March 7, 2021 - A proposed new Agrifood hub based in the ACT has the potential to create hundreds of new jobs and assist Canberra's drive towards food sustainability. The project will have an integrated zero-waste production system and will be 100% solar powered. Freshford Food will have large-scale greenhouses, aquaculture, and vermiculture. Freshford food will also host a wide variety of artisan food and drink producers including cheesemakers, salami, cider and whiskey production.
Freshford Food Pty Ltd Managing Director Hamish Sinclair was commenting after he had updated the Member for Bean, David Smith MP on the specifics of the project. "The project will encompass an initial investment of $100 million, creating over 120 jobs and potential value to the ACT economy in excess of $390 million. The Hub will consist of an intensive fish farm operated by Uarah Fisheries, supplying Murray Cod fingerlings to the NSW, ACT and Victorian Governments, and an artisan hub focusing on the smaller food/beverage manufacturers and of course the local tourism opportunities provided by experiential tourism."
"The concept is an Agri-tech Food Hub, combining agriculture and innovation with food and tourism, supplying the city with locally sourced product in a sustainable way," he said. "What surprises local stakeholders is that innovation in the South has come out of the rural area. Our hub provides an opportunity to pivot the ACT economy and capitalise on its proximity to the Hume logistics centre and the airport."
Mr Sinclair continued "The benefits the Agrifood Hub brings are primarily to the south of Canberra, in terms of food production, employment, diversification of the local economy and an alternative tourism site, along with national interests in environmental restoration of the Murray-Darling fisheries."
Mr Sinclair reiterated the project was in keeping with current ESG investment parameters, encapsulating a triple bottom line approach, with acceptable returns on equity, accretion of social capital and an environmentally sustainable project through the use of renewable energy resulting in a lower carbon footprint.
Regional Development Australia (ACT) Chief Executive Officer Michael Claessens welcomed the project and could see the long-term benefits for the region. "Canberra needs a local sustainable food buffer and projects like this one are important steps in that direction. More plentiful, nutritious and affordable food is not just good for the community but will enhance our food security as well."
http://www.freshfordfood.com
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