The Southern Forests Food Council is pleased to confirm it has secured $1.5 million over three years through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to support the Council’s on-going activities in developing economic opportunities for the region.
The three years of funding from the Western Australian Government will allow the Food Council to continue its efforts to deliver the Genuinely Southern Forests brand, connect members to new market opportunities, identify agricultural development opportunities and establish alternative revenue streams to reach self-sufficiency.
Southern Forests Food Council Executive Chair, Bevan Eatts advised “This is fantastic news for the region. We developed the Genuinely Southern Forests brand in 2013. Now one in three people in Perth recognise that brand. This funding will allow us to build on that success both in terms of brand awareness and developing alternative pathways to market as the Council’s own revenue-raising streams mature and the organisation becomes self-sufficient.”
The Food Council has been operating since 2012 and has made a significant contribution to the local economy through promoting the region's produce, and establishing efficient supply-chain pathways for producers to access new markets.
Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said "The McGowan Government wants to assist the Council to further trumpet the agricultural food delights of the region - including truffles - as well as build on the fantastic success of the Genuinely Southern Forests brand.”
Ms MacTiernan continued "I look forward to seeing more success stories for local businesses through the Council's work."
SFFC Media Contact: Bevan Eatts, Executive Chair – 0419 811 823 or bevan@southernforestsfood.com
