Ridley Agriproducts today opened its new mill facility in Lara with the help of an $800,000 grant from the Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund (GRIIF), which will bring more jobs to the region and boost agricultural stockfeed production.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development, Jaala Pulford joined Ridley Agriproducts Chief Executive Officer Tim Hart to inspect the new facility today in what is a boost for the local agriculture, freight and logistics industry.
Importantly, the project will create 20 direct jobs and an estimated 25 jobs throughout the freight and logistics supply chain.
The GRIIF was established following Ford Australia’s announcement that it would close its manufacturing operations in the Geelong region.
The Commonwealth and Victorian Government, together with Ford Australia and Alcoa of Australia, created GRIIF to support the workers, businesses and communities in the affected areas.
The company was awarded a grant during round two of the GRIIF for its $21 million investment to establish the new mill facility in Lara within the City of Greater Geelong.
The mill, worth more than $20 million, has a 250,000 tonne capacity and will manufacture animal stock feed in Lara which supports the expansion and growth of the poultry, pig and other animal industries in western Victoria by providing a local and cost effective supply of feed.
The Andrews Labor Government’s $46.5 million Automotive Transition Plan provides targeted assistance, programs and training for auto workers, businesses and local communities hardest hit by the recent Ford closure.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“This is great news for the region and local animal industries, from dairy farmers to egg producers.”
“The animal feed industry is a critical part of our $12 billion agricultural industry supply chain and we’re thrilled to see Ridley playing an even bigger role.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“We’re leading the way to create job opportunities and drive economic growth across Geelong, with 21,500 new jobs created in the city since November 2014.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“The mill will create 20 new jobs in Lara and the entire Geelong region which is great news. We always stand up for our workers and this is no exception."
Reviewed 19 August 2020