$30 million boost to Brisbane Markets
A $30 million state-of-the-art warehouse and commercial office building was officially opened at Brisbane Markets today, and will enable unprecedented levels of supply chain efficiency – according to Primary Industries and Fisheries Minister Tim Mulherin.”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,” Mr Mulherin added. “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,” Mr Mulherin said.
The development is a sign of things to come for the industry, according to Mr Mulherin. “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,” he stated. “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,” Mr Mulherin added. “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,” he suggested. “I congratulate Brisbane Markets Limited on the new South Gate Facility and their ongoing commitment to the wholesaling sector for fresh produce.”
