THE strong agricultural, cultural and economic links between the Netherlands and the Goulburn Valley were highlighted during a two-day visit to the region by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Australia, Her Excellency Mrs Ardi Stoios-Braken.
Hosted by Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell, the visit showcased the significant contribution Dutch families and businesses continue to make across the electorate, particularly in agriculture, horticulture, dairy, food manufacturing and regional education.
Mr Birrell said the Dutch community had played an important role in shaping the region for generations.
“The Dutch community has been part of the fabric of this region for decades, and what they have built here is extraordinary,” he said.
“From dairy farms and glasshouses to orchards and food manufacturing, Dutch families and businesses have brought world-class knowledge, enterprise and a genuine commitment to our region.”
Mr Birrell said the visit also provided an opportunity to strengthen knowledge sharing between Australia and the Netherlands, particularly in agriculture, water management and food production.
The Ambassador toured several Dutch-linked businesses and organisations, including protected cropping, dairy, horticulture and food manufacturing operations. Visits included Aussie Pride Produce near Tallygaroopna, Toorangie Pastoral near Numurkah, Katunga Fresh, Seeka Australia in Bunbartha and Noumi, highlighting the region’s strong agricultural capability and export connections with the Netherlands.
The delegation also visited Daimler Truck Shepparton, met with the Committee for Greater Shepparton (C4GS) to discuss investment and economic growth, and attended the launch of the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project Food Ladder initiative at Gowrie Street Primary School.
Other stops included the Shepparton Education First Youth Foyer, Shepparton Art Museum and a gathering with members of the local Dutch community at Emerald Bank.
Mr Birrell said the visit reinforced the importance of international partnerships and the contribution Dutch families continue to make to regional Victoria.
“Nicholls is one of the most culturally diverse electorates in regional Australia and that diversity is one of our greatest strengths,” he said.
