Victorian orange growers have produced a bumper crop but, with the challenges of overproduction and a high Australian dollar, they are finding it difficult to compete on the international and domestic markets. Some growers fear their businesses may be permanently affected.

“Victorian farmers are calling on consumers to get behind them this winter by buying Australian oranges. With plenty of fresh supply and excellent retail prices, now is the time, and the season, to invest in locally produced oranges for the benefit of farmers and the health benefits they provide to consumers,” Mr Broad said.

“Whereas oranges from overseas are often dry and lack flavour, the freshness of Australian oranges guarantee their taste and quality. The best way to tell where an orange has come from is to check the label or ask your grocer.”

“In the midst of a cold Melbourne winter the health benefits of oranges can’t be over stated. When it comes to fruit and veggies, the real deal is always better than dietary supplements, especially for the prevention of colds and flus.”

“It’s been proven that eating oranges will capture the full combination of nutrients that will keep your immune system strong and protect you from viral infections. Oranges have also been linked to the reduction of cholesterol and the prevention of arthritis, kidney stones and cancer.”

“My message to consumers is do yourself a favour this winter, be proud to buy Aussie oranges by the kilo and support your local farmers,” Mr Broad concluded.

President of the VFF Horticulture Group Susan Finger said growers may be facing a crisis.

“Victorian orange growers have survived the drought, bushfires, floods and frost but a high Australian dollar might be the straw that breaks the camel’s back,” Mrs Finger said.

“We are now at the point where navel oranges are costing more to pick than what’s being returned in sales. There are real fears that growers may only get a quarter of the selling price of oranges. This would have a devastating impact on the Victorian industry and the regional communities in which citrus is grown,” Mrs Finger concluded.