Published Tuesday, 23 September, 2008 at 10:57 AM
Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
Queensland celebrates new $30 million facility at Brisbane Markets
Primary Industries and Fisheries Minister Tim Mulherin welcomed Brisbane Markets’ new South Gate East facility as a further boost to Queensland horticulture at today’s official opening.
Mr Mulherin said the $30 million state-of-the-art warehouse and commercial office building is a substantial investment that will enable unprecedented levels of supply chain efficiency.
“The growth of Queensland’s horticulture sector increased the need for a larger, more efficient storage facility located in the Brisbane Markets complex,” Mr Mulherin said.
“This new development will support the entire Queensland horticulture industry which delivers its produce daily to Brisbane Markets.
“It will be responsible for handling a major portion of the state’s produce on its way to consumers in Queensland, Australia and the world.
“It’s an important achievement for Queensland which currently contributes $1.94 billion in horticulture to the state’s economy, making it our second largest primary producer.
“And the opportunities for further growth are significant – the worldwide food shortage and the growing demand for quality, nutritious food mean that Queensland is ideally positioned to boost its international exports.
“Queensland’s diverse geography and climate gives us an extended supply window for more than 120 horticultural products, which is very attractive to overseas markets seeking year-long supply.
“The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries is investing in research, trade and industry development activities to accelerate industry growth and capitalise on these market opportunities.
“As part of the Bligh’s Government’s Q2 vision, we are committed to creating a diverse economy powered by bright ideas.
“To achieve this, we are taking a Fresh Approach to service delivery and will be working in partnership with industry to ensure Queensland remains at the forefront of modern, innovative agribusiness.
“We recently expanded the focus of our Asian Markets for Horticulture Initiative to embrace a global marketplace across Queensland primary industries.
“This will carry forward our successes in achieving direct market access for mandarins and mangoes to China, and target the lucrative markets of Europe and the Americas.
“We will continue to work with industry members across the supply chain to ensure quality control and build industry capacity.
“I congratulate Brisbane Markets Limited on the new South Gate Facility and their ongoing commitment to the wholesaling sector for fresh produce,” he said.
Media: 3239 6530
Mr Mulherin said the $30 million state-of-the-art warehouse and commercial office building is a substantial investment that will enable unprecedented levels of supply chain efficiency.
“The growth of Queensland’s horticulture sector increased the need for a larger, more efficient storage facility located in the Brisbane Markets complex,” Mr Mulherin said.
“This new development will support the entire Queensland horticulture industry which delivers its produce daily to Brisbane Markets.
“It will be responsible for handling a major portion of the state’s produce on its way to consumers in Queensland, Australia and the world.
“It’s an important achievement for Queensland which currently contributes $1.94 billion in horticulture to the state’s economy, making it our second largest primary producer.
“And the opportunities for further growth are significant – the worldwide food shortage and the growing demand for quality, nutritious food mean that Queensland is ideally positioned to boost its international exports.
“Queensland’s diverse geography and climate gives us an extended supply window for more than 120 horticultural products, which is very attractive to overseas markets seeking year-long supply.
“The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries is investing in research, trade and industry development activities to accelerate industry growth and capitalise on these market opportunities.
“As part of the Bligh’s Government’s Q2 vision, we are committed to creating a diverse economy powered by bright ideas.
“To achieve this, we are taking a Fresh Approach to service delivery and will be working in partnership with industry to ensure Queensland remains at the forefront of modern, innovative agribusiness.
“We recently expanded the focus of our Asian Markets for Horticulture Initiative to embrace a global marketplace across Queensland primary industries.
“This will carry forward our successes in achieving direct market access for mandarins and mangoes to China, and target the lucrative markets of Europe and the Americas.
“We will continue to work with industry members across the supply chain to ensure quality control and build industry capacity.
“I congratulate Brisbane Markets Limited on the new South Gate Facility and their ongoing commitment to the wholesaling sector for fresh produce,” he said.
Media: 3239 6530