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Hop industry statistics from 2004
Summary
Anecdotal evidence suggests the industry profile has changed little
since the previous profile compiled in 1996, however AG Census data
shows the number of farms has decreased from 12 to 6 and production
has significantly decreased. According to Australian Hop Marketers,
there are 6 growers in the region. The largest is Rostrevor Hop Gardens
with 140 hectares of hops. The remaining 5 growers have a total of
60 hectares of hops.
North East Region |
1996-97 AG Census |
2000-01 AG Census |
2001-02 AG Survey |
Gross value of production |
$2,057,418 |
$2,202,249 |
$2,454,198 |
Current production volume (measurement in
brackets) |
648,823 |
480,431 |
520,332.0 |
Total area of production |
288 |
170 |
154 |
Contribution to Victorian GVP of commodity |
100% |
100% |
|
Contribution to Australian GVP of commodity |
18.3% |
19.5% |
|
Estimated number of farms |
12 |
6 |
2 |
Source: ABS Agricultural Census – 1997 and 2001, Agricultural
Survey 2002
Hops industry overview
The primary product is the hop cone or flower that contains yellow
lupulin - the active ingredient used for the production of beer.
The hops are pelleted at several sites in the region.
Location of the hops industry within the AlpValleys region
2001 Ag Census |
% of GVP |
% of farms for
commodity (1997) |
% of farms for
commodity |
North East Region |
Victoria |
North East Region |
Victoria |
North East Region |
Victoria |
Alpine Shire |
92.3% |
92.3% |
70.3% |
70.3% |
63.8% |
63.81% |
Wangaratta (RC) |
7.7% |
7.7% |
29.7% |
29.7% |
36.1% |
36.13% |
Source: ABS Agricultural Census 2001
Projected hops industry growth
Source |
Indicator |
Comments |
(ABS) AG Census and survey data |
Growth in production volume 1997 to 2001 |
Production declined by 7% from 1997 to 2001,
but the Agriculture survey data for 2001–02 indicates
that production increased since then, by 11%. |
Source: ABS Agricultural Census – 1997 and 2001, Agricultural
Survey 2002
Hops strategic advantages and opportunities
- Ideal growing conditions, with mild to warm summers, cool to
cold winters, and deep, fertile soils close to major rivers for
irrigation.
- Boutique beers.
Hops strategic disadvantages and impediments to growth
- Approx 60% is exported. Therefore the industry is very dependent
on world markets, which are currently experiencing a decline.
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