Shepard avocados back in season

Despite the ongoing horticulture labour shortages, our farmers are still working hard to bring their fresh, nutritious produce to market. And in great news for avo-lovers, the Shepard avocado harvest is currently in full swing. More than 70 million Shepard avocados are expected to hit shelves for a limited time only, between now and May.

Known for their green, glossy skin, Shepard avocados have a rich nutty flavour, buttery texture. They’re slightly firmer than the Hass avocado, which is the most commonly available avocado in Australia. Even when ripe, Shepard avocados keep their lovely bright green colour. They also don’t turn brown when you cut them open.

“Nowhere else in the world produces this uniquely Australian variety of the avocado”, says Mathew Dwyer, Group Marketing Manager, Hort Innovation. “There’s never been a better time than right now to shop locally and support Aussie farmers.”

Shepards are Australia’s “Aussiest” avo

New research released as part of the Shepard harvest announcement highlights that many Aussies are actively seeking out quality Australian-grown produce. However, the majority (80%) of us are unaware that Shepard avocados are a uniquely Australian product. They’re grown only in Queensland in the Atherton Tablelands and Bundaberg.

Shepard avocado growers Sam and Kylie Collins of Blushing Acres say they’re surprised a majority of Aussies aren’t aware of Shepard avocado’s unique Australian history. They encourage everyone to try this season’s Shepards, which are so rich in flavour. 

“We’ve been growing Shepard avocados for generations in Australia,” Kylie says. “We’re proud to call them uniquely ours.”

The couple hopes that Australians will consider add Shepards to their favourite meals.

“We’ve been working hard to bring Aussies this year’s bumper crop,” Sam says. “The new season promises the same great quality avocados people know and love.”

Celebrity chef Luke Hines releases Shepard recipes 

To celebrate the Shepard avocado season, best-selling cookbook author, clean eating foodie and self-proclaimed Shepard avocado-lover Luke Hines has developed a series of delicious recipes to inspire and educate consumers on how to best use our Aussiest avo. 

“Nothing is smoother, creamier or more versatile than the Shepard avocado,” Hines says. “I’ve been a huge fan of them for years. They’re great to slice, dice or even smoothie.

“Every year when Shepard avos are in season I race out and grab a bunch. I can’t wait to get back into the kitchen to trial new and classic avocado-inspired recipes.”

Hines’ recipes will be available at australianavocados.com.au