From Cider Australia
Researcher and cider apple orchardist David Pickering from Huntley, NSW passed away last Friday.
David was a highly regarded expert on cider apples with a passion for educating and connecting people.
President of Cider Australia Warwick Billings said David was a true champion of the industry and his work leaves an enduring mark on the Australian cider community.
“We are indebted to David for his stewardship of the industry over many years. From sharing his wisdom on growing cider apples or making cider to cuttings from his cider apple orchard, David always turned up with a smile,” said Warwick.
David was instrumental in the establishment of industry body Cider Australia and the Australian Cider Awards more than a decade ago and had continued to be an important member of the Awards organising team.
The technical advice he generously provided to many current and prospective cider apple growers and the unique resources he created and shared through his website CiderOz have benefited the industry greatly.
The Australian cider community extends its condolences to David’s wife Wendy and to his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his kindness, generosity, positivity, good humour and inventiveness. We were lucky to know him.