Over 30 guests attended the launch of the Northern Valleys Agribusiness, a subcommittee of the Chittering Chamber of Commerce. Guests enjoyed a valuable chance to network with others interested in regional agribusiness over a complimentary glass of Bindoon Estate wine, while enjoying Gingin CU@Park’s hospitality.
Hon Shane Love MLA, provided congratulations and encouraging words for all to continue the pursuit of regional agribusiness and shared a personal experience which enlightened him to its value. Many years ago as the Deputy Shire President of Dandaragan, the then Shire President from Yarra Valley Council in Victoria included in her presentation the dollar value of agribusiness to the Yarra Valley. Shane was challenged to know what value agribusiness was to his shire. From then his eyes were opened to the economic potential that agribusiness offers to local communities.
Guest speaker Professor Mark Gibberd then proceeded to offer a presentation which provided the perfect foundations for the path forward. He suggested a great framework to understand the possible business and branding models, drawing on three examples; the legislative levy model (based on the Murray Valley Citrus market board, Sunraysia), the sexy intrinsic brand model (Margaret River Wine Association) as well as the extrinsic brand created through ambition and effort (Southern Forests). Having just returned from a review of the Southern Forest Food Council, he was able to provide us insight into its success and lessons learnt.
Mark offered inspiration and direction as well as practical on the ground advice. He demonstrated a rich understanding from technical agricultural skills and regional branding to the importance of people relationships within associations and how to manage for success. Mark’s presentation was recorded and the chamber will seek to create a transcript which I’m sure will become a reference point for the future. Juliet Grist, the Northern Valleys Agribusiness Chair invited all those present to come, or invite others to contribute to the first workshop discussion on July 10 at 6.30 -8.30pm in Bindoon. The meeting/workshop intends to develop the concept of
the vision and direction of Northern Valleys Agribusiness. You don’t need to commit any time or resources beyond this meeting – but come and make a contribution.
If you would like to be part of the
discussion please call Juliet Grist on 0408 520 338 or via email cammerayfarm@bigpond.com or simply come to the Bindoon Hall at
6.30 on July 10.
