FOR Redland Premium Fruits, the purchase of fruit packaging facilities formerly owned by Geoffrey Thompson Holdings in Mooroopna in 2023 was the “final piece of the puzzle.”
One hundred per cent Australian-owned, this vertically integrated operation, now anchored by the significant Mooroopna assets, had finally assembled all the components of its ambitious vision.
“It’s been great to be able to bring Redland to life as such, to be able to take full control of the level of investment that we’ve put into modern agriculture,” said Head of Marketing Jordan Bain.
“We consider ourselves to be one of the most advanced, modern, permanent tree and vine crop producers in Australia, and if not, hopefully, globally,” he said. “We really try to push the boundaries at a farm level to ultimately produce beautiful fruit.”
Redland employs 201 people in the Mooroopna pack shed. At peak season, the facility produces approximately 1,500 tonnes of citrus and 500 tonnes of apples each week.
From their burgeoning orchards stretching across Queensland, New South Wales, and Western Australia to the established apple and pear production of the Goulburn Valley, and now, crucially, these advanced packing facilities, Redland is in control of its destiny from the seed to the shelf.
This control is vital as they cultivate a range of sought-after apple varieties, including the exciting new Sassy apple.
“It’s probably the first genuine IP variety will come off the tree in Australia,” Bain explained, highlighting its early maturity and unique ability to colour in warmer climates, making it well-suited to Australian conditions.
Redland is also focused on established favourites and exploring opportunities with varieties like Dazzle, which Bain noted has potential for the discerning Chinese export market due to its sweetness and high colour. This focus on diverse apple offerings underscores Redland’s commitment to meeting both domestic and international consumer demands.
This varietal strategy reflects Redland’s commitment to catering to evolving consumer preferences around the world. Equally important is the company’s investment in the local community. “We are invested in their community—through people, jobs, sponsorship, and food charity,” Bain said.
