New silos for Kangaroo Island to increase exports

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ID 10064226
ID 10064226

A new silo complex opened today by a Kangaroo Island grain company is said to fortify its reputation as a producer and exporter of premium quality grains grown and create seven new jobs by 2015/16.

Image courtesy of [xedos4] \ FreeDigitalPhotos
Image courtesy of [xedos4] \ FreeDigitalPhotos
The State Government matched Kangaroo Island Pure Grain (KIPG) company’s $570,000 contribution from the Regional Development Infrastructure Fund to support the company’s initiative to expand the facility.

The project costing $1,140,000 saw six new silos built at the Arranmore Road site increasing storage capacity to 12,796 tonnes of grain.

Minister for Regional Development and Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Gail Gago said in a news release that the storage complex opening was a significant milestone for the KI grain industry, ensuring quality and pricing for premium domestic and international markets.

“Kangaroo Island is one of the most reliable production districts in South Australia and a perfect example of South Australia’s clean and safe environment,” Ms Gago said.

Adertisement

According to the Minister, the silo complex is an investment that will benefit local growers and the KI agricultural industry for many years to come. The project is in line with the State’s strategic priority of Premium Food and Wine from our Clean Environment by enhancing business capability through the supply chain.

The new silos would allow for grain storage on the Island over 12 months in secure, sealed silo space and guarantee a constant and predictable grain supply while retaining grower benefits and without compromising grain quality.

“Being able to provide a top-quality product for our markets means we can provide premium returns to our local growers, in turn encouraging new grain production and boosting the local grain industry,” KIPG managing director and Premium Food and Wine from our Clean Environment Ambassador Duncan MacGillivray said.

MacGillivray acknowledged Japan as a significant export market, because the KI brand is valued high in the country. He says it is because of the consistent quality of the grain and the fact that products are traceable back to the farm paddock.

Joining the Minister at the launch will be a delegation from Japan, led by KIPG’s grain buyer Shigemi Hirata, Chairman of Hirata Industries from Fukuoka.

The delegation will tour a number of Kangaroo Island agricultural and food production businesses as well as take part in discussions with Government and business representatives in Adelaide.

According to the minister, pure Kangaroo Island grain was finding its place in niche and emerging export markets where quality was of paramount importance.

“Marketing the grain as 100 per cent Kangaroo Island grown has proven a winner for KIPG who are opening up new market opportunities thanks to their innovative thinking.”