Potatoes are one of Tasmania’s agricultural legacies.

We produce more potatoes than anyone else in Australia. We grow nearly one third of the national crop.
 
Our potatoes feed people across the nation. Grown right here in rich Tassie soil and tended to by Tassie farmers. Your neighbours, your father, your sister, your friends.
 
The potatoes you pick up off the shelf from the supermarket? They were grown just down the road. There’s not many places in Australia lucky enough to say that.
 
You can find potato crops in every corner of our state. From farms in Smithton right down to the Huon Valley, every region of Tasmania is part of the potato journey.

Potatoes Tasmania
Frequently Asked Questions

What is Potatoes Tasmania?

Potatoes Tasmania is a grower-led productivity group dedicated to improving the productivity, profitability and sustainability of Tasmania’s potato industry.

Who is involved in Potatoes Tasmania?

Our group isn’t just farmers. It’s made up of potato growers – both fresh and processed, land holders, industry professionals, seed farmers and supply chain partners. They’re all a part of shaping the future of this industry. By collaborating on key priorities, we aim to improve productivity, mitigate risks and develop the potato industry

Why was Potatoes Tasmania created?

Potatoes Tasmania is about giving our potato production ecosystem a voice; allowing them to address industry challenges and identifying growth opportunities. Iconic processors McCains and Simplot are also on board, and they’re committed to ongoing collaboration to drive the industry’s success.

What makes Potatoes Tasmania different?

Being truly grower-led, our organisation is the first of its kind for the potato industry in Tasmania. We have a unique position, representing all sectors of the industry. We also collaborate with other actors and influencers such as biosecurity, advocacy, and research and development corporations.

What is the vision of Potatoes Tasmania?

Our vision is to ensure the industry remains productive, profitable and sustainable, and to develop the industry by fostering collaboration.

How can I get involved or contact Potatoes Tasmania?

Here’s the part where you come in. Got a question or want to be a part of Potatoes Tasmania?

Head to the ‘Contact’ page and fill out the form. We’d love to have you on as part of our team.

Industry leadership, productivity and grower support

Industry leadership and representationRepresent growers, strengthen governance and financial oversight, support trade, collaborate with peak bodies, and lead biosecurity preparedness across the sector.
Productivity across processing, fresh and seed potatoesBuild strong partnerships across the supply chain, support collaboration on shared productivity issues, and focus on seed quality, disease management, certification and market resilience.
Research, funding and industry developmentPursue grower-led research and extension, establish an industry fund, secure additional funding, and provide practical support, tools, education and collaboration opportunities for growers.

News & Events

A History of Potatoes in Tasmania (Source: UTas)
Potatoes have thrived in Tasmanian soil since they were first planted from seed at Risdon Cove by Lieutenant Bowen in 1803, and in 1826 the Van Diemen’s Land Company…
Potatoes being inspected and weighed, 1912 (AOT, PH30/1/4936)
Further reading: N Barr & J Cary, Greening a brown land, Melbourne, 1992; Potato History Steering Committee, Tasmania’s potato history 1803–2003, Launceston, 2003.
New Industry Organisation Potatoes Tasmania Established
New grower-led potato industry group Potatoes Tasmania has appointed former agronomist Rob Salmon as general manager and his first month on the job has been…
Potatoes Tasmania general manager Rob Salmon meeting with Branxholm potato grower John Casswell in Launceston.

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