<p></p><p>Bumper nut crops are set to deliver record profits for growers thanks to high prices in store despite industry increasing production dramatically in recent years.Increased demand has been driven by consumers turning to nuts for health properties, coupled with emerging Asian demand. Old and new players are now taking advantage of firm prices.In 2013-14 the industry's export value was over $650 million, and is now approaching $1 billion, according to Australian Nut Industry Council chief executive Jolyon Burnett.A perfect growing season has coincided with large swathes of new plantings maturing. Happily, record production has coincided with record prices."It has been one of those unusual seasons where the conditions have been right for almost every nut," Mr Burnett said. "To have rising supply and rising prices is a very rare occurrence, but that's what's happening." <br></p> <p>The majority of producers across the state find themselves in an enviable position among primary producers.Mr Burnett said nut growers had spared little expense, buoyed by the good season.The newfound demand has spurred new plantings, particularly of almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts, in southern NSW, northern Victoria and in South Australia.In northern NSW and southern Queensland many cane and tomato growers have made the switch the macadamias, Mr Burnett said.<br></p><p></p>