december
15 2012
ISSN: 1838-7829
issue 15
december 2012
what’s on: 2014
4
10
Relocation:
Movember:
Its official. The proposed move to occur on 1 July 2014!
32 Cherries:
Peter Silk loses his moustache to raise money for Movember.
Wholesalers Cherry link to Chocolate King!
CONTENTS 2 | What’s on 3 | President’s message
34
38
Chinese New Year:
Q&A – Paul Taranto:
2013 is the year of the Snake. Chinese New Year will be celebrated 10 February 2013.
Published by:
www.freshstate.com.au tel: 03 9689 3233
11 | Christmas Special Messages 36 | Fresh Connections 2013
Meet the driven Fresh State Young Marketer of the year from TC Produce.
Fresh State CEO: John Roach john.roach@freshstate.com.au Editor / Advertising: Sonja van Eijk sonjav@freshstate.com.au Contributors: Sally Piper sallyp@freshstate.com.au
Design: Flying Dog Designs www.fddesigns.com.au Photography: Michael Lamond admgr.gfv@ruralpress.com Peter Casamento www.casamento.com.au
Print: King Print www.kingprint.com.au Distribution: Fresh State of Affairs is produced by Fresh State Ltd and is a free publication.
03
president’s message:
itzler
hane Schn S t: n e id s re P e th From Welcome to our 3rd Christmas edition and 15th edition of Fresh State of Affairs. It is timely to reflect on 2012 and look ahead to the coming year. 2012- The Year that was … 2012 was a difficult trading environment with over supply and soft consumer demand affecting everyone. Early in the year saw the Government release discussion papers for allocation of space, rents and warehousing at Epping. These subjects continued through the year with many members’ information sessions being held to inform and seek the views of members. We continued our action with a third party in relation to settling transferability of leases at Footscray Road with the Government. This was finally achieved in October. The Victorian Auditor General Office released its relocation project report in March. It highlighted probity issues on the project by Government; that the project will be at least six years late and more than double the cost; and that stakeholder management was not effective! The Australia Chamber Conference for the first time was combined with the Fresh Connections Conference and
held in Melbourne in June. Over 900 attendees and an exciting trade show were standouts. Our Gala Ball in October and the Fresh State restructure have been complemented by our strong financial performance. And to round out the year we received the news that the Government wish to relocate us on 1 July 2014. 2013 – The year ahead – Our wish list from Santa! Meaningful discussions with Government on a practical way forward for relocation must be number one! Government and its agencies are delivering a project by July 2014 but our members want a financially sustainable model that will last their lifetime. They will be here long after Government has departed and will have to live with the build, alterations and fit out in the knowledge that it is their own money at risk! And we want rents to remain the same as Footscray Road; rules of operation that are sensible and are enforced to protect tenants; and that Government will recognise their stuff ups and make the required alterations for store holders. Number two wish is the successful completion of the Fresh State
restructure with the members share company. This is an exciting move and a long term vision that supports both members and Fresh State. A successful Fresh Connections in Sydney in June where the goal is 1000 people and 100 trade show exhibitors highlighting the best and most innovative fresh produce and flowers in Australian and New Zealand completes the wish list. For me, it is an exciting time as I commence a bright new chapter of my life. I will be the CEO of a business that truly understands the needs of retailers as it now has 50% retailer ownership. This traditional wholesale business is living the new paradigm and I hope to see you all there at Barkers Fresh. My new details are below. On behalf of the Board and management I would like to thank you for all of your support through the year and wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy and prosperous New Year. Shane Schnitzler President Fresh State Ltd. CEO Barkers Fresh email: shaneschnitzler@hotmail.com tel: 0498 110 014
Disclaimer: Fresh State Ltd makes this magazine available on the understanding the users exercise their own skill and care with respect to its use. Before relying on, or altering any business practices, users should carefully evaluate the accuracy, completeness and relevance of the information for their purpose and should obtain appropriate professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances. This magazine contains views and recommendations that do not necessarily reflect the views of Fresh State Ltd. Fresh State does not in any circumstances accept responsibility for the accuracy or suitability or otherwise of any in-
formation published in Fresh State of Affairs. Fresh State Ltd specifically disclaims all and any liability for loss or damage of any nature whatsoever and however arising, whether due to accuracy, error or omission or any other cause. In addition, by using the information in this magazine, each user waives and releases Fresh State, its staff and agents from any and all claims relating to the use of this document. In no event shall Fresh State Ltd be liable for any consequential damages resulting from using the information in Fresh State of Affairs. © Fresh State Ltd 2012
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior permission from Fresh State Ltd. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to: The Editor Fresh State of Affairs Magazine Market Box 113, 542 Footscray Road West Melbourne VIC 3003
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issue 15
december 2012
relocation:
OF AFFAIRS
2014
The proposed move is now 1 July 2014 !!
… And why? What has changed? We have known for some considerable time that the new market complex at Epping will be completed by late 2012 and will sit idle for up to two years, (remember the installation of the roller doors on all the stores so the building could be locked up!).
Epping: Alterations & Fit Out Huge undertaking before being able to move in Let’s cut to the chase - we can’t move until the stores are in a fit condition to accommodate fresh produce and a minimum area of warehousing is constructed to accommodate the current warehouse incumbents at Footscray Road (31,500 m²). It is a logical point that fresh produce requires refrigeration to remain in optimum condition! With the market complex sitting vacant, what will be required for the tenants to move? Let’s break this area down into two parts and who pays for what. The two parts are alterations
A good question that probably only the Government can answer as they indicated the July 2014 move. But it is obvious that the rental income that can be derived sooner rather than later in the 2014/15 financial year would no doubt be a prime motivator for Government. So its July 2014 – provided the alterations, fit out and warehousing happens!
/ adjustments to the current build, and fit out for tenants. Alterations / adjustments For the life of the project to date, we have strongly argued that the current build was not the operational build required for tenants. Indeed, previous committees had been formed by Government in 2007 -08 so as to recommend changes that were more appropriate for a modern market. These changes were requested by FSL and forwarded to the State long before any construction contract was awarded to the builder.
05
relocation:
It is obvious that the rental income that can be derived sooner rather than later in the 2014/15 financial year would no doubt be a prime motivator for Government.
The required alterations / adjustments were highlighted in Fresh State of Affairs way back in October of 2011 and encompassed; roller doors being removed, cool room panel doors being fitted, vapour sealing of cool room wall panels, roof bracing for cool room blowers, installation of blowers, drainage for blowers, installation of cool room ceilings, installation of droppers for fire system, installation of lighting in cool rooms, removal of walls where tenants have multiple stores, installation of ceilings, lights and fire sprinklers, and a wall and cabling in the office area amongst other items. Who should pay for the alterations / adjustments? Government! These are fundamental to a store owner’s tools of trade which have already been paid for in their current
tenancy at Footscray Rd and should have been included / altered during construction. This is a forced relocation! Fit out Fit out is about the tenants choice of how they wish to run their business and what facilities they need for their individual businesses. These will vary between each tenant, mostly due to the nature of products that they sell and their appropriate holding requirements. Most tenants will use their store facilities as both a shop front and as a cool room storage facility, similar to Footscray Road. Some store holders will also support their store tenancy with warehousing facilities. Fit out options include installation of additional cool rooms within
their store depending on product requirements; blowers and ducting for those rooms, pallet racking of the type required for each business, cabling for computer systems and cool room controls, various lighting and computer configurations depending on the business, and fitting and furnishing their own offices etc. Who should pay for fit out? Individual store owners? It is reasonable that these specific tools of trade vary from tenancy to tenancy. However, can they afford such costs when coupled with an increase in rents and space? Images of Epping as at November 2012. Top: Assessing alteration necessities. Bottom: Government alteration issues.
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relocation:
OF AFFAIRS
Draft Tenancy Fit Out Guide This information is taken from the draft guide.
rojec ion P
t loca ts t Re e arke getable Mark
eM ourn
& ruit ale F oles e Wh ourn e Melb Guid t u Fit O ncy Tena
Melb
Nov
t
Ve
There are 3 categories of work:
The tenancy fit out process has been developed by the MMA in order to provide Tenants with a straight forward and simplified guide to complete their tenancy design and fit out works.
Base building works undertaken by the Base Building Contractor as generally described in the Works Category Table.
Keys steps in the tenancy fit out process are: 1. Initial Briefing – Tenancy Coordinator
3. Design Submission (approved by Government/MMA) (a) Design Intent Approval (b) C ategory B Works Referral (approved by Gov/MMA) 4. P re-construction Meeting (with Government/MMA) 5. Tenant Fit out Period 6. Authority to Trade 7. Stocking & Trading
Draft Tenancy Fit Out Guide A draft Tenancy Fit Out Guide (not final) has been developed by Government. There are currently around 120 store owners and the onus, from a government’s perspective, falls on the tenants. If they don’t / can’t undertake the alterations and fit out and receive their occupancy certificate, they can’t open for business!
Firstly they have to complete the tenancy, which the State are calling alterations and then they are expected to develop individual plans, get them approved, contract builders, refrigeration experts, cool room experts, lighting and fire systems experts to draw up their plans, get them approved by council and the
What will it cost each individual business; what will rents be, and will the wholesale industry business be the same as Footscray Road?
Can you receive an occupancy certificate if you don’t change/alter a thing? One can only assume that Government has one on the entire building! Can you imagine these store owners - wholesalers who are some of the best fruit and vegetable wholesalers in Australia, having to put their business to one side, change roles and become alteration and fit out experts!
december 2012
The main steps in the tenancy fit out process:
2. Appoint a Contractor ( approved by Government/MMA)
r 2012 embe
issue 15
MMA, order the appropriate parts, carry out the construction and installation, and be ready for opening on 1 July 2014!! Missing from the guide is the practical application to complete alterations and fit out. For example throw in the need to order equipment, the time lag in its construction and then installation
Category A Works
This is work undertaken / provided by the MMA / Government at their expense(current Build). This is where we view “alterations / adjustments” needs to be placed. Category B Works Works undertaken by the Base Building Contractor or MMA nominated Contractor for the purposes of a modification to the Category A works at the expense of the Tenant. This category presents serious issues as the VAGO report earlier this year pointed out that probity issues have plagued this project and their inability to deliver a competitive quote.This includes what would be classed as alterations to the current handover. In practical terms this category includes: At a minimum, the extent of Category B Works is likely to include adjustments to the fire services system (e.g. fire sprinkler head
(for example cool room blowers), and remember this is on 140+ tenancy stores. What does Fresh State propose? Fresh State has been discussing an easier process for members. This includes engaging specialist teams to scope up specifications, draft initial plans in line with planning authority guidelines and ultimate approval, cost up and have tenants choose their model. Generally speaking it includes 1. Fresh State to scope up alterations and adjustments as well as a number of basic fit out models under the guidance of specialist teams. 2. The fit out models be drafted up for pre approval. 3. Undertake an initial costing out of the drafted models. 4. Resolve where each item sits as to government or the tenant paying for the alterations or fit out. 5. Seek approvals for the fit out models from relevant authorities.
07
adjustments). These works are classified as Category B and must be undertaken by the MMA’s nominated contractor.
The Fresh State model seeks to significantly reduce the work load and responsibilities for our members.
Potential delays in acceptance, approval and payment of the Category B Works costs may impact the date for handover of the tenancy for fit out works. The MMA takes no responsibility for these delays. This category raises serious concerns but they can be rectified by simply including this category in Category A Works as most activities in this area fall into “alterations and adjustments”. Category C Works Works undertaken by the Tenant for the fit out of its tenancy as generally described in the Works Category Table. Now throw in warehousing fit out for about a third of the tenants, business and staff relocation and the many other things that go with moving. And the “elephant in the corner” is what will it cost each individual business; what will rents be, and will the wholesale industry business be the same as Footscray Road or will it decline at Epping, especially in the first few years?
Government alteration issues.
Missing from the guide is the practical application to complete alterations and fit out … 6. T enants to choose the model that best suits their needs knowing what government will be paying for and what their own costs will be. 7. Put to tender for both the equipment (such as cool room blowers) and the fit out building works. 8. Award tenders for the various parts. 9. Construction phase. 10. Defect rectification and testing phase. 11. Seek final occupancy approvals. 12. Furnish offices and stores. 13. Stocking and trading – opening! The Fresh State model seeks to significantly reduce the work load and responsibilities for our members. They can continue to concentrate on their current business whilst having the opportunity to make informed decisions on fit out. It also allows them to consider their whole business model
which may include warehousing on the Epping site or private warehousing elsewhere. We also believe that mass purchase of equipment such as air handlers would reduce the purchase price significantly. The model takes into consideration such things as equipment. For example, the cool room blowers that need to be installed will need to have specifications that meet tenant needs and in the configuration required; a tender process needs to be run and awarded; construction of around 200 would take approximately twelve months and it can be assumed that installation will take a further six months. All up over eighteen months and we move in nineteen months!! For the 1 July 2014 move a great deal has to be achieved. Fresh State has continued to seek meaningful engagement with Government following the settling of the
transferability of members’ equity to Epping. Currently we are working to finalise a Deed Poll for the payment of space lost by members so these people can be paid their entitlements. No mean feat as the Government and MMA are attempting to take away past, present and future claims on both sites through such a document and bind you to confidentiality as well… We are yet to view a draft of the Agreements for Lease (AFL) and by experience we just don’t trust an undocumented process and without our input! The issue is that tenants will be asked to sign the AFLs (and possibly their life away) in mid February 2013 and will not have seen costs for alterations and fit outs, rents and warehousing or if they do it will be at the last minute. And unfortunately for this forced relocation project we have Christmas upon us!
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issue 15
december 2012
queensland fruit fly:
OF AFFAIRS
Queensland Fruit Fly: the Pest that will not go away! Fresh State of Affairs of July 2011 contained an overview of Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) and the APVMA’s reviews of Dimethoate and Fenthion. What has happened since and what is happening in Victoria? Dimethoate and Fenthion Dimethoate and Fenthion have been the chief phytosanitary measures enabling the movement of produce susceptible to QFF into fruit fly free
The Melbourne Markets are deemed to be an exclusion zone. regions. Simply put, their use allowed Queensland produce to be moved and sold in Victoria. Without these cost effective controls, movement product
into Victoria especially during the winter months would be very difficult. Dimethoate was suspended from use in October 2011. This meant that one of the front line tools was lost from use for industry. The Fenthion review which lasted a considerable time and was concluded last month has seen this chemical mostly removed from use as well. Victorian DPI Meanwhile VIC DPI has acknowledged that QFF outbreaks in Victoria have been increasing and numbered over 120 last year alone. They have stated that the associated costs of eradication
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Fresh State will continue to push for the deregulation of the Melbourne Markets for QFF so as to allow unimpeded trade between Australia’s three biggest markets Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. of these outbreaks is unsustainable and unachievable. This appears especially so in the Goulburn Valley. The Melbourne Markets are deemed to be an exclusion zone meaning that certification of product from a QFF area needs to be valid as the certification shows that the product is QFF free. In August 2012, VIC DPI released a discussion paper that proposed keeping the exclusion zone in the Mildura / Robinvale region and deregulating the rest of Victoria including Melbourne and the Goulburn Valley region. QFF is deemed endemic in the far eastern part of the Victoria already. They also included a proposal of user pay to maintain the exclusion zone on the river which was not well received by industry. The first steps in the discussion paper were to deregulate the Goulburn Valley followed by the Melbourne Markets. The move to deregulate the Melbourne Markets is supported by wholesalers. Those that could be affected by deregulating the Markets tranship to Tasmania and South Australia. They would need to maintain their current practices. Industry Work The Queensland industry and others has spent considerable time and money developing systems based management for QFF. The ICA that recognises the system management control is ICA 47. On 16 November, VIC DPI formally recognised ICA 47 and released the following to industry (in part):
Notice to receivers of Queensland fruit fly host material: ICA-47 Inspection of fresh fruit and vegetables for freedom from fruit fly ICA-47 Inspection of fresh fruits and vegetables for freedom from fruit is a new ICA accreditation available for certification of fruit fly host produce. This ICA requires Queensland fruit fly host material to be inspected and certified as ‘free of fruit fly’. Any Queensland fruit fly host produce received under this ICA procedure is required to undergo verification on arrival. The above is not the deregulation of the Melbourne Markets as per the VIC DPI discussion paper of August 2012. It is a measure to recognise and allow trade of goods by a different control method. Fresh State will continue to push for the deregulation of the Melbourne Markets for QFF so as to allow unimpeded trade between Australia’s three biggest markets Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and encourage VIC DPI to work quickly to make this happen. For further information on ICA 47 and QFF control please contact: market.access@dpi.vic.gov.au
issue 15
december 2012
AF
FO
TE
R
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OF AFFAIRS
BE
movember:
10
“I have cut myself a couple of times shaving but all in all its been a great experience.” says Peter Silk (Silk Bros).
Silk loses the ‘Stache November is an exciting month. It is a month where thousands (854,000 in 2011) of people around the world jump on board to raise funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and male mental health. Also known as Movember, this month is now responsible for the revival of the iconic moustache on thousands of men’s faces. This year Fresh State director Grant Nichol, initiated with Fresh State and the Melbourne Market Authority to
participate although I did my give my wallet a good work out with donations”. Peter Silk of Silk Bros and known for his iconic moustache for over 30 years, made the ultimate sacrifice by agreeing to shave off his mo for the inaugural market event.
Fresh State are big supporters of men’s health through our Pit Stop program so Movember is another obvious fit. host two breakfasts to raise awareness of the event and sign up hairy wholesalers and retailers willing to grow a great mo for a great cause. “We couldn’t be happier with this collaboration” says Shane Schnitzler, Fresh State President. “We are big supporters of men’s health through our Pit Stop program so Movember is another obvious fit. My only disappointment was that I was unable to grow enough facial hair to
“I decided that this was a good time to make a change and I could raise a lot of money for men’s health” says Peter. “I feel really good. People keep saying I look five to ten years younger so I can’t complain about that!” Peter raised $2,500 for his efforts which is fantastic. Overall the Market breakfast and Movember collaboration signed up 233 registrations and at the time of printing has raised a total of $4,415 for men’s health.
Did you know? Movember originated in Melbourne. Movember has now grown to become a global movement inspiring more than 1.9 million to participate in the following countries: • Australia • New Zealand • United States • Canada • United Kingdom • South Africa • Ireland • Finland • The Netherlands • Spain • Denmark • Norway • Belgium • Czech Republic
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Christmas Special
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Michael Green Mob: 0419 380 315 Greg Jensz Mob: 0418 568 109
www.mab.com.au/alliance
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The information on this Ad has been prepared by MAB Corporation solely for promotional purposes. The information contained herein has been prepared in good faith with due care. Any projections however, represent estimates only and may be based on assumptions which, while reasonable, may not be correct. We do not warrant the accuracy of information contained on this Ad and do not accept any liability for any error or discrepancy or negligence or otherwise in the information. The information contained herein does not constitute all, or any part of an offer or representations for any property referred to herein. All plans, subdivision, surveys, development plans, artists’ impressions, photographic material and other such material are representative only. All parties must make their own enquiries and obtain independent advice in order to verify any or all information. © Copyright MAB Corporation. november 2012.
MAB0028 Alliance Fresh State Mag Ad 210x149_PFO2.indd 1
Merry Christmas to our customers and friends at the Melbourne Wholesale Market. Looking forward to a great year in 2013!
20/11/12 11:47 AM
12
OF AFFAIRS
Season’s Greetings from
Louis Melbourne
Merry Christmas to our customers and colleagues
at the Melbourne Market.
Christmas Special
ppy a h a e n o y r e v e r. a Wishing e y w e n s u o r e p s holiday and pro www.perfection.com.au
Merry Christmas to all from Regal produce.
13
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OF AFFAIRS
SeaS n’s Greetings All the best for the festive season.
OPALJADE
ear . y e h t t u o h g hrou t s s e n i nity s u u m b m r o u o C y s r t rs fo arke e m M o t e s n. n u o r c s u r a o u e b s o l e e o v t i t u M s o fe he Thank y We wish t very safe and happy a
15
Christmas Special
Thank you to the Melbourne Market Community and our growers for supporting AMV Fresh in 2012 – See you in 2013 at the Market!
Sea
s g n i t e e r son’s G
16
OF AFFAIRS
Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas
Laurie: 0418 366 013 | Tony: 0417 112 588
Christmas Special
Season’s Greetings
Season’s Greetings
17
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OF AFFAIRS
Season’s greetings
Merry Christmas and a happy new year from the Kapiris Family.
merr y christmas
Christmas Special
All our team at BARKERS thank the Melbourne Market Community for your custom over 2012 and wish you a prosperous new year.
19
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OF AFFAIRS Rocky and all the boys at LATORRES would like to thank their customers for their continued support and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy new year.
Season’s Greetings
Merry Christmas to all our clients.
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Christmas Special
Enjoy the Festive Season more this year with Great Australian Mushrooms
Fresh Berry Co wish our customers a happy and safe festive season.
The Great Australian Mushroom Company
Wishing our customers a happy and safe festive season.
22
OF AFFAIRS
To all our valued customers, wishing you all a happy Christmas and a safe new year. From Phil, Dean and all the staff at Sculli & Co.
V.F.S Produce wish our customers and the market community a very merry
Christmas
Christmas Special
23
Merry Christmas from the team at VB Fruit
From all the team at HC Produce, Merry Christmas to our valued customers & colleagues at the Melbourne Market.
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OF AFFAIRS
melon
potato
garlic
onion
pumpkin
ginger
Vince Brancantisano 0419 582 039
Mark Brancantisano 0418 338 757
Dom Brancantisano 0417598733
Stores 307-310 Melbourne Markets, 542 Footscray Road, West Melbourne 3011 T: 03 9687 6449 F: 03 9689 7134 E:admins@prestigeproduce.com.au
melon
potato
garlic
onion
pumpkin
ginger
Vince Brancantisano
Mark Brancantisano
Dom Brancantisano
0419 582 039 0418 338 757 Vince Brancatisano Mark Brancatisano Dom0417598733 Brancatisano 0419 582 039 0418 338 757 0417 598 733 Stores 307-310 Melbourne Markets, 542 Footscray Road, West Melbourne 3011 T: 03 9687 6449 F: 03 9689 7134 E:admins@prestigeproduce.com.au
Christmas Special
25
Season’s Greetings
KB Moraitis e e t i n gs i ti s r G s n at Mora Seaso m r e s h Te a F e th m fro
26
OF AFFAIRS
Season’s Greetings to the Melbourne Market Community
s a m t s i r h C ry r e M
All of us at Cool Dynamics thank you and wish you a happy holiday and a prosperous new year.
We Manufacture, Supply and Service the following products: High Humidity refrigeration, Hydro Coolers, Conventional refrigeration, Ice flakers, Vacuum Coolers and Freezers
15 Capital Place Carrum Downs VIC | T: 03 9775 1244 | F: 03 9708 2662 | E: admin@cooldynamics.com.au | www.cooldynamics.com.au
Christmas Special
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OF AFFAIRS
Season’s Greetings from all at TC Produce
To all our valued Growers, Suppliers, Buyers and the Melbourne Markets Community
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Thank you for your business, support and friendship during 2012 from all the Team at
Store 103–105A Melbourne Markets
(M) 0418 391160
Christmas Special
From the teams at Granieri’s Fresh Produce and Rich River Produce thank you to all our customers for your support and loyalty.
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OF AFFAIRS
Directors and staff wish the members, our corporate partners and the extended Market community a safe and happy holiday season.
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and s a m t Chris w Year y r r e M Ne y p p a te aH dimon
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cherries:
OF AFFAIRS
issue 15
december 2012
Cherries have been a longstanding Christmas tradition in Australia. “You know Christmas is coming when you start to see home grown cherries on the market floor” says fresh produce and Fresh State stalwart Rob Millis. The Cherry Ripe® bar was introduced in 1924 by MacRobertson’s. With its combination of cherries, coconut and dark chocolate, it quickly became a favourite with generations of families and as such, required a constant source of its main ingredient – cherries.
Wholesalers Cherry link to Chocolate King And with cherries come a number of products that have been famous in Australia and integrally connected to the Melbourne Wholesale Markets through the famous confectionary founder Sir Macpherson Robertson. MacRobertson’s was the largest confectionary manufacturer of its time in Australia founded in Melbourne in 1880 by Sir Macpherson Robertson.
When Rob started work in the family business in 1958, he went to Wandin to book in cherries with the growers for the MacRobertson order. MacRobertson’s would take up to 150 tonnes of white cherries (for their Cherry Ripe) to the Wandin factory and because white cherries were only available for around one week of the year, they would be preserved in barrels of brine, covered with a cloth and then sealed with hot wax. “Cherries would last for months this way” says Rob. Millis & Sons had one of the first contracts ever seen in the industry when they entered into an Agreement with MacRobertson’s. “We agreed to supply cherries to Mac’s for a margin of one halfpenny per pound” says Rob.
Other fruit would also be used for flavouring soft centred chocolates. “Plums were a good because of their colour so I would buy left over plums in flats at the end of a market day and take truck loads to the factory”.
“Wandin growers were also known for planting fields of root vegetables such as swede to use as “MacRobertson’s was a big part of Millis & Sons, especially a substitute for cherries during the depression in the 1930’s” continues Rob. when supplies were low” adds MacRobertson’s was the largest confecveteran
tionary manufacturer of its time in Australia founded in Fitzroy in Melbourne in 1880 by Sir Macpherson Robertson.
“Crystalised fruit was very popular in its day and used to be a big seller. Millis & Sons provided MacRobertson’s with an enormous amount of fruit such as pineapples, apricots, apples and cherries for crystralisation.” Rob says this was a popular gift especially at Christmas which has been more commonly replaced these days by flowers or bottles of wine. Rob Millis enjoys a Cherry Ripe.
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The Cherry Ripe® bar was introduced in 1924 by MacRobertson’s. With its combination of cherries, coconut and dark chocolate, it quickly became a favourite with generations of families and as such, required a constant source of its main ingredient – cherries. wholesaler Alan Dykes. These vegetables were used for not only Cherry Ripes but also glazed cherries. “They scooped the flesh out of the swede with a melon scoop and simply coated the vegetable in the glaze. It worked perfectly and was much cheaper.” Eventually MacRobertson’s found they could import cherries cheaper from Spain. This led to most Wandin growers either pulling out their orchards or changing to a more easy to sell variety of cherry that they continue to grow today. MacRobertson died in 1945 and in 1967 his heirs sold the company to Cadbury, which then merged two years later
MacRobertson
MacRobertson Bridge, Burnley, Melbourne.
with Schweppes Australia to become Cadbury Schweppes Australia. The new company continued to manufacture many of MacRobertson’s original products such as the famous Freddo Frog, Crunchie, Old Gold, Snack, Columbine and Cherry Ripe; which displayed the company’s distinctive logo on its wrapper until
2002. In 2009, Cadbury Schweppes separated from its beverage business and became Cadbury Australia, which continues to operate from MacRoberton’s original factory in Ringwood today.
As a Philanthropist MacRobertson is responsible for funding many iconic landmarks in Melbourne including the famous MacRobertson’s Girls High School, the bridge over the Yarra River at Grange Rd (MacRobertson Bridge), a fountain in front of the Shrine of Remembrance on St Kilda Road, and a Herbarium in the Botanic Gardens.
• T he Federal Cask Pty Ltd: built a factory in Footscray to make casks to house the maize syrup and sold by products such as wine barrels and other related products.
He also created manufacturing factories around the city that still impact our landscape today. Interestingly MacRobertson is a classic example of vertical integration and was well ahead of his time. The policy of any business he was associated with was to make it as self supporting as possible such as: • T he Maize Products Pty Ltd: built a factory in Footscray to make the maize syrup for his confectionary and he also sold the by products such as washing powder(known as Dandy Starch) and cornflour (Kream brand).
• T he Federal Timber Pty Ltd and The Timber Products Pty Ltd: a saw mill set up in Warburton to provide timber for the maize syrup casks. • F ederal Milk Pty Ltd: works were set up at Bacchus Marsh, Cohuna, Werribee and Myrniong to provide condensed milk. After supplying the local confectionary businesses, the surplus was marketed under the Lifeguard brand and sold in one pound tins both nationally and internationally.
chinese new year:
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Chinese New Year Chinese New Year is the longest and most important celebration in the Chinese calendar. It begins on the first day of the Chinese calendar (which falls on the second full moon of the New Year), and the festivities continue for 15 days. Chinese New Year will be celebrated on 10 February 2013.
Each year is named after one of 12 animals, and these 12-year cycles are continuously repeated. “It is the Chinese Zodiac” says Alby Chin, one of very few Chinese wholesalers in the Market today. “Legend has it that the Buddha beckoned all the animals to bid him farewell before he left Earth and only twelve animals arrived. Buddha honoured each animal by naming the Zodiac after them”.
Chinese such as the dreamtime is to Aboriginals and Christmas is to Christians. “Chinese New Year originated in China but it is celebrated right across Asia”. Vietnamese wholesaler Charles Chan from Opaljade, loves Chinese New
It is traditional for lettuce to be hung above an archway or something similar with Hang Bao (a red envelope) and fire crackers. The dragon dances underneath the offering and ceremonially takes the lettuce and lights the fire crackers.
The Chinese Zodiac signs are determined by the lunar year in which you were born. The Chinese believe the animal ruling one’s birth year has a profound influence on personality, and destiny.
The Chinese Zodiac signs are determined by the lunar year in which you were born. The Chinese believe the animal ruling one’s birth year has a profound influence on personality, and destiny. The saying is: “This animal hides in your heart.”
Chinese astrology is based on the five elements (earth, fire, water, metal, wood), Yin and Yang, Chi, and the cycles of time. Alby says that Chinese New Year is a very important part of being culturally
Year. “There are many Vietnamese who work in the Markets here so we have always celebrated.” Charles has been instrumental in organising the Chinese Dragon to perform its ceremonial dance in the market in years past. “I celebrate by eating and sleeping” he says. “Chinese New Year is a public holiday in Vietnam and parts of China, but here in the Market we still have to come to work so we usually finish as early as we can”.
“Fire crackers are an old style of promotion that draws attention to a business and some believe it also scares off bad spirits” says Alby.
Celebrations also consist of making offerings to past ancestors of roast pork, lollies, noodles and fruit. “Wholesalers get in certain fruit especially for Chinese New Year” continues Alby. “Fruit is the most popular offering and is generally round. It is big business for wholesalers and great to see a wide range of different produce on the market floor”.
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chinese new year:
2013: Year of the Snake Element: Fire Partners well with: Rooster and Ox Characteristics: Philosophical, organised, intelligent, intuitive, elegant, attentive, decisive The Chinese-Australian community holds a variety of events to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. The Great Dragon appears at the Chinese New Year celebrations in the streets of Melbourne. It can stretch over 30 metres long and is typically made of silk, paper and bamboo. In 2003 a new dragon - the Millennium Dai Loong Dragon - was commissioned from the Foshan Arts Institute China. The Millennium Dai Loong Dragon in Melbourne is carried by over 200 people. It is awakened every year with a ceremony of offerings to the Gods followed by a lion dance.
Top: Chinese New Year in the Melbourne Wholesale Market. Above: Charles from Opaljade provides the lettuce offering for the ceremony. Images provided by Melbourne Markets Authority.
Displaying and eating Tangerines is said to bring wealth and luck. Tradition stems from the way the Chinese words for gold and orange sound alike, while the word for tangerine echoes luck. It is good luck for tangerines to have leaves as it symbolises longevity.
fresh connections:
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issue 15
december 2012
Conference and Trade Show The Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries are offering all Wholesalers the opportunity to display their produce and / or services at Fresh Connections 2013.
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HOSTED BY
Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre 11 - 13 June 2013
Be a part of an exclusive fresh produce trade area High return on investment with networking and new business opportunities
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NA O I T P
Low overheads and no additional expense
y ispl a D n i T 6B lus GS p 0 0 ns t: $30 ce: bi • Cos a p s in ailer b provided t e r 6 • mies mm) & dum m x 1800 m (2700 Pass: day e d a r r hurs ay T ambe • 2 d nesday & T h C n a m ali Wed Austr uesday 8p e h t T o ( t ption ckets • 2 ti ome Rece hi Bar Welc at the Co ) til late nd on sta e g a raph n • S ig parag the o m ro ord p business in w 0 5 • t your ndbook u o b a a ate H Deleg
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For further information: Contact Sonja van Eijk on 03 9689 3233
Dark stain Black laminate Pine: clear finish
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4 bin colours available
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Bin colour and theming of trade display area non negotiable.
Paul Taranto
Q&A:
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OF AFFAIRS
“I am passionate about the longevity of our industry and trying to get more young vibrant people to become part of it.” Paul Taranto, TC Produce.
Works:
My first job was:
TC Produce. Main lines are grapes, tomatoes, potatoes, melons, pumpkin, watermelon and mushrooms.
At the family owned fruit shop in Werribee.
Lives: Greensborough. Most of my day is spent: Networking with customers. The football team I barrack for is: Essendon. My favourite Melbourne Market moment is: Winning the Fresh State Young Marketer of the Year award – a very humbling experience. The quality I respect most in a person is: Punctuality, honesty and loyalty.
My fondest memory is: Watching the birth of my three children. The aspect of my job I Iike the most is: Selling and networking with my customers. The thing I dislike the most is: The hours our industry work. I am passionate about: The longevity of our industry and trying to get more young vibrant people to become part of it. My business associates would say that I:
As I have grown older I have learnt:
Am a confident, hardworking individual, that says it how it is.
Sometimes your first sale is your best sale.
When I was a child I wanted to be:
If I described my business to a stranger I would say: Organised Chaos. The qualities I most enjoy about Melbourne Market are: The enduring friendships I have gained. In my spare time I enjoy: Going to the football and playing golf with my mates.
A chef. The place in the world I would most like to go is: Taormina in Sicily. The thing a lot of people don’t know about me is: I once won a George Clooney look-a-like contest. My favourite fruit or vegetable is: Mushrooms.
issue 15
december 2012
Paul Taranto is all about mushrooms. It’s his favourite vegetable and is something that he has been selling since he first started in the wholesale markets fifteen years ago. As is customary in many family businesses in the wholesale market, Paul started working in his family’s fruit shop in Werribee as a small boy and he has been surrounded by fresh produce ever since! He was working full time in the shop by the time he was 22 and running the business with his three brothers shortly afterwards. “Dad had been working in the fruit shop for 30 years and wanted a change” says Paul. “So he left the business to us and went back to his roots in the wholesale trade”. The sons eventually sold the fruit shop and, in 1992 Paul followed in his father’s footsteps and came to work in the Melbourne Wholesale Markets. He started off at Chiquita Brands Melbourne before making his way to Moraitis where he developed his experience and reputation over ten years. It was only after Phillip became very sick that Paul made the decision to join TC Produce, the wholesale business Phillip owned in partnership with Sam Cutrale. “I really didn’t think Dad would make it but no sooner had I moved across to TC Produce when Dad’s health improved”. Paul says TC Produce was traditionally a table grape business and the biggest change in the last eighteen months has been the introduction of new product lines. “This has been a really successful move and helped to build up the business” he says. He is a member of the Fresh State Young Executive Committee, a father of three young children and husband to Vanessa. Yes Paul is a very busy man. And spending up to ten hours a day in the business only makes things busier. He hasn’t much time to work on his golf handicap but he loves to follow the Essendon Football Club and spend time with his family. Paul recently was awarded for his efforts and hard work in the wholesale industry by being named the Fresh State Young Marketer of the Year Award. This includes a fully funded trip to PMA’s Fresh Summit in the USA in 2013. We only hope that he has the time to make the trip a reality!
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Our
Fruity Cocktails
for
! n o s a e S the Party
1. Watermelon Margarita
5. Christmas Jones
8. Pear and Cranberry Cocktail
Features fresh watermelon muddled with Mexican agave syrup, lime juice and Tequila
This sweet highball drink begins with a blend of strawberries, pineapple and vodka and is topped with lemon-lime soda. A mint garnish adds a little cheer.
A mix of orange flavoured liqueur and pear vodka. Fill four glasses to the brim with ice, pour cocktail over ice and garnish with a fresh pear slice and mint sprig.
2. Mojito Infused with mint, rum and fresh lime – Mojito’s are a surefire crowd-pleaser! 3. Frozen Daiquiri Add flavour to the popular Frozen Daiquiri with some fresh strawberries. This popular blended cocktail is perfect for cooling down on those hot summer days and can be made with almost any other fruit or fruit combination. You can try different combinations instead of strawberries such as banana or pineapple. 4. Pina Colada rab a blender and you’re just minutes G away from enjoying this tropical beverage: 500ml (2 cups) chilled pineapple juice 125ml (1/2 cup) white rum 125ml (1/2 cup) coconut cream 2 tbs finely chopped palm sugar 1 cup crushed ice Crushed ice, extra, to serve Maraschino cherry for garnish Pineapple wedge for garnish
6. Candy Cane
Just the name alone will get you in the holiday spirit! And don’t forget to rim the glass with crushed candy canes or other peppermint lollies!
2 cups cranberry juice 3/4 cup pear vodka 1/4 cup orange liquor Juice of 1 lime Ice Fresh pear slices Fresh mint
7. Grinch
9. Frozen Peachy Amaretto Cooler
This is a ‘born again’ Christmas Grinch cocktail with sweet flavours of melonflavored liquor and lemon juice. Add a maraschino cherry for the garnish for added colour and to represent the changed heart of the green man.
This will hit the spot on a summer afternoon: a delicious combination of frozen peaches, apple juice and just a dash of amaretto liqueur!
A delectable dessert drink made with peppermint and white chocolate liquor mixed with berry vodka.
And last but not least we cannot forget. 10. Bloody Mary A recovery cocktail made up of tomato juice, lemon juice and a nip of vodka to fire you up for the next party!