Australia’s leading banana grower is right here in Queensland, a fourth-generation 75 year family farming operation called Mackay’s.

How important is the banana industry to us ‘banana benders’ here in Queensland?

4ZZZ’s Eliot Rifkin and Toni Pankaluic is Brent Wilson the group agronomy manager at Mackay’s Bananas to chat about all things bananas.

For a deep dive… 

Want to learn more about Australia's banana industry? Brent recommends the following:

• Australian Banana Growers' Council, Inc


• Better Bananas - National Banana Development and Extension Program


• Mackay's Bananas

The Queensland Government has identified the pests and diseases affecting the banana industry. A notable example in South East Queensland is the Banana bunchy top disease. If you see it, then contact the hotline on 1800 068 371. 

Need some tips on backyard bananas? Find out how to grow them and that you have the correct requirements. One thing to keep in mind is that bananas don't grow on trees, they're herbs! You can learn about the difference in the terminology of bananas here.

Finally here are some websites with fun facts and general information about all things bananas!