A unique tropical fruit has commanded an impressive sum at a recent auction held during a Far North Queensland festival. The annual Feast of the Senses festival, held in Innisfail over a four-day period, brought together hundreds of enthusiasts to celebrate and sample the region’s extraordinary array of exotic produce. The event culminated in its much-anticipated signature auction, where over 100 different fruit varieties were presented, either as individual specimens or as part of carefully curated selections.
This year, the highest bid was achieved by a single specimen of durio graveolens, a rare fruit that commanded a price of $200. This particular fruit, distinguished by its vibrant orange-to-red flesh, is a member of the renowned durian family, often hailed as the “king of fruits.” However, it offers a flavour profile that diverges from the more commonly known durian.
Gareth Hamilton-Foster, the president of the Cassowary Coast Rare Fruit Club, explained that a segment of dedicated enthusiasts are more than willing to invest significant amounts for the opportunity to explore novel and unusual tastes.
“The durio graveolens is roughly the size of a grapefruit,” Mr. Hamilton-Foster elaborated. “It’s a spiky fruit, and its flavour can range from notes of caramel to peanut butter, with a texture and flesh that’s quite custardy.” He added with a smile, “People genuinely go wild for some of these rare fruits.”
The diverse range of fruits showcased at the festival originated from various locations across the region, spanning from Tully in the south up to the lush environs of Cape Tribulation in the north.
“The atmosphere is fantastic because we’re keen to see growing interest in rare fruits,” Mr. Hamilton-Foster commented. “It also serves to attract people from far and wide, whether they’re from other countries or simply from closer to home.” He continued, “This event shines a spotlight on rare fruits and the dedicated farmers who cultivate them. We have people travelling from all over the globe just to witness our rare fruit displays.”
Importantly, all proceeds generated from the auction are channelled back into the Rare Fruit Club. These funds are then strategically utilised to bolster local businesses and provide support to the region’s farmers.
Tropical Delights and Community Spirit
Robyn Tesch, a seasoned tropical fruit grower, highlighted the significant positive impact of dedicating a day to honour and celebrate local farmers. She described it as a source of immense community positivity.
“It’s about experiencing a bit of joy and recognising that these beautiful products exist,” Ms. Tesch enthused. “It’s a chance to focus on and discuss something purely enjoyable, offering a welcome respite from the everyday concerns.”
Dave Jenson, who served as the treasurer and manager for this year’s Feast of the Senses, confirmed that the festival offered a rich tapestry of activities and numerous stalls for attendees to explore.
“I believe this event holds immense importance, not only for showcasing the incredible tropical fruits that thrive in this part of Australia but also for celebrating the broader community,” Mr. Jenson stated. “This includes everything from the fresh seafood sourced from our reef to the diverse range of other agricultural crops cultivated throughout this area.”
He also noted the festival’s enduring legacy. “The Feast of the Senses is now 23 years old, and it has never been cancelled, with the sole exception being during the COVID-19 pandemic. Regardless of the weather – be it rain, hail, or shine – the festival goes ahead.”
The event serves as a vital platform for connecting consumers with the unique produce of the region, fostering an appreciation for the hard work of local growers, and contributing to the economic vitality of the Far North Queensland community. The diverse range of fruits, from the familiar to the exceptionally rare, offers a sensory journey that captivates both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers alike. The success of the auction, particularly the high bid for the durio graveolens, underscores the growing interest and value placed on these distinctive tropical treasures.
