Daryl Boardman (Sunnyspot Packhouse): We're inspired by new technologies all the time in our business, whether it be in the packing shed or on the farm.
Dr Juxi Leitner (LYRO Robotics): For this reason, we see a lot of applications where robots can improve the quality of life for farmers, growers, and also consumers.
Daryl Boardman (Sunnyspot Packhouse): Hi, I'm Daryl Boardman, Director of Sunnyspot Packhouse. We predominantly grow avocados and pack and market avocados. Staff is one of our biggest issues, whether it be in our packing shed or on our farms.
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) came to us with a start-up company called "LYRO" that had a robot capable of moving fruit from the machine into a box. We saw that as a great opportunity because staffing is always an issue, as people can get sick. This robot might be one way of alleviating some of those challenges we face.
Dr Juxi Leitner (LYRO Robotics): Today, here at Sunnyspot, we’ve deployed a robot that can pack avocados directly from the line into a cardboard box. The robot does this by combining computer vision, machine learning, and robotic grasping. It sees an avocado coming down the line, decides how to grasp it without damaging the fruit, picks it up, and places it perfectly into a cardboard box.
Even though today we’re packing avocados, the technology behind it isn’t limited to specific produce or items. It can pack avocados today and mangoes tomorrow.
Daryl Boardman (Sunnyspot Packhouse): From the avocado industry’s perspective, we’re a very progressive industry. Technology like this is valuable in times of disruption—whether it’s from natural disasters, employee illness, pandemics, or similar circumstances. This machine can continue working for us and help keep our business running.
Dr Juxi Leitner (LYRO Robotics): The future for robotics and AI is bright, especially in agriculture, where there are a lot of dirty, dull, and dangerous jobs—what we call the "Three Ds" in robotics.
We’re at the start of our robotics deployment journey and are looking forward to integrating more robotic systems to assist with tasks that require hand-eye coordination on a daily basis.
Daryl Boardman (Sunnyspot Packhouse): For other growers or businesses interested in exploring technology, my advice is to always keep an open mind. Some technology will work really well, and some won’t, but if you don't explore these opportunities, you’ll never know what may or may not benefit your operation.
Last updated: 10 Dec 2025