News
14 July, 2024
A berry good breed at the Ekka
A new high-yielding and disease-resistant strawberry variety has been unveiled at the Ekka, promising to deliver better quality fruit to consumers and growers alike.
A new high-yielding and disease-resistant strawberry variety has been unveiled at the Ekka, promising to deliver better quality fruit to consumers and growers alike.
Named Stella-ASBP in honour of the late journalist and disability activist Stella Young, the new variety has been developed by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and Hort Innovation’s Australian Strawberry Breeding Program. It boasts resistance to red leaf disorder, a condition that can impact yields, and has performed strongly in consumer taste tests.
Agriculture Minister Mark Furner said the Stella-ASBP variety was part of the industry’s ongoing effort to improve strawberry production.
“DAF-bred varieties account for 85 per cent of Queensland’s strawberries and more than half of the national crop,” he said.
“The continued development of better varieties means stronger plants, higher yields and a more consistent supply for consumers.”
The new strawberry is available at farm gates, though variety names are not typically labelled on punnets. Industry leaders say it will enhance the overall eating experience.
Hort Innovation’s Andrew Francey said trials with growers showed the variety produced large, sweet fruit and an abundant crop.
“It’s a win for growers and a win for consumers,” he said.
DAF’s lead strawberry breeder Dr Jodi O’Neal said naming new varieties after accomplished Australians was a way to celebrate their contributions.
“Stella Young was fierce and funny, a champion for people with disabilities. We are pleased to honour her legacy in this way.”
