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The process of globalisation has impacted heavily on the horticultural industry. Australian producers are competing in their own markets with producers from countries where it costs much less to grow and pack their fruit and vegetables.
These pressures have made it important for Australian producers to innovate in both the way they grow their crops and in finding new ways to get the best price for all of their produce.
In response to these pressures, the Department of Agriculture and Food, at a State level, has suggested an overall direction for the development of the food industry, an industry sector that adds value to primary products.
Food Trail
With the growing interest in food tourism, the GDC, in partnership with the Gascoyne Growers Market, is developing a Food Trail that will direct both locals and tourists to where they can buy fruit, vegetables or seafood direct from the producer, as well as to hospitality outlets that use predominantly local produce.
Grower’s, seafood companies and hospitality outlets have been invited to market existing plantation cafes, restaurants tours, shops or roadside stalls that maintain a local focus, through the Food Trail brochure.
Marketing and Promotion
The GDC has become active in assisting Carnarvon growers to “value add” to their product. The Commission is annually involved in marketing initiatives such as producer tasting events and the Taste of the Gascoyne culinary showcase.
Use of seconds
Many growers are looking for an alternative income stream for their seconds fruit and vegetables. The GDC is conducting research into industrial processes that could value add for the producer and develop products either for sale or for use in the broader food industry. The GDC will sponsor food technologists and other industry experts to both guide and teach through this process.