The Andrews Labor Government has helped create 33 new full time jobs in the Latrobe Valley with the expansion of a hydroponic tomato facility in Warragul.
Visiting Flavorite Tomatoes, Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan today announced the company’s $11.5 million expansion to boost jobs and export opportunities.
Flavorite has taken advantage of the Labor Government’s $10 million Latrobe Valley Economic Facilitation Fund – which is growing existing and future industries, creating jobs and attracting new investment.
With more than 320 employees, Flavorite is a major local employer in the region.
The company will build a 4.3 hectare glasshouse, fitted with heating, irrigation and infrastructure to produce high-quality hydroponic tomatoes and other vegetables. The glasshouse will use new environment control systems to increase production yields by 10 to 15 per cent
Construction of the glasshouse will also create up to 12 jobs.
Additional packaging equipment will help boost productivity so the business can maintain competitive prices in a challenging market.
Latrobe Valley businesses, local government and the community are encouraged to work with Regional Development Victoria, Gippsland, to discuss how their projects may fit within the $40 million Latrobe Valley Economic Development Program.
The Government will always put the people of the Latrobe Valley first by using our targeted funds to grow jobs, strengthen local industries and support new investment opportunities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“It’s a challenging time for the Latrobe Valley, and that’s why we’re supporting projects that create jobs and boost economic opportunities for our proud Gippsland communities.”
“We want to encourage more people to do business in the Valley and strengthen our world-class food and fibre sector.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Our Gippsland communities are world-renowned for their produce.”
“That’s why we’re supporting agribusinesses like Flavorite so they can expand their business, create jobs and boost their export potential.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“Flavorite is a major employer with a proud history in the Gippsland region, and it’s great to see them creating new jobs and expanding their business.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020