No autumn fruit says Tasmania
as much as apples. Our island was once known around the world as the Apple Isle. These days we do not grow as many, but here in Northern Tasmania, we continue the tradition by growing around 85 different varieties across the region.
Early European settlers could not believe how well apples grew in Van Diemen's Land. Varieties that produced good crops in the Northern Hemisphere flourished in the temperate climate and fertile soils to such an extraordinary degree that by the 1820s the colony was producing far more fruit than it could eat - or preserve.
By the 1840s apples were being exported to Sydney, Melbourne and New Zealand. By the 1890s there were regular shipments to Europe and the USA, and for the next 80 years Tasmania consolidated its international reputation as the 'Apple Isle'.
"The apple grows here in the greatest luxuriance, it appears indeed to have found a home in Van Diemen’s Land and revels in the wildest profusion-the last two years the trees have broken down with the weight of fruit."
Win a gift box of autumnal produce and products from Tasmanian Producer’s Collective!
Coming very soon, to celebrate Autumn, we'll be announcing THE APPLE QUIZ. To promote our local growers and producers we will be giving away seven gift boxes, one for each municipality across the northern region: Meander Valley, Break O’Day, Dorset, George Town, Northern Midlands, West Tamar and the City of Gastronomy, Launceston. Come back soon or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to get updates!
* CONDITIONS OF ENTRY
By ticking the box:
1. You confirm that your postcode is correct and that you live in one of the following municipalities: Launceston, West Tamar, George Town, Dorset, Meander Valley, Northern Midlands, Break O' Day.
2. You agree to have your name and photograph published in any GNT media announcement that will be published in local newspapers and on social media.
3. Your entry will go into the draw to be shortlisted.
4. The judges decision will be final.