New $1.5m project seeks to assist Limestone Coast farmers in producing and storing diverse grains
The South Australian government has awarded TE Storage and Logistics $250,000 to increase grain storage options in the Limestone Coast.
Stemming from the State Government Regional Development Fund, the contribution will go to the grain and fertiliser storage and logistics company’s $1.5 million project to modify its grain handling and storage processes to cater for diverse markets, regional development minister Geoff Brock says.
“This project will increase the company’s storage capacity allowing for greater segregation of local premium grain,” Brock says.
“The Naracoorte-based company will be able to achieve higher returns and cater for niche markets through this segregation capability.”
The funding will contribute towards the “installation of bespoke storage system providing sealable gas tight containers for storage,” TE Storage and Logistics owner and director Tom Hage says.
“This specialised infrastructure will ensure the quality and integrity of the grain is maintained,” he says.
“It will also support crop diversification for farmers in the region to grow and supply premium varieties of barley for domestic and international beer production.”
Pointing to the local benefits for farmers and job opportunities in the supply chain, Brock says the project “has the potential to provide a significant economic boost for the area and is supporting South Australia’s economic priorities of Premium food and wine.”
“Five new jobs will be created through this project, in addition to 14 jobs during construction, but the benefits reach beyond this, to farmers, transporters, local businesses and all along the supply chain.
“This new storage will particularly play a significant role in increasing the production and supply of South Australian malt barley to brewing, distilling and food manufacturing business around the world.”