News and updates

Keep up to date with what's happening with CSI.

Succulents

A fresh chapter begins grafting for the future at Mannus

It is an exciting time at Mannus CSI Agriculture Orchard as we embark on a transformative journey to future proof our operations and meet the evolving demands of the apple market. On October 7th, 2025, we officially launched our grafting program, marking a significant milestone in our orchard’s growth and sustainability.

In the ever-changing world of horticulture, staying relevant is key. Many older apple varieties no longer meet market demand, making them commercially unviable. Grafting allows us to rejuvenate our orchard by replacing outdated varieties with those that are in high demand ensuring our produce remains competitive and valuable.

At the heart of this program is the Alvina Gala, a vibrant, market favoured variety known for its crisp texture and sweet flavour. This new apple is being grafted onto existing rootstock, replacing an older variety that no longer holds commercial value. Once mature, these trees will produce fruit that can be sold directly to markets, opening up new opportunities.

By the numbers:

  • Grafting start date: October 7, 2025
  • Total trees to be grafted: 4,071
  • Time to commercial harvest: approximately 36 months
  • Expected yield: around 80 apples per tree per year

That is over 325,000 apples annually once the trees reach full production!

This initiative is more than just an agricultural upgrade; it is a powerful rehabilitation and education opportunity. Each day, 25 inmates are employed at the orchard, gaining hands-on experience in modern horticultural practices. Grafting a tree takes just 3 minutes, but the skills and confidence gained can last a lifetime.

Through this program, participants are not only contributing to a thriving orchard but also building valuable skills that support their reintegration into the community.

Orchard tree with new grafting

Rebuilding together - inmates contribute to Northern Rivers recovery.

NSW Public Works managed the delivery of the temporary housing program following the unprecedented floods in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales in 2022.   CSI Modular Buildings was a key partner in delivering 165 modular homes.

Latest updates

CSI was honoured to receive a heartfelt thank you from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service
Our latest collection of round ottomans is a beautiful testament to that philosophy.
We’re proud CSI Engineering teams have created metal Blue Trees to support this initiative.
Did you know CSI works with both public and private sector organisations?
The Australian Aboriginal flag stands as a powerful symbol of cultural identity and resilience.
A new literacy program is changing lives, offering inmates a second chance at education.
Looking for a new challenge?

Keen to know more about being a Trade Overseer at CSI?  Click here to find out more.

News and updates

CSI drivers go the extra mile

Read more on how CSI ensures delivery of essential items is a non-negotiable responsibility,

Mentors are important

Read how mentors have been the driving force offering guidance, sharing wisdom, and providing encouragement during life’s most challenging moments.

Aboriginal art notebook a sellout success!

Our exclusive Aboriginal art notebooks have completely sold out!

Education creates change

When we have an inmate student who goes the extra mile, hear how the CSI team become very proud

That's a lot of meals

Read how CSI Food Services is responsible for providing meals for 10,000 people in custody every day

The beloved Granny Smith apple!

Read how CSI has an operational orchard at Mannus where people in custody are trained in orchard harvesting.

Work Release creates opportunity

Read more on the program proven to be a great transition for people in custody .

The benefits of wooden chopping boards

Whether you are a professional chef or a home chef, read why chopping boards are an essential in any kitchen!

Facilities maintenance and beyond

Read more on how CSI Facilities Maintenance are playing a key role in maintaining buildings and equipment

Handmade Australian National Flag

CSI Textiles, one of our standout products is the Australian National Flag, meticulously handcrafted

CSI delivers for the Northern Territory

NT Correctional Services needed additional accommodation in Alice Springs, and quick!

When a team works together

Read more on how the South Coast Correctional Centre worked as a team to design, build and construct a new reception counter.

On the road again

Read how the CSI Logsitics team has a mammoth task to deliver essentials to Correctional Centre 

New product!

Read more on how CSI created  unique plush toys based on real dogs in the K9 unit.

Kirkconnell and daffodils

Check out how the team have created a niche for themselves with the local community in daffodils.

Sheep shearing at Mannus

CSI Agriculture is playing a vital role in providing real world experience in sheep shearing.  Check out the story.

Girrawaa Creative Arts Centre

Hear more about the local college commissioning a design from an artist at Girrawaa.

Last updated: