Up here in Mareeba we have had a pretty big few weeks! We had a lot of backpackers join the picking and packing teams. One thing I have to say is that I do admire these young people that decide to work around other countries so they can travel. For a lot of the backpackers, coming from jobs ranging from the professional end of the spectrum to farmers themselves, a large majority of them jump right in and exhaust themselves. It doesn't take long for them to look at our base staff with a certain amount of respect.
When we have a Piñata Mareeba Gold Pineapple cut up for them to all taste it all seems worth it! The fruit is so sweet they are soon taking another piece and quite a conversation follows about how they have never tasted a better pine! We had Mareeba Sweet pines come in from the field and as it has been a few months since they have been available another taste test was required. I have to say when the season, weather and general conditions are right a Mareeba Sweet is a very nice treat on a hot day. Working here has given me a new perspective on all fruit. If you know the effect of these conditions on fruit you can shop for the best products accordingly.
They say time flies when you having fun, it is my experience that it also flies when you are busy, luckily we have both up here. The odd laugh is a great tension breaker when the pressure is on!
Bye for now,
Deb McCulkin
Piñata North Queensland Dispatch Officer