport.

Grower Reports Significant Losses

Les Ball, a banana grower and chair of the Sweeter Banana Co-Operative, estimated substantial losses for his crop. While a small portion may be salvageable, the majority is unfit for sale. Other growers in the region also reported considerable damage, anticipating weeks for cleanup efforts.

National Context and Supply Outlook

This damage in Western Australia follows similar losses in Queensland's fruit-growing industry due to extreme weather, including impacts from Cyclone Narelle itself. Queensland growers had warned of potential supply shortages. However, Mr. Ball expressed optimism that a major impact on banana supplies in stores would be avoided.

Optimistic Recovery for Gascoyne

Mr. Ball indicated that while the productivity of banana farms would be affected for the next year, the long-term impact on the industry should not be severe. He noted that the Gascoyne region's ability to diversify crops would aid recovery. He expects production to return to normal after about a year.