New venture will showcase unique Margaret River dairy produce

1/3/03
A new venture in Margaret River will see the region's unique dairy produce marketed to every corner of Australia and further into South-East Asia.
Agriculture Minister Kim Chance officially opened the Margaret River Dairy Company's White Mould Cheese Factory last night in Metricup.
The new factory for the production of mould-ripened cheese and other specialty dairy products has received assistance of $500,000 from the Western Australian Dairy Processing Industry Incentive Scheme.
The Dairy Processing Incentive Scheme was part of a $27million State restructuring package, which included grants to processors to increase WA's capacity to produce a diverse range of specialty products, especially for the export market.
The factory's produce will be distributed through an arrangement with Manassen Foods Australia, which has earned a reputation as a leading sales, marketing and food distributor of quality products.
"Manassen is committed to building on the original businesses developed in the Margaret River region and sees the Margaret River Dairy Company brand as a great partner to complement its quality product range," Mr Chance said.
"The company has been progressively replacing some of its imported products by manufacturing them in the Margaret River region under the guidance of European master cheese makers.
"The product range now includes world-class Camembert and Brie, as well as yoghurts and other cheese types.
"The specialist nature of the products from the Margaret River dairy company and the acknowledged distribution system of Manassen foods will ensure they reach every corner of Australia, as well as target destinations in South-East Asia.
"More importantly, it will provide many new jobs and skills in the Margaret River region."
The Dairy Processing Incentive Scheme was introduced to support the dairy industry during the difficult adjustment period following deregulation in July 2000.
"The dairy industry needs to develop high value products for premium markets, rather than becoming solely dependent upon commodity sales," Mr Chance said.
"A growing industry also requires new investment, new people and new ideas.
"Manassen Foods and the Margaret River Dairy Company are to be congratulated on their initiative, which is a fine example of the innovation and excellence that will revitalise our dairy industry."
Minister's office: 9213 6700