2025 Donnybrook Apple Festival - Best Year Ever!

What a great celebration of the WA Pome Industry this Easter 2025

The Pomewest Team gathered at the vibrant Donnybrook Apple Festival on Easter Saturday, April 19. Thanks to the enthusiastic support of local growers, we showcased an impressive selection of nine varieties of apples, pears, and nashi. This event was a wonderful celebration of the rich diversity and vitality of Western Australia’s apple and pear industry, allowing festival-goers to experience firsthand the unique flavors and textures that our region has to offer.Many customers informed us that they were impressed by the quality of the fruit and its excellent storage ability in the fridge. They returned to this event specifically for our fruit stall, which is excellent feedback.

Jen Riseley, Susie, and Evelyn Murphy White alternated turns at the cutting board, enthusiastically offering delectable samples of various apple and pear varieties. With each slice, the Pomewest team encouraged festival-goers to engage in lively discussions about their personal experiences with pome fruit, sharing personal stories and revealing their top picks. At the bustling stall, Susie Murphy White and Evelyn White warmly greeted visitors, while Noelene from Fresh Finesse expertly managed the till, selling bags for customers to pick and pack their own special favourites and take home as delightful mementos of the festival. This year, sales soared by an impressive 30% compared to the previous year, with the proceeds supporting essential event coordination and the industry’s sponsorship efforts to the festival organisers.

Dazzle and Bravo apples emerged as the clear favorites among attendees, their crisp textures and rich flavors captivating palates. Meanwhile, the Piqa Boo Pears were highly sought after and quickly sold out, reaching the bottom of the barrel before the day’s end.

We are grateful, so thank you to:

A special thank you goes to the DPIRD Australian National Apple Breeding Program for providing exciting new ANABP selections for tastings, giving showgoers an exclusive glimpse into the future of apple breeding innovation.

Noteworthy mentions include Jason Jarvis, the enthusiastic Pomewest Chair, who spent the day conversing with attendees and sharing insights, as well as Sam Licciardello, a dedicated member of the Pomewest Committee, who engaged visitors with his expertise. Both growers had the opportunity to be interviewed by ABC Radio, using the platform to promote the festival and the vibrant Western Australian Apple and Pear Industry.

We also want to express our gratitude to the hardworking Pomewest staff and special friends: Nardia Stacy, Jen Riseley, Susie Murphy White, Evelyn White, Helen Bond, Noelene Swain, Vanessa Licciardello, Helen Cripps, and Karlee Reeves from Newton Orchards, for their unwavering support and dedication. Thank you for the generous grower donations that made this event possible!