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THE AUSTRALIAN CAPER an ancient crop, for a new environment. Jonathon Trewartha The Australian Caper Company pty. ltd. In confidence. Summary for the grower. Diversifies income with a long term contract. Requires less than 1ML per hectare.
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THE AUSTRALIAN CAPER an ancient crop, for a new environment Jonathon Trewartha The Australian Caper Company pty. ltd. In confidence
Summary for the grower • Diversifies income with a long term contract. • Requires less than 1ML per hectare. • Gives a high gross margin, up to $9,000 per hectare and per ML. • Early cash flow in second or third year and short payback period. • Has a low capital cost, over two years between $30,000 to $50,000 depending on existing infrastructure. • Can grow in areas less suitable for other crop
Highest gross margin per ML used Above figures for other crops are based on 2006 prices
High value markets • Existing market for the buds and the berries. • Currently fully imported. Estimated $30 million market. • You can use the whole plant, with many value add products. • Currently sell to the likes of Maggie Beer, Stephano Di Piere, Ian Hemphill (Australia’s Guru on Herbs and Spices) Raw Berries Raw Buds
Resilient and undemanding crop for a changing climate • Drought resistant and handles poor nutrient, well drained soils • Pest and disease resistant, also kangaroos and rabbits do not like it. • Lifespan – 30 to 80 years plus • Hand Harvest - between Dec and Mar in the 2nd or 3rd year, full yield 4th or 5th year. • Management of pickers the key to success. Can pay piecemeal. • Harvest time is flexible, if it is to hot or labor not scheduled that week, the bud (herb) become a berry. • Processing - at the end of the picking day, pour into barrels, add salt.
Seeking four good growers in SA • Wishing to diversify income stream. • Have had experience in managing pickers. • Minimum of 3 hectares. • Must have available water (3 ML). • Have existing infrastructure. • Willingness to learn and share. • No hobby farmers