The Business of Agribusiness

Published on 08 May 2015

An industry event in Loddon Shire next month will look opportunity square in the face.

“The Business of Agribusiness” will be hosted by the Shire and the Central Victorian Agribusiness Forum on June 2 at Newbridge recreation reserve clubrooms.

Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

The event will be a one-day seminar with a list of 10 speakers headed by Victorian Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford.

Other speakers will include Loddon Shire Mayor Cr Gavan Holt, Victorian Farmers Federation president Peter Tuohey, Andrew Smith from Rural Finance and Tom Russo, of Elders Ltd.

Organisers are aiming to identify and build on growth opportunities, offer insights on local and foreign investment and share some notable success stories.

The day is specifically designed for producers, shire representatives, agribusiness managers, industry people, individuals and organisations seeking funding and investment ideas and lending advisers.

Other presenting organisations include Kilter Rural, Hazeldene’s, ScatoPlus, Alkira Organics and Lim Investment Advisory.

CVAF executive officer Martin Szakal said the event was a follow-up to the Food Boom Summit held in Bendigo last winter.

“Two of the results from that summit were increased collaboration with local shires and a need for greater insights into investment opportunities,” Mr Szakal said.

“Loddon stepped forward with funding and a commitment of time and energy to help make this new event happen.

“The day will focus on local businesses, growth through investment and improving the value-chain in the region, which is estimated to be worth $3.2 billion.

“It’s about value-adding, investment, innovation and entrepreneurism.

“We thought Newbridge was ideal as a venue, with the $3 million rebuild of its recreation reserve clubrooms under flood reconstruction funding providing us with a top-class facility.”

Loddon Shire’s Director, Economy and Community, Bryan McEwan, said the planned seminar was a coup for both Loddon Shire and the region.

“It will create the opportunity for the agribusiness sector to focus on what is happening now both locally and internationally – and provide a clear vision for the future,” he said.

“It sees local government again partnering with industry to strengthen the sector and build on the kinds of strategic partnerships that will boost wealth and jobs in our region.”

The Central Victorian Agribusiness Forum’s agenda is focused on supporting agribusinesses in the Gannawarra, Loddon, Central Goldfields, Campaspe and Mount Alexander Shires and the City of Greater Bendigo.

Cost is $55 and tickets can be booked online. Go to www.cvaf.webs.com or www.trybooking.com/123568

For more details, phone Martin Szakal on 0421 324 509.