MORE jobs, more produce, and more technology have flourished into fruition, backed by the completion of Flavorite Group’s new six-hectare glasshouse in Tatura, which was officially opened last week.
“We stand here in our new 60,000 square metre glasshouse surrounded by over 150,000 highly productive tomato plants, which will shortly deliver 4,000 tonne of great tasting and sustainably grown produce to consumers all over Australia,” said Flavorite Group CEO Mark Nichol.
“And in the process, increase employment in the Goulburn Valley region on this site to over 170 people, and we think that is worth celebrating.”
The glasshouse stands seven metres in height and uses world-leading technology to control every aspect of the environment. Having the means to control sunlight, water, carbon dioxide, temperature and pests ensures Flavorite can deliver premium fresh produce 12 months of the year.
The development was made possible through the State Government’s Regional Jobs Funds and Victorian Business Growth Fund, established in partnership with Aware Super and Spirit Super.
“Through our $250 million Growth Fund, we have effectively provided the opportunity to take an equity share and also to provide a low-interest loan. So, we’re effectively converting cash to an asset for the state, whether it be a loan or an equity share,” explained Treasurer Tim Pallas.
The Fund invests on Victorian businesses to expand their organisations, achieving better social and environmental outcomes and boosting jobs.
Treasurer Pallas said Victoria is now a bigger agricultural producer than Queensland, supported by agricultural projects of this nature.
“Victoria is three percent of the landmass of the nation, we now produce more agricultural produce than Queensland does, which is quite a stellar achievement,” he said.
“It also shows that we’re the food bowl of the nation, and the only way that we can maintain that reputation is through increasing ways of efficient delivery of agriculture.”
The latest construction takes Flavorite’s total production under glass from 58 hectares to 64 hectares, with plans for continued growth.
