Australia: Victoria government invests in hydroponic glasshouse

As part of the $21.9 million landmark plan to create local jobs and secure Stawell's future, the Victorian Government announced this month financial backing for the Frewstal abattoir expansion – now in the final stages of construction – safeguarding more than 450 existing jobs, and creating 30 new jobs for local community members.

In further support of affected workers from the closed Stawell gold mine, the government also announced a multi-million dollar investment in the new Nectar Farms site to help create 70 new jobs.

The government will use funds from the $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Funds to support the Nectar Farms development. As a brand new industry sector to the region, the new site will use the latest in hydroponic glasshouse and plant technology to increase yields and provide a reliable supply of vegetables into domestic and international markets.

This opportunity has been enabled by the early 'post mining' site planning of the Northern Grampians Council and the generous provision of land and planning from Kirkland Gold.