Understanding the Diversity of Agriculture in the NSW Riverina

05/01/2026

Coach tour groups appreciate hearing local farmers talk about their industries, and “picking their own” fruit in season. Some citrus is picked in every month of the year but the main harvest season is during the winter months.

The NSW Riverina is one of Australia’s most productive agricultural regions. Located in southern New South Wales, it is known for its broadacre farming systems, irrigation networks and a wide variety of crops and livestock industries.

Across the Riverina, farms produce an impressive range of agricultural commodities. Current harvesting activities include rice, cotton, maize, soybeans, vegetables, melons, almonds, wine grapes, citrus, walnuts, plums and sweet corn.

This diversity reflects both the region’s climate and its well developed irrigation infrastructure. Irrigation allows farmers to grow crops that would otherwise struggle in Australia’s naturally dry climate.

Processing and Agricultural Industry

The Riverina is not only a farming region but also an important processing hub. In the Leeton district alone, visitors can find:

  • fruit juice factories
  • almond and walnut processors
  • cattle abattoirs
  • rice mills
  • wineries
  • malting facilities
  • citrus packing sheds
  • vegetable packing operations

These industries connect local farms to domestic and international food markets.

Learning Through Agricultural Tours

Agricultural Tours Riverina introduces visitors to these industries through carefully designed study tours. Guests may visit farms, processing facilities and research organisations to better understand how Australian agriculture operates.

For visitors from overseas, these tours often provide a fascinating comparison between farming systems in Australia and those in their home countries.

If you would like to see the diversity of Riverina agriculture first hand, Agricultural Tours Riverina can arrange farm visits and industry tours that showcase the region’s major crops, irrigation systems and processing industries. Contact us to discuss a customised tour program.