Grower name
Ralph Winter
Orchard name
Illaroo
Brief history...
Ralph's parents bought Illaroo in 1972 with an orchard that was approximately 2ha in size. The remainder of the property has been cleared in the ensuing years allowing for the expansion of the orchard and grazing country.
The original orchard still had trees that were planted in 1926 and were still present until 1995. Illaroo has since expanded its orchard to cover approximately 20ha.
How long have the Winter's been growing Batlow Apples?
The family has been growing apples since 1972 and Ralph has been running the orchard since 1990.
Is there a history to the orchard?
The orchard started off being run by Ralph’s parents Norm and Ruth but as the orchard grew, Ralph joined his parents and eventually took over the day to day running of the orchard. It has taken a lot of hard work has gone into getting the orchard to where it is now.
What varieties are grown at Illaroo?
Granny Smith, Gala, Fuji, Red Delicious, Jonathan, Bonza, Pink Lady, Sundowner, Braeburn. The Winters have also trialed Mutsu, Firmgold and Summer Del's.
Ralph's Favourite Variety: Tree-ripe Granny Smith
Life in Batlow for a grower...
In one word, it is good. Yes, it is a busy place a lot of the time, but being your own boss means that you don’t answer to anyone and if you want to have a day off, you can!
Why are you proud to be part of Batlow Fruit Co-operative?
The Co-operative allows smaller growers like us to concentrate on what we do best - grow apples. We don’t need to worry about where we are going to send our fruit or who is selling it and for what price. The team at the co-operative has built up a trusting relationship with the growers, acting in our best interest when allocating and sending our fruit to market agents.