A family-run Riverland orchard known for its sun-dried figs and quinces has been named among Australia’s best food producers, with Singing Magpie Produce taking home a major national award.
The Monash producer received the Artisan Award at the 2026 delicious. Harvey Norman Produce Awards, announced at a ceremony at Aria restaurant in Sydney on Tuesday night.
Singing Magpie Produce was the only South Australian business among the 10 national winners, following a strong showing that saw five SA producers reach the national finals. Woodside Cheese Wrights, Nomad Farms, Cape Calamari and Goolwa Pipi Co were also shortlisted across the Dairy, Paddock and Sea categories.
The win adds another national accolade to Singing Magpie Produce, which grows and produces premium sun-dried fruit and gourmet products from the Heward family orchard on Erawirung Country.
Returned soldier Amos ‘Jack’ Heward planted the orchard in Monash during the 1920s. Today, the property includes around 1,000 fig trees, 200 quince trees, 50 pecan trees and wine grapes.
After spending almost three decades travelling and building her career, Sue Heward returned to the Riverland with her partner Mark and their young daughter in 2016. Singing Magpie Produce launched the following year.
The business began with semi-dried figs and quinces before expanding its range to include sticky quince syrup, chocolate-enrobed fruit, fig and quince products and gift boxes showcasing produce from across the Riverland.
Its fruit is hand-picked and naturally dried in the Riverland sun without additives, helping extend the short fig season while reducing food waste. The orchard also uses low-impact farming methods and supplies customers including Maggie Beer, Beerenberg and the Adelaide Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable Market.
Now in its 21st year, the Produce Awards recognise Australian farmers, growers, fishers and artisans for the quality of their produce, alongside their approach to sustainability, ethics and long-term land management.
“Seeing Australian producers get some of the recognition they deserve – but so rarely seek – is deeply humbling,” delicious. Content Director Krysia Bonkowski said.
A national judging panel featuring chefs Karena Armstrong, Jo Barrett, Lennox Hastie, Andrew McConnell, Matt Moran, Josh Niland, Alex Prichard, Matt Stone and Alla Wolf-Tasker AM selected the winners.
“Each year, I am excited by the quality of produce that we taste and humbled by the commitment and dedication of our Australian farmers,” Moran said.
The full list of winners will appear in a special delicious. lift-out in The Advertiser on Wednesday, August 5.
