One of Victoria’s most loved regional businesses, Kookas Country Cookies, is set to expand with important funding being delivered by the Andrews Labor Government.
With the expansion, Kookas will relocate within Donald to a larger facility in a win for the Wimmera, local jobs and the Victorian economy.
The Labor Government is supporting the iconic company’s $1.7 million investment through its Regional Jobs Fund.
The grant will contribute to the company’s new site, which will include an extra production line and an area for making gluten free biscuits – creating 11 new full-time jobs, increasing employment to 28 jobs.
The new facility will include an additional amenities block and maintenance shed, and will feature energy saving technology.
Donald has a population of around 1,500 and not only is Kooka’s an important employer, it is a key tourism attraction for the town.
Kooka’s was established in 1990 and is owned by 15 shareholders, the majority of whom live in Donald.
The Labor Government is supporting projects like Kooka’s Country Cookies through the $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, which funds critical infrastructure, creates jobs, investing in communities and supporting new and emerging industries.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Kookas is an icon in regional Victoria and they are a small business success story we are so proud to support.”
“Last year we launched a vocal campaign calling on the major retailers to prioritise Kookas and Victorian made produce – I am so pleased these local jobs are protected and now growing.”
“Not only is the funding in the new facility going to open the business to new markets, and increase financial turnover, it will create 11 new jobs for this local business – that is fabulous news.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020