Through the Regional Jobs Fund, support has been provided to the company to attract an overall investment of $10 million and create 52 new full-time-equivalent jobs at Tatura.
The new jobs include managers, supervisors, pickers, packers, grafters and propagator roles.
It is estimated that the construction phase of the project created up to 20 jobs (builders, concreters, plumbers, electricians, welders and equipment installation), as well as contract work for engineering, land-forming and transport businesses.
Tatura Fresh is part of the Murphy Fresh group which has another facility in Mansfield, which has been operating since 1998.
The project included an additional 41,000 square metres of glasshouse and an extension of 1,300 square metres to the existing packing hall and the installation of a new packing line.
The Victorian Government is supporting projects like Tatura Fresh’s through the $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, which focusses on building critical infrastructure, creating jobs, investing in communities and supporting new and emerging industries.
Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp MP said: “Today’s announcement is great news for Tatura Fresh, the Goulburn Valley and indeed Victoria. Jobs will be created in construction and when operational. They will be local jobs. This investment will put food on the table for local families.”
“The Andrews Government is investing in regional Victoria and in horticulture. Today’s announcement further cements the Goulburn Valley’s position as the food bowl of Australia”.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford added: “The Victorian Government has worked closely with Tatura Fresh to facilitate the investment in the expansion of the hydroponic tomato propagation facility.”
“Not only is Tatura Fresh’s expansion expected to attract $10 million investment to the business, it has created 52 new jobs which is great news for locals.”
“Investment in regional Victoria is vital to ensure it continues to be a prosperous place to live, work and do business”.