Innovation of local orchardist leading industry
A NEW variety of apple is set to hit the shelves in the coming years thanks to the innovation of third generation Shepparton east orchardist, Nathan Barolli and his family, who will be planting the Red Moon apple from next year.
The family run orchard will be one of only five distributors of the variety of apple across the world, and the only grower in Australasia.
Nathan said, “We are aiming to have the seed in the ground from next year and will be planting 100ha over the next decade and will be working in conjunction with other growers across Australia who are keen to come on board.
“We currently produce 15,000 bins annually of apples, pears and plums we are hoping distributing this new variety, that is not found anywhere in Australia, will see those numbers grow.
“I first came across this variety in northern Italy three years ago and through a mutual connection we were able to obtain the seed.
“It has crimson skin and red-coloured flesh and is high in vitamin C and anthocyanin so there are some great health benefits to this type of apple. It has a sweet taste with a slight tartness and tastes like a cross between a Granny Smith and a Pink Lady.
“We decided to grow it because of the lack of this variety around the world. A lot of red flesh fruit doesn’t eat well, but this one does.”
Nathan’s innovation was also recently recognised when he was named Apple and Pear Australia’s rising star of the year.
