Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford today joined locals in Ballarat for the Regional World’s Longest Lunch event as part of the official opening of the 2016 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival.
Hosted at Ballarat’s Jackson's & Co restaurant, the Longest Lunch event was one of 24 lunches that took place across regional Victoria to showcase the state’s top quality food and wine products.
Almost 90 guests sat on the recently restored balcony where they were treated to a variety of locally produced dishes while listening to chefs and local winemakers talk about the diverse range of quality produce home to the region.
Western Victoria’s regional economy is underpinned by farming industries and manufacturing such as food processing, and is a major contributor to the states booming $11.6 billion food and fibre sector.
Strong growth and demand for high quality food products in Asia presents an opportunity for Western Victoria’s agriculture industries and food manufacturing sector.
The Andrews Labor Government is committed to advancing local produce and helping Victorian farmers grow their domestic and international market potential.
The Labor Government is also delivering a $1 million wine industry package which includes the Wine Industry Ministerial Advisory Committee, the Wine Industry Development Strategy and the upcoming Wine Growth Fund.
The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (4-13 March 2016), is Australia’s internationally acclaimed celebration of food and wine.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“I am proud to be in Ballarat today to celebrate our farmers, the producers and skilled chefs that make paddock to plate come together.”
“The food and wine industry is key to growing regional communities, creating jobs and boosting our tourism and export market.”
“The Andrews Labor Government will continue to support the food and fibre industry to deliver the jobs of the future.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020