A new mechanical banana harvester design however aims to gather banana plant stalks as well.

That’s because the machine will not only be harvesting banana bunches but also material for banana paper.

Papyrus Australia Ltd last week announced the successful development of the new mechanical banana harvester.

The idea was developed as part of the logistics to support the Papyrus Banana Veneer Manufacturing process which will see the establishment of a plant in Walkamin to turn banana stalks into paper and decorative veneers.

The Papyrus team, led by managing director Ramy Azer, designed and manufactured a series of innovative prototypes working closely with banana farmers.

The latest version has been successfully tested and accepted by the Mt Uncle Plantation owners.

The harvester head is attached to a commercially available articulated loader.

There are currently no images of the harvester but it has been described as a compact unit with an articulated arm which grips the tree.

This combination allows the operator the flexibility to maneuver easily and accurately cut the trunk directly beneath the banana bunch and transfer it to a fruit trailer.

A subsequent cut of the remaining trunk provides the resource required by the Papyrus technology for transport on a billet trailer to the conversion facility.

A provisional patent has been lodged by Papyrus.

Mr Azer said the company had already fielded interest for the harvesters from international partners.

Dr David Wyatt, Papyrus chairman said it was a significant development as it creates further valuable intellectual property for the company.

“It is a complementary business that supports our core business and provides a further reason for banana plantations to work with Papyrus,” Dr Wyatt said.

“The Company is currently working on strategies to commercialise this harvester including licensing.”