The Ord River District Co-operative (ORDCO) has been selected as one of the recipients of the Western Australian Government’s Value Add Investment Grants. This grant provides ORDCO with $750,000 to upgrade its stockfeed plant in Kununurra, in preparation for the Kimberley Cotton Company’s gin coming online later this year. This development will mark the return of locally available cottonseed in the Ord region for the first time since the 1970s.
The planned upgrades at ORDCO’s plant will allow for an increase in production capacity to 25,000 tonnes per year and will enable the expansion of offerings for blended grain rations. This initiative is expected to enhance resilience in the northern cattle industry, create four new jobs, and provide opportunities for local businesses during the construction phase.
The announcement of ORDCO’s grant allocation was made on January 16 by the WA Government, along with the unveiling of the other seven recipients of the latest round of Value Add Investment Grants totaling $7.08 million. Among the recipients was Kojonup Feeds, as previously announced.
The remaining grants were allocated to various projects, including:
– $1 million for Mt Barker Chicken to upgrade its processing facility and increase capacity
– $1 million for D’Orsogna to expand and upgrade processing and packaging facilities for meat products
– $1 million for AAA Egg Company to modernize processing equipment for value-added products
– $1 million for Bidyadanga Aboriginal Community to expand cool storage for melons
– $1 million for Foodfolk Australia to relocate and upgrade its ready-made food facility
– $580,000 for Forest Hill Wines to enhance its bottling line
These grants aim to support and stimulate growth and innovation in key sectors of the Western Australian economy. The investments will not only benefit the recipient businesses but also contribute to job creation and economic development in the region.
The Value Add Investment Grants program reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a competitive and sustainable business environment in Western Australia. By supporting projects that enhance value-added production and processing capabilities, the program seeks to drive economic growth and create opportunities for local businesses and communities.
The successful applicants have demonstrated their commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, aligning with the government’s vision for a thriving and resilient economy. Through strategic investments in key sectors such as agriculture, food processing, and manufacturing, the government aims to position Western Australia as a leader in value-added production and export.
The grants awarded to ORDCO and the other recipients represent a significant investment in the future of Western Australia’s economy. By supporting projects that enhance value-addition and processing capabilities, the government is laying the foundation for continued growth and prosperity in the region.
In conclusion, the Value Add Investment Grants program plays a crucial role in supporting businesses like ORDCO in their efforts to enhance production capacity, create jobs, and drive economic growth. The program exemplifies the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and competitiveness in key sectors of the economy, ultimately contributing to the long-term prosperity of Western Australia.
