september
*Source: Logistik Journal 2009
01 2010
print post approved pp 00000/00000
18
epping market
Fresh State Demands Answers
FREE Health
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S O L U T I O N S
forklift challenge
F O R
E V E R Y
P A L L E T®
MEET THE FRESH STATE BOARD MEMBERS
young executive committee projects
meLbourne markets reporting service
03
issue 01
september 2010
president’s message:
what’s on: 4
9
10
Market Relocation: Fresh State demands answers from Government on Market move.
Feature – Mangoes: Vital information about Australian Mangos plus a bonus recipe.
Meet the Board: Profiles of all 7 Fresh State Board Members.
Welcome to the first edition of Fresh State of Affairs, Fresh State’s new bimonthly magazine.
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Forklift Challenge: Separating the men from the boys.
Around the Markets: Pictorial spread.
Men’s Health: Put your chassis to the test and take a Pit Stop!
CONTENTS 2 | What’s On 3 | President’s Message 8 | Fruit and Vegetable Residue Testing
20 | Melbourne Markets
Credit Service (MMCS)
22 | WFW 23 | Melbourne Markets Reporting Service (MMRS)
16 | Membership Services
Published by:
Fresh State CEO:
John Roach john.roach@freshstate.com.au
Editor / Advertising:
Sonja van Eijk sonjav@freshstate.com.au www.freshstate.com.au
Contributors:
Kate Adamson Megan Mcnaught
Design:
Flying Dog Designs www.fddesigns.com.au
From the President
24 | Young Executive Committee 25 | Fresh State full memberships 27 | F resh State associate memberships
Print:
King Print www.kingprint.com.au
Distribution:
Fresh State of Affairs is produced by Fresh State Ltd and is a free publication.
There have been a number of ‘firsts’ for Fresh State this year. In March we held our first Pit Stop – a health check for men. Together with our partners the Royal flying Doctors Service and GlaxoSmithKline, Pit Stop highlighted the unhealthy lifestyles that the market community leads and the effects that our antiquated hours of operation impose on our health.
And now Fresh State of Affairs! The Fresh State Board took up this initiative to ensure that members, the market community and external stakeholders are consistently informed of the latest issues, developments and initiatives that affect their working lives. This first issue looks at the big ticket item of relocation – We put the ‘Minister on the Spot’ as to “where is the information
With Fresh State of Affairs the aim is to start to ‘demystify the fence.’
June saw the first Forklift Challenge, a skills based test of our forklift drivers developed by the Fresh State Young Executive Committee. Our partners Toyota Material Handling and Kleenheat with assistance from Hino supported this pilot for what will become an exciting annual event.
September see’s the First Fresh State Gala Ball – the Spring Fling. This is the ‘Wholesalers Ball’ – an event aimed at acknowledging the importance of the sector, its businesses and individuals. Our partner Kleenheat Gas has been very supporting of this initiative.
our wholesale market. They do not see the hard work, the shocking hours, the urgency of moving huge quantities of fresh produce nor the spirited negotiations to achieve the best price. Its time this changed! Therefore, on behalf the Board and management it gives me great pleasure in launching the first edition of Fresh State of Affairs.
Shane Schnitzler President Fresh State Ltd
on allocation, rents, leases, equity and forklift access” at Epping – why the mystery? We introduce the Fresh State Board and we feature action from ‘around the markets’ as well as from Pit Stop and the Forklift Challenge. With Fresh State of Affairs the aim is to start to ‘demystify the fence’. For too long the rumour mill has misinformed people of the true nature of what happens inside
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 2010
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. ISSN: 0000-0000
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issue 01
05
september 2010
market relocation:
OF AFFAIRS
“The community wants answers to the issue of rents, allocation, equity, warehousing and forklift access, and these issues must be resolved immediately to give certainty to a nervous market community.”
The new Epping market in Melbourne’s north is touted to be state of the art. But market tenants remain in the dark about the basic details, less than two years from the new market opening its doors, according to Fresh State President, Shane Schnitzler. Market users still don’t know how much rent they will be paying or what they will receive for their equity in the existing market, Mr Schnitzler, of Kapiris Brothers, said.
Fresh State of Affairs put Mr Schnitzler’s concerns to the Victorian Government recently, in an attempt to clarify these concerns.
“This makes it impossible for people to plan their businesses. There seems to be a lot of things we can’t get answers to in regard to relocation,” he said.
Rents
The community wants answers to the issue of rents, allocation, equity, warehousing and forklift access, and these issues must be resolved immediately to give certainty to a nervous market community, Mr Schnitzler said.
Market users remain in the dark about how much rent at the Epping market will be, despite build costs being confirmed. “There is nothing stopping them publishing a rent figure,” Mr Schnitzler said. “They know what their cost is, know what their build costs is yet they are keeping rent costs under wraps.
“People need to know now so they can plan their business model going forward. They need to decide if they are capable of an increase in rent. The more time they’ve got the better.” Major Projects Minister Tim Pallas who is responsible for the new market told Fresh State of Affairs he hopes the Government will be in a position to give advice on rents before the end of the year. “It’s a critical issue for market tenants and an issue that really goes to the attractiveness of the relocation offer and the future of their businesses. We don’t want to rush into this,” he said.
market relocation:
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issue 01
Mr Pallas said the Government was working with the MMA and the market community on the issue, but couldn’t speculate what the rates will be.
ments that people have spent over the years. This gives them the opportunity to transfer their improvements over to the new site.”
“The thing that is motivating us is making the market a viable ongoing concern and as possible for existing operators to move,” he said.
Market users recently engaged a third-party surveyor to quantify their improvements and those values have been forward to the Government.
Allocation
Mr Pallas told Fresh State of Affairs the new market will offer far more superior facilities that will meet the needs of the market users for decades to come.
The Victorian Government has approved a design and fixed the contract price with Bovis Lend Lease, yet allocation of market sites remains an unknown. “What we want to know is who will be where and who gets what and how that will be allocated,” Mr Schnitzler said. The new market will continue using the three site models: A store, B store and trad-
He said the Government was committed to give tenants the opportunity to operate and or own the new Epping market. “We’re essentially prepared to work with tenants to give them an opportunity to look at the future management of the
The new market will offer far more superior facilities that will meet the needs of the market users for decades to come. ing floor, with many market users currently operating from a mix of three or two. “Again this uncertainty clouds people’s judgment going forward because they don’t know if they can run similar business models to what they have at Footscray Road, at Epping,” Mr Schnitzler said. According to Mr Pallas, the Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development was compiling information on current store holdings and will determine space offered to tenants in the new market. “It’s an enormous exercise and later this year we will be able to talk to tenants how that process will work,” he said.
Equity With more than 40 years of equity built up in the Footscray market’s wholesaling business, knowing how that equity will be transferred to the new market is critical for business operation, Mr Schnitzler said. The Government has earmarked $34.2 million for an industry assistance package, but it is not known how this will apply and how the issue of equity will be fairly compensated for, in the new market. “There’s been no word at all from the Government on this issue,” Mr Schnitzler said. “Effectively we’d like to see the Government apply the $34.2 million to the improve-
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facility and operate and or own the new markets. It is an issue we are certainly open to. The market community ultimately will be the masters of their own destiny,” Mr Pallas said. In relation to the industry assistance package, the Minister was unable to specify how it might be applied. “It’s a resource we can tap into for the purpose of making the move as attractive as possible to the industry,” he said.
Warehousing The market community has asked the Government for the opportunity to buy freehold land for warehousing at the new site, yet the Government has not responded, Mr Schnitzler said. “Because the Government is silent, we can’t make a decision on these issues,” he said. Mr Pallas told Fresh State of Affairs that proximity warehousing issues was the next issue on table, with the Department currently conducting interviews with tenants on this matter. “We are looking into the total amount of warehousing actually required and who is best placed to deliver it… and considering whether it will be long term lease or freehold,” Mr Pallas said.
Forklift access One of the most contentious issues at the new market relates to forklift access. The Government has agreed a building contract with Bovis Lend Lease with forklift access in trading stands or growers floor, but not at the front of trading modules or wholesale premises because of ventilation issues. Currently forklift access is allowed throughout the market floor.
“We want to create a safe work environment for tenants where business can thrive.” This creates an uncompetitive environment with the growers’ floor being allowed access, but wholesale premises not, Mr Schnitzler said. At the same time it doesn’t make operational sense, he said. With 95 per cent of retailers using forklifts to transport produce, it is imperative that there is access throughout the market floor. “It means all of our retailers are going to have to buy at the rear of our stores, not the front of our stores. Buyers effectively can’t see the goods at the front unless they walk,” he said. The Government’s argument that it is a ventilation issue indicates a problem with the design that must be addressed, Mr Schnitzler said. According to the Minister, market tenants would be treated equally in terms of forklift access, while occupational health and safety was paramount in the new market. “We want to create a safe work environment for tenants where business can thrive,” Mr Pallas said. “Forklifts will be permitted on the trading stands and stalls, being the rear of stores and stands, and pedestrian access at the front. Separate forklift access and pedestrian access is the key to our thinking here.”
The s ’ t n e d Presi View: Rents In late 2009 we were told no later than March of 2010. Now it’s the end of the year, (an election year !!). There seems no doubt that rents will be a blow out otherwise they would have been released… Allocation Government have a fixed contract with Bovis Lend Lease based on a fixed design…. So what’s the hold up? We can only assume that the design does not meet the needs of current business holdings. Equity A & B store holders will be supplied with nothing more than two walls with front and rear doors (rear being a roller door). Not even a ceiling is being provided!! The statement of a far more superior facility seems to be a smoke screen. Own and Operate the Market - Government has held no discussion with the market community on the management or ownership models to date, however they have published that the MMA will be the operator. Warehousing The government acquired 133 ha of land for the purpose of the fruit and vegetable market but are only dealing with approx 54 ha. There seems to be an intention to sell the remainder to developers to the detriment of the market community. If we push people out of this precinct the facility will fail, as proven overseas. Forklift access The Minister’s comment of forklift access to the rear of stands can only be classed as uneducated, stands are lines on the ground, and stand holders can simply turn their stock around to face any direction. Stands don’t have a front or rear!! The store holders will simply lose the market atmosphere to the growers floor and trade will move to the rear of their stores.
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issue 01
Mangoes
Please note the new pricing below which is effective immediately. Prices exclude GST. As at 22nd Jan 2010.
TEST CODE
ANALYSIS
Market PRICE / SAMPLE Members
Non Members
PESTICIDES C3 Full Residue Analysis (Organophosphates, Organochlorines, Halogenated Pyrethroids, Carbamates, Fungicides, Acaracides, and selected Herbicides)
$125.00
C4
Dithiocarbamates (measured as CS2)
$100.00
$120.00
C5
Miscellaneous chemicals
$100.00
$120.00
C6
C3 + C5
$200.00
$220.00
C3
Fruit & vegetable residue testing:
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september 2010
$145.00
HEAVY METALS HM1
Cadmium
$55.00
$65.00
HM2
Cadmium/Lead/Mercury
$65.00
$75.00
HM3
Arsenic
$55.00
$65.00
MICROBIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS M1
E.coli
$28.00
$38.00
M2
E.coli + Listeria
$58.00
$68.00
M3
E.coli + Listeria + Salmonella
$85.00
$95.00
M9
All of the above + Staphylococci and Faecal Coliforms
$150.00
$160.00
M5
E.coli + Listeria + Salmonella + Staphylococci
$150.00
$160.00
Mangoes from the Darwin area have been on the market for the last couple of weeks. Kensington Pride (also known as Bowen) and R2E2 varieties are both in light to moderate supply at present and building. The overall quality can best be described as mixed and a wide price range is operating as a result. Quality needs to improve from what we see at the moment.
section indicator: feature:
fresh test:
OF AFFAIRS
Quality will be significantly higher when the Mareeba fruit starts in November and continue until February. Late September / early October also see’s the arrival of stone fruit from Southern Queensland and northern NSW.
Australians eat their way through eight million trays of mangoes a year.
The Darwin season will continue until mid November when the Katherine area kicks in and will go on until the end of November / early December. Reports from the growing areas generally predict a good level of supply given favourable conditions. The Queensland season should start in November and overlap with the NT. The early Queensland fruit which will come from the Burdekin area has in past years been of poor to average quality and expectations are similar this season.
Mango facts Kensington pride makes up approximately 70% of all mango fruit with the next most popular being Calypso and R2E2. Over 80% of mangoes are sold on the fresh market with the remaining 20% being used for processing. Approximately 10% of fresh mangoes are exported.
What to look for when buying A ripe mango should have a fragrant tropical fruity aroma, a full colour and will give slightly to the touch. An unripe mango has no scent and can have an unpleasant chemical taste if eaten raw.
Storage To get the best taste, mangoes should not be refrigerated until ripe. To ripen, store at room temperature. Fully ripened mangoes can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and never store them in a plastic bag as they need air.
Fresh Test is an Australian Chamber Initiative which monitors and tests chemical and microbial levels in fresh produce. Fresh Test is a state of the art testing program designed to promote and maintain high quality produce standards within the Fresh produce Industry. Benefits: • Daily collection of Fresh Produce • Quick, easy and reliable • 24 hour online access for wholesalers • Up to date results • Improved audit efficiency • All results held in complete confidence • All laboratories used are accredited by NATA to IEC/ISO17025
• Cheaper than it’s competitors • Is recognized by Government and industry including major retailers • Has regular liaison with third party QA certification bodies to ensure testing meets increasingly stringent requirements • All tests are conducted through independent NATA accredited laboratories
To organise collection and testing of your produce, please contact your State Chamber office. FreshTest Online has a live connection to the Fresh Test database that allows you to obtain information and reports for yourself or your growers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
To access FreshTest Online go to www.freshmarkets.com.au Note: you must first register with the Chamber to receive a logon and password.
Mango and Chicken San Choy Bau
advertisement
Ingredients
Method
• 2 ripe juicy mangoes, diced • 1 butter lettuce washed and separated • 2 poached chicken breasts, shredded • 1 red capsicum sliced • ½ cup chopped coriander
1. Arrange the lettuce in a pile on a serving platter. Combine the chicken, mango, capsicum and coriander and set aside.
Dressing
3. To serve, fill a lettuce leaf with some of the chicken and mango salad then roll up and eat!
• • • •
2 cloves crushed garlic ¼ cup lime juice 1 tbsp fish sauce 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
recipe:
2. Combine the dressing ingredients and mix through the chicken and mango salad. Pile beside the lettuce leaves.
Serving suggestion Add 1 large handful of bean sprouts and ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts to the salad.
Makes: Prep time: Cooking time:
2 serves 10 – 15 mins 10 mins
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september 2010
board members:
OF AFFAIRS
Meet the Fresh State board Shane Schnitzler
Joe Amalfi
Vince Brancatisano
Phillip Brancatisano
Grant Nichol
Vince Natoli
Steve Grillo They have fresh produce in their blood, are driven by a passion to improve the industry they love and are dedicated to representing the people who make up the dynamic marketplace they are so proud of.
Shane Schnitzler – President
“The future of our industry is in the palm of our hands, and is only limited by our imagination.” Unlike many in the market, Shane is the first in his family to embark on a career in the fresh produce industry. Yet the CEO of Kapiris Brothers says he was born to work with fruit and vegetables. A part time job in a fruit shop in Lilydale at age 14 sparked a lifelong interest in the industry which led Shane to manage Woolworths’ fresh produce business for nearly 15 years before joining Kapiris Brothers 13 years ago. “I love the fruit and vegetables and the people,” Shane says. “Every person you meet in this industry has the best product and knows everything about everything. There’s a lot of passion. It’s awesome.” As President of the Fresh State board, Shane wants to take the 105-year-old organisation towards a sustainable business model that’s truly representative of its members, which ultimately will become a member-owned, private equity business. Shane believes travelling to other markets and continuously learning from others is the key to moving the industry forward. “The future of our industry is in the palm of our hands, and is only limited by our imagination,” he says. Outside of market hours Shane spends as much time as possible with his other loves, wife Linda and children Brett, 19, Gabrielle, 16 and Charlie, 3.
Joe Amalfi – Vice President
Vince Brancatisano – Deputy Vice President
“I like a challenge, and this industry certainly throws its challenges at you.”
“I’m very excited about what Fresh State can achieve.”
A 30 year veteran of the market, Joe knew from an early age that an ordinary day job was never for him.
Although Vince began working in the market as a 10 year old, he had no intention of joining the family wholesaling business after completing his business degree at university. But graduating in the 1990s recession meant good jobs were hard to come by and Vince realised he was lucky to have his holiday market job.
“I don’t enjoy that mundane, nine to five lifestyle,” Joe says. “I like a challenge, and this industry certainly throws its challenges at you.” Working at the market with his father during school holidays led Joe to becoming a carrier agent at 17, before buying his own stall and establishing Brescia Wholesalers in 1988, which he sold to his brother, before establishing his current company, The Fruit Specialist. Joe joined the Fresh State board four years ago after realising there were issues in the market affecting all the users that needed an industry approach. “My focus used to be purely and simply with my business. It just got the stage where there were things in the market we needed to work on as an industry,” he said. As part of his role, Joe is a director of the Melbourne Market Credit Service which is owned and operated by Fresh State. He is wants to see more market users switch from dealing in cash to using the credit service which provides security and cheaper rates the more it’s used. “I’d prefer to know we have safe funds rather than unsafe funds,” Joe says. Joe is married to Rosalba and has four children, Frances, 22, Bernice, 19, Daniella, 13 and James, 11 and is president of the Banyule Football Club.
“After a few months I really started to enjoy it and then the challenge bit me and I never thought of doing anything else,” he says. Vince is in his 20th year at Prestige Produce, the third-generation family business he runs with his two younger brothers and for the past 12 of those has been on the Fresh State board. “I’m very excited about what Fresh State can achieve. It’s got several business units, all profitable and is becoming a leading organisation in the Australian horticultural industry.” Vince believes Fresh State plays a key role in supporting the industry to improve the way it does business and building the industry’s profile in the community. Outside of business, Vince enjoys spending time at his family farm with his wife Katie and children Carla, 6, and Max, 4, and their Belted Galloway cattle.
Phillip Brancatisano – Board Member The newest member of the Fresh State board, Phillip joined the team four months ago, drawing on his leadership experience with other boards and sporting clubs. The director of the Apple Arcade, a wholesale business specialising in apples, pears, nectarines, cherries and grapes, Phillip has been in business for 19 years but came to the market at 16, to work with his father, a retailer. He has a motto for business, which has been the key to his success. “Growers are our family, customers are our partners,” he says. “It’s no good trying to stitch a customer up today, because they won’t be back tomorrow.” Phillip says attracting good staff is one of the industry’s challenges he hopes to address. “It’s a real issue getting good workers because they’ll give it a go and they disappear because they just don’t want to do the hours,” he says. But despite the early hours, he believes the market is a great place to work. “I love the fact I’ve got the day to myself f I want to do anything. I enjoy the wheeling and dealing and the challenge of making a dollar. And the people in the market are really good people.” Phillip enjoys spending time with his wife Angela and children Katrina, Natasha, David and Matthew. He also enjoys water skiing and his role on the board of the East Keilor Football Club.
Grant Nichol – Board Member Four years ago Flavorite’s wholesale business manager Grant Nichol joined the Fresh State Board to be involved in the market relocation to Epping in 2012. Grant describes the move as the biggest event impacting the industry, and hopes to help facilitate a good transition to the new market. “We want to negotiate a good deal for our wholesalers and ensure the move to Epping is a positive one that is adds value to all our businesses,” he says.
Along with his role on the market relocation advisory committee, Grant is also a director of the Credit Service and sits on the policy council and wholesaler advisory committee. Grant has been around the market since he was a teenager and today runs his third-generation family business Flavorite Marketing, with his two cousins. Originally a banana wholesaler, Flavorite grows and markets hydroponic tomatoes, cucumbers and capsicums, plus a range of produce from other growers around the country. “But you develop a passion for the industry and get drawn into it,” he says. “The key thing to what I love about it is it changes, not just day to day but minute to minute, and you constantly have to evaluate things.” Grant has travelled the world as an Australian skydiving team member, a sport he continues to enjoy with his wife Julie. He enjoys skiing and other sports with sons Lachlan, 10 and Liam, 8.
Vince Natoli – Board Member Getting young people involved in running the market was one reason why Vince Natoli joined the Fresh State board eight years ago. As chairman of Fresh State’s Young Executives Board, Vince is focused on developing the next generation of market leaders. “I joined Fresh State because I wanted to see changes in the market and thought the only way you can help is by getting involved and trying to make things better,” Vince said. “By getting young people on board, it’s bringing in the future of the market and helping the guys be stronger and better leaders.” Under his stewardship, the young executives have organised successful market events including the recent Forklift challenge, and presented Victorian Major Projects Minister Tim Pallas with a plan to address the issue of market hours. Vince has been around fruit and vegetables his entire life, helping his parents Betty and Gino run fruit shops in Melbourne’s outer east. He began his current wholesale business AMV Fresh seven years ago, with his brother Claude.
“I have a passion for what I do,” Vince says. “Every morning is an exciting challenge and reading the market is like reading the stock market. It’s a great feeling when you get it right.” An accomplished fisherman, Vince has held the Australian record for a 154kg Marlin which he caught at Narooma, on the NSW coast. He is also a mad Richmond supporter, where he helps out before games. Vince is married to Teresa, and has a daughter Nadia, 11, and son David, 8.
Steve Grillo – Board Member Joining this year, Steve is the newest Fresh State board member. As state manager of Moraitis, one of the largest rent holders in the market, Steve has a unique perspective of the industry working for a national organisation which operates wholesale, packaging and banana ripening businesses. “I actually love this industry, the dynamics and it’s ever-changing face. You come in each day and never know what you’ll be up against,” Steve says. Steve joined the industry as a 15 year old at Woolworths before working in fruit shops and various wholesalers, with a 10 year break out of the industry in between. As a Fresh State director he hopes to help address issues that matter right now from the use of Chep pellets, to the move to Epping. “I really want to make a difference for wholesalers in the market and be their voice,” Steve says. With 30 years of karate training under his belt, Steve also runs a karate school in Keilor Downs. An Essendon supporter, Steve is married to Joanne and is father to seven-year-old twins Connor and Jordan.
forklift challenge:
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issue 01
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september 2010
Forkies take to the floor in formula one style
Truck Course: Each participant had to neatly load and unload produce, packed in various types of packaging, on a truck.
“The forkies are sort of the unsung heroes of the market, they deserve some recognition,” Lukasz said.
Justin grew up on a cauliflower, lettuce and silver beet farm in Werribee South and made the move into the market five years ago.
Lukasz said hundreds of forklift drivers worked at the markets overnight, to make sure that fresh produce was ready to sell each morning.
He is now a sales representative for his own company, Agosta Produce, and said concentration and consistency were the keys to being a good forklift driver. “You need to be fast but more importantly, you need to be consistent,” he said. “Growing up on the farm we would often have races and we always joke that I would win a competition – but I never thought I would actually compete in one,” he said. He said winning first place was a thrill, but competing in the event had other benefits. It gave him a chance to meet people who he works alongside with every night but never had reason to speak to before.
It had all the trappings of Formula One: speed, precision, expensive machines and fierce rivalry between highly skilled drivers. But it was another event that took over the Melbourne Wholesale Market trading floor for a day in June – the inaugural Forklift Challenge. The competition was held after drivers finished work in the morning to give them a chance to get to know each other on a social level. It was so successful it is likely to become an annual fixture in the calendar.
“There are plenty of people that I have always seen around the market, but never crossed paths with, so this gave me a chance to get to know them,” he said. That was exactly what organisers of the event were hoping for, according to Fresh State Ltd Young Executive Committee member Lukasz Gorajek.
In an industry where quality and freshness are paramount, there is no room for error. “There is no point growing, picking and transporting produce only to have it damaged in the final stages,” he said. “If you drop a pallet of tomatoes they can’t be returned. Fruit and vegetables are big business and it needs to be done right.” “Forklift drivers need to be reliably good at their job.” Lukasz said the competition was so successful it is hoped it will become an annual fixture in the calendar. He said the quality of drivers in the competition was extremely high and he expects it to be even higher next year. “We had a lot of people say to us that they wished they had entered … we think we could double our entries next year.” Second place getter Shane Clay, who works for fruit wholesaler G Ferlazzo, commended the organisers of the event.
“The forkies are sort of the unsung heroes of the market, they deserve some recognition.”
Twenty seven drivers completed three different courses under the watchful eye of judges, who were looking for speed, accuracy and safety. Each mistake was penalised and the driver with the lowest score at the end was declared the winner. 24 year old Justin Agosta took out the overall prize with a score of 329, well ahead of nearest rival Shane Clay, with 374 and just ahead of Elliot Ward in third place on 377. Justin attributed his success to a childhood spent driving machinery around the farm. “You can’t sell bruised produce so you learn to be accurate pretty quickly,” he said. The three courses competitors had to complete were: Pallet Course: participants moved, re–stacked and moved again a number of pallets in a particular order. Obstacle Course: Each participant had to accurately navigate around a tight course of obstacles in both forward and reverse.
The committee decided to hold the event to promote a sense of unity at the market. “There is nothing like a bit of friendly rivalry for bringing people together,” Lukasz said. He said while retailers and agents often received recognition for their hard work, forklift drivers, who worked through the night, often missed out.
“Everyone stayed around and had a BBQ afterwards and chatted to each other. “We all work together but it was good to be able to relax and have a bit of fun as well.” The 30 year old, who won one of the challenges, said being a good forklift driver meant being a perfectionist.
“Especially when it comes to loading the trucks, because if the pallets aren’t in straight then the produce will be damaged. “It needs to be done right every time.” Lukasz wanted to thank sponsors Toyota Materials Handling, Kleenheat Gas, Melbourne Market Authority and Hino Trucks.
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around the markets:
OF AFFAIRS
3.
2.
1.
4.
5.
6.
Clockwise from top: 1. Sam, Tripodi Produce P/L
5. Phil, Chris and Ralph, Westmores
2. Rob and John, Kapiris Bros
6. Robin, Westmores
3. Tony, Fresh Berry Co
7. Albert, Wong & Co P/L
4. Tony and Mario, Regal Produce P/L
8. Ang, LA Produce 7.
8.
issue 01
Representing Melbourne wholesalers
The current 163 member businesses represent wholesalers, growers, retailers and providores as well as numerous ancillary supporting businesses within the Melbourne Market community. These include warehouse tenants, transport companies, food outlets, hire companies, unloaders and many other businesses which support the primary wholesalers. Accordingly, FSL now provides considerably more value added services and representation for members benefit. In 2006 Fresh State undertook a Class action against the State to protect the equity rights of members. This class action has since been parked whilst further negotiations are undertaken with the State, but remains alive and will be re-instated if need be. In recent years, FSL has obtained considerable legal advice on common issues such as relocation, lease renewals and variations, and the mandatory code - all issues that impacted on members businesses. FSL is committed to reviewing its goals and will face the challenges and opportunities ahead. What are the services available to members of FSL?
Representation FSL communicates with the Melbourne Market Authority and the State Government on industry matters, acting in the members best interests. Site issues such as credit, pallets and market hours are the primary areas of focus. On a national basis, FSL is a member of the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries, and makes representation to the Federal Government on relevant issues and initiatives.
The market is required to observe employment conditions covering Clerical & Administrative, Storage Services and Transport Employees. Fresh State is an active member of the Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce & Industry (VECCI) which provides instant assistance for any employer, employee conditions or disputes. FSL has access to the most recent information on employment conditions and advises members on their employment requirements.
The FSL Annual General Meeting for all members is held each October with our half yearly General Meeting held in March each year.
TRAINING
The Board consists of up to 8 Directors who are elected by the members, and meet monthly to manage the FSL business. The Board and management also participate in a strategic planning workshop each April to focus on the direction and annual budget for the upcoming year.
Incoming Product Volumes FSL collects manifest data of incoming product volumes. This information is only available to members and is free of charge.
Insurance & Rental Bonds
FRESH STATE WEB SITE
FSL represents more than 95% of Melbourne wholesalers and this support reflects the directions and programs taken by FSL to provide proper representation, value and services to members.
Meetings
FSL has arranged for special group rates on Public Liability Insurance and Insurance Rental Bonds for members. These group schemes provide members with considerable savings when compared with individual insurances. Competitive rates are also available on other types of insurance.
Fresh State equipment & secretarial services The latest in photocopying, word processing, binding or facsimile facilities are available for member’s requirements at a nominal fee. Secretarial services can also be arranged for members.
Purchasing discounts FSL Members can take advantage of special purchasing deals with a number of prestige car makers such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, VW, Lexus, and also with Toyota forklifts and Hino Trucks.
Job Seekers FSL lists employment vacancies and relevant job seekers in our weekly Newsletter. This service saves members recruitment costs.
FSL represents more than 95% of Melbourne wholesalers and this support reflects the directions and programs taken by the FSL to provide proper representation, value and services to members.
MEETING FACILITIES
Fresh State Ltd (“FSL”) is the representative body of wholesalers operating at the Melbourne Markets and Membership Services is the primary business unit of FSL. It is in fact the founding business of FSL and its’ earlier organisational structures over the last 105 years.
17
september 2010
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
OF AFFAIRS
FRESH SPECS
membership services:
16
Training courses, seminars and conference facilities are available for both in-house and external courses for business and personal development. Fresh State has facilitated in house Fork Lift License Testing and has developed and conducted comprehensive training for members on the Mandatory Code of Conduct.
FSL has a comprehensive website which provides considerable information on our organisation as well as a listing of all members. The FSL website publishes each member’s Terms of Trade as required under the Mandatory Code of Conduct. Members contact details and types of produce are listed and members have the opportunity to have a hot link to their own web site. www.freshstate.com.au
Facilities are available for members to hold their own company or group meetings in the Boardroom, with overhead projector, television, video and white board on hand. Call 9689 3233 to arrange your booking.
FSL members are entitled to use “FreshSpecs” as their product specification standards. Having a recognised product specification assists with meeting quality assurance standards and also minimises difficulties with rejection of product on delivery from suppliers.
men’s health:
18
OF AFFAIRS
issue 01
Put your chassis to the test and take a
t i P
19
september 2010
! P O T S
That was the call to the market community at the inaugural Pit Stop for good health event at the market in March this year. More than 300 market users took up the challenge and got themselves checked out by the Pit Stop team of doctors who hit the market floor. Organised by Fresh State and supported by the Royal Flying Doctors and GlaxoSmithKline, Pit Stop was an initiative encouraging wholesalers and other market users to take stock of their health and wellbeing. And it was lucky they did, with results showing health was a major problem for many men working in the market. Most averaged only three hours sleep a night and had poor diets, while many had high blood pressure and several were identified at risk for bowel cancer and referred to their GP.
“Pit Stop was a much needed wake up call for many of us, and hopefully we will start looking after ourselves a lot better as a result.”
To attract the mostly male participants, the Pit Stop health check up was designed as a series of car-themed medical tests including the chassis (waist) check, exhaust (smoking), oil pressure (blood pressure) and duco (skin cancer) tests. Victorian Minister for Major Projects Tim Pallas, celebrity dietician Judy Davie and former Essendon footballer and cancer survivor Adam Ramanauskas were on hand to spread the message of how important it was to get regular check-ups to prevent a serious illness. Adam Ramanauskas was particularly passionate in his plea to the men to take care of themselves.
``There are 7000 people who work here and walk through the door. If we can get a quarter of these guys tested it’s a great achievement,’’ he said. ``Just do it, it’s such an easy thing.’’ Fresh State president Shane Schnitzler said Pit Stop was designed as a fun way to approach a very serious issue. “We work horrible hours, we don’t eat healthily, we don’t feel we have the time to exercise and we have all sorts of excuses,’’ Mr Schnitzler said. “Pit Stop was a much needed wake up call for many of us, and hopefully we will start looking after ourselves a lot better as a result.” Wholesaler Phil Basile took the Pit Stop test and since has been working to improve his diet and get more sleep in a bid for better health. “The hours we work are not very good for our health,” he said. “I’ve been working in that environment for 22 years, and it’s all the things you do on top of eating fruit and vegetables that are not good for you, like drinking coffee and smoking, to stay awake.” “It was an excellent event and I think they should come again soon,” he said. “I think a lot of other people would want to take part who didn’t get to do it the first time.” Rick Giurini of Pignataro’s said Pit Stop was a good way to educate men about their health while being a fun social event.
“I thought it was good idea because blokes tend to not worry about their health as much,” Rick said. “And anything to get the blokes together is good. There’s probably 4000 or 5000 people working at the market and you never really see them outside of work hours because their busy doing deliveries, busy selling, and after market everyone goes upstairs to do their paperwork.” He was not surprised to be told to stop smoking and drinking and improve his diet. “But it’s pretty hard when we do work different hours. And we are having hamburgers at 5am in the morning because we’ve been up since midnight.” For wholesaler Harry Kapiris, Pit Stop was a real eye opener. “I’m not the fittest bloke about; I’m reasonably healthy but not fit. You just don’t think of those things and how the body works, and how things can affect your life,” Harry said. “The younger generation are a bit more alert and in tune with their bodies but the older blokes keep going until the whole thing wears down. “ Since Pit Stop, Harry has had a full check up with his GP. “I probably wouldn’t have gone otherwise because you only go to the doctor if something was really wrong.”
issue 01
OF AFFAIRS
september 2010
Lagging payments hurting half of Aussie firms – are you one of these? The latest business-to-business payments figures released by Dun and Bradstreet reveal that Australian firms took an average of 53.4 days to settle their accounts during the June quarter. Payments now exceed the standard 30 day term by more than three weeks and remain above pre-crisis levels. According to the Dun & Bradstreet report, the latest data provides a clear sign that businesses must continue to focus on the fundamentals of cash flow management. The report said that Australian firms need to recognise the value of their accounts receivable. A solid receivables process, which is dependent on firms taking action to collect their bills promptly, can generate significantly more operating cash for the business. Business-to-business payment data provides a strong indicator of the cash position of firms and access to cash is vitally important
during a recovery period as firms seek to meet growing demand. The report stated that to positively affect the cash flow of firms, executives need to take prompt action to collect their bills and to make accounts receivable a key priority. 58
So how do you sharpen up? By utilising the Melbourne Markets Credit Service (MMCS) you get paid in 14 days – a huge advantage when compared to other industries and lets you sleep soundly at night. To find out more contact the MMCS office on 03 96877333 or mmcs@melbmcs.com.au 57.4
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56.6
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55.6
55.6
55.3 54.8
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53.9
54 53
54.1 53.4
52.6 51.8
52 51 50 49
Q4 2007
Q1
Q2
2008
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
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Q2
Average Payment Days
Joe Toscano: Toscanos
testimonials Joe Toscano began going to market 53 years ago and he still thrives on the buzz, sharing buying duties with sons Damian and Patrick for the family’s three stores in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. “I just don’t want to give it up, I love it,” Joe says. “There’s no case of fruit the same, no piece of fruit the same. You’ve got to continuously monitor your quality.” The Toscano legacy began when Joe’s parents opened their first fruit shop in the mid-
Steve Wirtz: R. Anguey
melbourne markets credit service:
20
Named after its Chinese founder, R. Anguey began at the Victorian Market after World War II, and is today one of the last specialist pea and bean agents in the market. Stephen Wirtz has operated the company since 1996 and says he follows the old fashioned ethos of bringing in produce fresh daily. “We don’t have warehouses, we don’t have delivery trucks, we get our stuff in fresh and aim to
1930s, before launching the Kew flagship Toscano’s store in 1950. Today the store operates across 4 shop fronts, and involves Joe’s extended family. “We just work well together. We all have an opinion... the reason you have strong opinions you have passion for the business, which we each have.” Joe says. Joe says hard work and focusing on making customers happy is what Toscano’s is about.
sell it every day fresh… whatever the prices are,” he says.
“The credit service is fantastic, I swear buy it,” Stephen says. “It really suits retailers as they want the ease of paperwork.”
He said prompt payments are appreciated and the Melbourne Market Credit Service has aided this process.
Keith Hanslow: Millens Keith is the newly appointed Chair of the Melbourne Markets Credit Service (MMCS). He is a familiar face with a number of Fresh State members having facilitated the four strategic planning and governance workshops over the last three years. Keith brings to the position of Chair of the MMCS a wealth of experience in both the legal and business professions. He has combined degrees in economics and law and has been a practicing solicitor for over 30 years. Keith’s areas of expertise include corporate and commercial, property, employment law, family business and pharmaceuticals. He has substantial business management advertisement
Joe has welcomed the development of Melbourne Market Credit Service which he says has been good for his business and for the industry. “The credit service is convenient with one bill at the end of the day,” he says.
“We are specialised and people get to know you for what you handle. Most of our customers are regulars and they trust us”.
mmcs
something is scarce, you look after him when it’s plentiful… Most of us work with that ethos because you don’t get far the other way. It’s the same with customers. If anyone has a problem we fix it. We do our very best so you go home happy.”
“All business is about relationships,” he says. “If a grower is looking after you when
“We’ve always been top shelf agents and we’ve always had top growers,” Stephen says.
21
“We have touch screen computers and once we’ve done our trading for the day it gets transferred into credit service buyers and casual bookings. With credit service buyers, it’s an invoice and docket on the day, and it’s all on email. It’s such a time saver.“
Audit . Tax . Business Advice
experience and proven competence in establishing, managing and interpreting financial information. Keith is a Fellow of the Institute of Company Directors and an inaugural member of its “Super 5 Club” for conference speaking and education. He was the first lawyer appointed by the Victorian Government to the Pharmacy Board of Victoria; is a former member of the Property and Environment Law Section of the Law Institute of Victoria and a former member of the Institute’s Employment Law Section. Keith’s ability and experience in business and cultural change and his understanding of the direction, development and position of both Fresh State and the Credit Service are major pluses for the business.
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Are drawn out trading terms crippling your business? A Solution to payment problems
Our law firm really understands your industry With more than 20 years’ involvement in assisting the fresh produce industry, WilmothFieldWarne has the insight and experience to be a valuable and reliable legal partner to your business. We are the trusted solicitors of Fresh State Limited assisting them in numerous matters including commercial negotiations with the State in respect of the relocation to Epping, providing advice for members’ store and warehouse leases at Footscray Road and many commercial matters. We have provided legal services for a number of key clients at the markets for the last two decades.
Our track record stands for itself. WilmothFieldWarne offers legal services in numerous areas of law including: • Corporate Restructures • Sale and Purchase of business • Property and Finance (Commercial and Residential)
The nature of the fresh produce industry can often mean a level of uncertainty when it comes to your daily transactions. Deciding which buyers to sell to can be tricky. Are they a bad risk? When will they pay? Will they pay at all? As a seller, these are all questions that can weigh heavily on you whenever produce changes hands. There’s no doubt it’s a stressful way to do business, not to mention a drain on your cash flow. Imagine if you could choose who you sell to based on factual up to date evidence of their payment history and current debt status? Melbourne Markets Reporting Services (MMRS) now makes that a reality. This new and innovative service means you can sell with confidence and the peace of mind that you are dealing with a reputable buyer.
• Leasing (Commercial and Retail)
What Is The Melbourne Markets Reporting Service?
• Wills and Probate / Estate and Succession Planning
The Melbourne Markets Reporting Service is an on-line register which:
• Family Law
• I dentifies buyers outside the Melbourne Markets Credit Service ledger
• Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution
• R ecords total amount of outstanding debt accumulated with sellers
• Building and Construction • Town Planning
• Identifies those buyers who are in arrears • C an assist sellers in the recovery of accumulated debts
• H elps buyers realise debts with repayment plans This information then allows you to make fact based decisions on which buyers you will sell to – more information means more security! • D evelop an informed opinion as to whether a particular buyer is a reasonable credit risk • M ake an educated decision regarding whether to sell produce to a buyer, taking into consideration the amount of outstanding debt
How does it work? As a seller your input is important in making the register an effective and accurate tool for all users. When you join the service you will be asked to enter your aged debtor details and other nominal debtor information on a weekly basis. Not only does this provide an accurate debtor report but more importantly highlights those buyers in arrears. This means that you and fellow sellers can simply log on to the report and receive accurate up to date information on which to base your weekly sales decisions. Not only does this help your short term cash flow, but in the long term hopefully encourages wayward buyers to improve their payment behaviour – and that’s good for everyone.
Training
• Insolvency: Corporate and Personal • Recoveries • Personal Injuries / Medical Negligence
Don’t hesitate to call our liaison partners Euan Luff or Anthony Desiderio Tel: 9224 1000 Fax: 92241099
Two Easy to Use Functions Accessing Debtor Information:
Entering Debtor Information:
Log on via your security P.I.N.
Log on with your security P.I.N.
Click to accept Terms & Conditions
Click to accept Terms & Conditions
Search for a particular buyer
Upload a pre configured CSV file or manually enter data
Search results are displayed Level 13, 440 Collins Street Melbourne Victoria Australia 3000 tel: +61 (03) 9224 1000 | fax: +61 (03) 9224 1099 | email: info@wfw.com.au | web: www.wfw.com.au
Review debtor information
MMRS also offers FREE training, so you and your staff can use the system with confidence with no downtime or cost to your business.
Security and Confidentiality The MMRS utilises an independent third party to validate security of the system, so you know that all recorded information is secure and confidential.
Want to Know More? For additional information contact Melbourne Markets Reporting Service: Postal Address: PO Box 560 Footscray VIC 3011 Tel: (03) 9687 7333 Fax: (03) 9687 7611 Email: info@melbmrs.com.au
melbourne markets reporting service:
Melbourne Markets On-line Register
OF AFFAIRS
YEC
The Fresh State Young Executive Committee (YEC) is designed to promote opportunities for young people to voice their views and improve their working environment. Many of today’s business owners have passed through the YEC on their way to either establishing their own business, taking over the reins of their family business or achieving higher representative positions.
The young getting things done
The study also looked at the results of the ‘Pit Stop’ health checks, recent research studies on sleep deprivation and workplace safety from both an individual and business perspective. The impact on peoples’ health is disturbing and the definition of a ‘safe and healthy workplace’ is brought into question at the Footscray Road site.
Put simply, the study found that the present operating times do not reflect 2010 business models nor workplace health and safety and that there is an urgent need to change the market hours to 6.00am five days a week with effective compliance.
Recent activities of the YEC include,
Market Hours Review Market operating hours have been a major issue for attracting and retaining young people in the market. The history can be traced back over half a decade with the most recent review and changes resulting from the 2007 YEC submission to the MMA. At the start of 2010 the YEC undertook to revisit the issue with the development of a detailed review of market hours under the context of economic and social impacts.
The Minister requested the YEC and the Fresh State leadership present the review findings directly him (May 2010). After a detailed presentation, the Minister agreed that the hours need to change and suggested that he would like to see a consultative approach used rather than a directive approach from him. The YEC expressed concern that some individuals have a history of threats against those wishing to change hours in the past and that a more direct approach from the minister is required.
The 75 page study compared the starting times in other central markets in Australia and Melbourne’s competitive “disadvantage” (first to open and everyone bases the pricing equation on us); the changing operational requirements of modern
The YEC is yet to receive the Minister’s official reply and action plan.
1.00am 2.00am 3.00am summer
4.00am
summer
5.00am 6.00am 7.00am 8.00am 9.00am 10.00am 11.00am 12.00pm M–F
M–T
Sydney Growers
F
M
T–F
Brisbane
MF
TWT
Adelaide
MWF
Perth
TT
MTF
TW
Melbourne
YEC Recent activities: Forklift Challenge (See feature on pages 12 & 13) An initiative of the YEC, this event was aimed at acknowledging and ‘testing’ the abilities of our forklift drivers. It was a fun event that highlighted safe forklift operation, the importance skill and precision and presented an opportunity for the ‘forkies’ to chat over a BBQ breakfast.
YEC fund raising The YEC has conducted a number of fund raises that are used to supplement costs for YEC participants to attend the Australian Chamber Conference, PMA Aust-NZ Fresh Event and the National Vegetable Leadership course. This provides a broader platform for development of our young people and allows them to gain experience outside their day to day work environment.
Blood bank The YEC have arranged for the Australian Red Cross Blood Bank to commence visits to the markets. Please support this initiative.
YEC monthly BBQ To grow support, the YEC hold a monthly BBQ on the last Thursday of the month outside the Fresh State office for interested young people (up to 40 years) to find out more about the YEC, share their views and participate if they so wish. All under 40s welcome!!
Market operating hours review by State
Sydney Produce
25
september 2010
Fresh State full memberships
wholesale businesses; and the operating “disadvantage” resulting from early buyer entry and little or ad-hoc compliance by the operator.
The format of the YEC was revamped late last year so as there is a mix of people and a mix of undertakings or projects. Some of these undertakings relate to the YEC itself and some to the broader market community. The YEC currently has six members with a number of observers and is chaired by Vince Natoli (AMV Fresh).
issue 01
M–F
Proposed Melbourne
Full Member Companies
Contact
Telephone
Abix Investments (A Pignataro)
Andy Pignataro
03 9689 9396
All Produce Traders Pty Ltd
John Dennehy
03 9687 6418
AMP Produce P/L
Mario Fabbian
03 9687 3147
AMV Fresh
Vince Natoli
03 9362 7340
amvfresh@optusnet.com.au
Anguey, R. Pty Ltd
Stephen Wirtz
03 9687 6358
r_anguey@bigpond.com
Antonello Produce P/L
Dino Antonello
03 9687 6699
ant.prod@bigpond.net.au
Australian Strawberry Distributors Pty Ltd
Joe Ripepi
03 5964 4371
asd2@bigpond.com
Avanti Fresh Produce P/L
Mark Lorenzetto
03 9687 7677
avantif@bigpond.net.au
Bao Loc Investment
Bao Loc Nguyen
03 9362 7615
jlocbrosproduce@gmail.com
Barkers Melbourne
Ross Barker
03 9396 1777
barkers@barkersmelbourne.com.au
Betta Produce
Tony Butera
03 9687 2669
bettaproduce@iprimus.com.au
BGP Produce Pty Ltd
Glen Saunders
03 9689 9132
admin@bgp.com.au
Big Valley Produce Pty Ltd
Joe Scarso
03 9689 7600
scarso@bigpond.com
Biodynamic Marketing Co. Ltd
Peter Podolinsky
03 9689 1972
admin@biodynamic.com.au
BRP Wholesalers
Garry Pasini
03 9687 9355
garrypasini@bigpond.com
Brancatisano, V. & Sons (Fruit) Pty Ltd
Vince Brancatisano
03 9687 1370
vbfruit@ozemail.com.au
Brancatisano, V. & Sons (Veg) Pty Ltd
Vince Brancatisano
03 9689 4600
admin@vbveg.com.au
Brescia (Vic) Pty Ltd
Gerard Amalfi
03 9687 6011
brescia@brescia-ws.com.au
Camptara
Alex Campisi
03 9687 3499
Chin, S. H. Bros. Pty Ltd
Alby/Nick Chin
03 9687 2859
nick@comcen.com.au
Coolibah Herbs
Brett Williams
03 9687 2922
market@coolibah.com.au
Costa’s Pty Ltd
Anthony Costa
03 9689 8099
bananas@costas.com.au
Dennis Hanger P/L
Dennis Raftopoulos
03 9687 2038
Dimattina Provedoring Pty Ltd
Anthony Pirera
03 9689 5511
admin@dimattina.com.au
Dykes Bros Pty Ltd
Brian Dykes
03 9687 9150
brian@dykesbros.com
Eco Farms Pty Ltd
Phil Rougon
03 9362 0489
tsullivan@ecofarms.com.au
Elite Produce- Ace Holdings Pty Ltd T/A
Frank Barbaro
03 9396 1900
elitefruit@bigpond.com
F Legudi P/L
Dominic Legudi
03 9689 4401
Ferlazzo, G. & Co. Pty Ltd
Shane Clay
03 9687 6890
info@ferlazzo.com.au
Ferrinda Fresh Pty Ltd
Ross Ferrinda
03 9687 0111
ferrindafresh@bigpond.com
Flavorite Marketing Pty Ltd
Grant Nichol
03 9687 2444
grant.nichol@flavoritemarketing.com.au
Flowerdale Fresh
Darren Younger
03 9396 1920
Flowerdale Sprout Farm
James Rattray
03 57802347
james@flowerdalesproutfarm.com.au
Fonzie’s Produce Pty Ltd
Fonse Muratore
03 9689 0525
fonziesproduce@bigpond.com.au
Fresh Berry Co
Ian Mills
03 9739 1305
freshberryco@bigpond.com
Fresh Centre Wholesalers Pty Ltd
Ian Mills
Fresh Crop Vic P/l
Vince Corrone
03 9737 9458
freshcropvic1@bigpond.com
Fresh Cut Processors (Aust) Pty Ltd
Ken Alush
03 9687 1509
freshcut@optusnet.com.au
Fresh Exchange
David Hayford Hobbs
03 9687 5271
david.hayford-hobbs@tradingexchange.com.au
Fresh Generation
Gerry Katiforis
03 9687 9225
freshgeneration@bigpond.com
Fresh Growers
Carmelo Motta
03 5997 1343
motta@mottaproduce .com.au
Fruit Avenue
Thomas Lamanna
03 9687 2602
tiklara@bigpond.com
Gangelhoff, Alan Produce (Nom) Pty Ltd
Alan Gangelhoff
03 9687 6636
sales@gangelhoff.com.au
Gazzola Farms
Paul Gazzola
03 5977 8921
mail@gazzolafarms.com.au
Geelong Citrus Packers P/L
Andrew Thierry
0418 506 619
office@geelongcitrus.com
Granieri’s Fresh Produce Pty Ltd
Anthony Granieri
03 8080 7180
granierifreshproduce@iprimus.com.au
Great Australian Mushroom Co
Wes Arnott
03 9689 1390
gramcoadmin@bigpond.com
Great Southern Fruit Growers
Mark Paganoni
03 9689 6857
atlanta@surf.net.au
Hai Ha Supplies Pty Ltd
Ha Lu
03 9890 2478
HC Produce
Horace Cucinotta
03 9687 3218
hcproduce@bigpond.com
Holman Fresh
Anthony Holman
03 9689 5122
anthony@holman.com.au
JP Fruit
Peter Cheesewright
03 937 07160
pcheesewright@bigpond.com
Just Onions Pty Ltd
Alan Thierry
03 5229 7499
justonions@bigpond.com
allproduce@three.com.au
ian@freshcentre.com.au
memberships:
young executive committee:
24
memberships:
26
OF AFFAIRS
issue 01
27
september 2010
Kapiris Bros. (Vic) Pty Ltd
Harry Kapiris
03 9689 6711
kbmail@kapirisbros.com.au
Tripod Farmers
Frank Ruffo
03 5367 4861
frank@tripodfarmers.com.au
Kelly, I. & J. M. Pty Ltd
Geoffrey Kelly
03 9687 4022
iankellycitrus@three.com.au
Tripodi Produce Pty Ltd
Sam Tripodi
03 9687 6684
atripodi@yahoo.com
L A Produce Pty Ltd
Laurie Usai
03 9687 4382
jammu6@westnet.com.au
Universal Fresh
Don Garita
03 9689 0931
Lamanna Bananas Pty Ltd
Bernard Treacy
03 9687 5300
admin@lamanna.com.au
Veli Velisha Fresh Produce
Veli Velisha
03 9689 9384
velivelisha1@bigpond.com
Latorres Fruit & Vegetable Wholesalers P/L
Rocky Grillo
03 9362 7922
latorres@bigpond.com.au
Vemark Pty Ltd
John Salvestrin
03 9311 1422
vmark@primus.com.au
LIS Future Development
Elvis Haykal
03 9687 5263
elvis@msafco.com
Venuto, A. & Co. Pty Ltd
Ross Venuto
03 9687 6818
ross@venuto.com.au
Louis Melbourne
Con Karinicolos
03 9689 9033
info@louismelbourne.com
Verona Fruit Supply Pty Ltd
Ross Madafferi
03 9687 5300
Lowe, P & R
Peter Lowe
03 9798 6548
rhondalowe62@hotmail.com
VFS Produce
Paul Angelucci
03 9687 9090
vfspro@bigpond.net.au
M & M Wholesale Fruit & Veg Pty Ltd
Mario Mamo
0415 850 131
Young Sang & Co. Pty Ltd
Joe Palumbo
03 9687 2427
youngsangaus@bigpond.com
M. & N. Fresh Produce
Nick Conidi
03 9687 9889
Market City Fruits Pty Ltd
Laurie Thompson
03 9689 9071
marketcf@bigpond.com
Mason Fresh
Chris Mason
0412 339 495
ckmason@bigpond.net.au
Melba Fresh Pty Ltd
Lou Ponte
03 9687 2950
accounts@melbafresh.com.au
Associate Member Companies
Contact
Telephone
Melbourne Pear Co Pty Ltd
Robert Apted
03 9687 1269
melbournepear@bigpond.com
Berkis, G. & H
Steve Berkis
03 9689 8679
Mildura Fresh Pty Ltd
Fred Pascale
03 9689 2600
jpascale@bigpond.com
Bonadio Wholesale Fruit Dist Vic Pty Ltd
Sam Georgi
03 9857 5836
Vince Calavetta
03 9687 2022
Fresh State associate memberships Email sgeorgi@optusnet.com.au
Moraitis Fresh (Vic) Pty Ltd
Steve Grillo
03 9687 1408
sgrillo@moraitis.com.au
Brighton Hall Investments Pty Ltd (East End Hire)
Moraitis Wholesale Pty Ltd
Steve Grillo
03 9687 1408
sgrillo@moraitis.com.au
Brightsons Technology Pty Ltd
Min Jau Chai
0401 479 972
minjchau@bigpond.com
City Fresh Wholesalers
Anthony Mutton
03 9354 7377
anthony@cityfreshwholesalers.com.au
Moss, J. & Sons Pty Ltd
Josh Moss
03 9687 3166
Mountain Harvest Produce Pty Ltd
Nic Moro
03 9689 1133
nmoro4@hotmail.com
Clemmens, David
David Clemmens
03 9397 3278
Mumford Wholesalers Pty Ltd
Frank Maiuto
03 9687 5234
info@mumfords.com.au
Commercial & General Coolrooms
Cyril Saltmarsh
03 9397 3278
Mushroom Centre Melb Pty Ltd
Alfonso Luezzi
03 9584 8953
aleuzzi@bigpond.net.au
Dalson P/L - Vito Hire
Vito Silvaggio
0412 532 459
Mushroom Mania
Jim Loe
03 9813 8802
El Sheikh, N L & I
Abe El Sheikh
03 9689 4517
Fred Viglione
03 9362 0000
fred@eurofruit.com.au
commgen@satline.com.au
MV Napoleone & Co (Red Rich Fruits)
Tony Divencentis
03 5964 4596
red_rich_orchards@bigpond.com
Eurofruit Pty Ltd
My Personal Fruiterer
Harry Paskins
03 9314 1607
myfruit@bigpond.net.au
Fairbanks Selected Seed Co
Brendan Foley
03 9689 4500
fairbanks.seeds@fairbanks.com.au
NNH Fresh Produce Pty Ltd
Cuong Pham
0433 449 060
richiepham1@yahoo.com.au
Favero Gardens
Silvio Favero
03 5996 0314
favgar@bigpond.com
Omega Produce
Bill Prokopiou
03 9689 1006
office@omegaproduce.com.au
Freni & Doria
Vince Doria
03 5998 1233
frenidoria@bigpond.com.au
Opaljade Pty Ltd
Charles Chan
03 9687 0488
opaljade@optusnet.com,au
Fresh 2 U
Vince Demarte
03 9687 9322
enquiries@fresh2u.com.au
Robert Rain
03 9687 6897
fcus@bigpond.com
Organic Growers Group
Don Edwards
03 9687 4334
info@organicgrowersgroup.com.au
Fresh Centre Unloading Service Pty Ltd
PC Produce
Paul Cristiano
03 9687 1744
pcproduce@bigpond.com
Gioia Group Pty Ltd
Frank Anile
03 9331 0859
Perfection Fresh Pty Ltd
Brett Collins
03 9687 6989
brettcollins@perfection.com.au
Gaylon Agencies Pty Ltd
Sam Richter
03 9687 5392
Piccolo, F & L
Frank Piccolo
0412 329 143
piccolomarketing@bigpond.com
Guys Freight Service
Sam Guy
03 9687 1646
guysfreight@bigpond.com
PJ Nash Pty Ltd
Phillip Nash
03 9687 1687
westmor@bigpond.net.au
Harris Refrigerated P/L
Wes Pickering
08 8260 9999
wespickering@harrisrefrigerated.com.au
Orfeo Panaccio
03 9311 0911
orfy@innercityrefrigeration.com.au karlp@koch.com.au
Ponte, C. & S. Produce Pty Ltd
Lou Ponte
03 9867 5689
jmp@ponte.com.au
Inner City Refrigeration
Premier Fruits Pty Ltd
Joe Petroro
03 9687 7725
premierfruits@premierfruits.com.au
JED Cleaning
Jim Edmonds
Prestia Wholesalers Pty Ltd
Frank Prestia
03 9689 4569
prestia@primus.com.au
Koch & Co Pty Ltd, HE
Karl Papaioannoy
08 9741 4999
Prestia, A. Pty Ltd
Tom Prestia
03 9687 5500
Prestige Produce
Vinnie Brancatisano
03 9687 6449
Konidaris, J & S
John Konidaris
03 9689 4627
vince@prestigeproduce.com.au
Lake Boga Produce
Michael Armstrong
0408 996 850
micka@weterntruckrepairs.com.au
John Mignano
03 9464 1433
john@luve.comau
Priest Bros Marketing
Shane Priest
03 5941 2416
priestorchards@bigpond.com
Lu Ve Contardo Pty Ltd
Produce Connection
Joe Pignataro
03 5964 8188
admin@produceconnection.com.au
Market West Hire
Grant Cockburn Mark Perree
03 9686 0688
mark@mibrokers.com.au mmmcs@melbmcs.com.au
Produce of Virginia Pty Ltd
Michael Evangelou
03 9687 3248
pproduce@bigpond.net.au
Melbourne Insurance Brokers
Raft Produce (Aust) Pty Ltd
Michael Raft
03 9689 6555
raftproduce@bigpond.net.au
Melbourne Markets Credit Service Pty Ltd
Ralph Blakeley
03 9687 7333
Ray Gregory & Sons
Joe Gregory
0438 359 275
Murray Produce Metro Pty Ltd
Melissa Grylls
0418 559 822
Regal Produce Pty Ltd
Tony Gallace
03 9687 3393
regalproduce@bigpond.com
Nu Fruit Pty Ltd
Jason Campagna
03 9689 8936
Rich River Produce Pty Ltd
Dominic De Pietro
03 9689 5186
dominicdepietro@bigpond.com
Orino Pty Ltd
Terry Konstantakakis
03 9687 3230
Paul Phillips
03 5996 7343
patersonm@nufruit.com.au
Rosengal Wholesale Pty Ltd
David Galati
03 9687 2331
rosengalwholesale@bigpond.com
Paul Philips Transport Pty Ltd
Sacca Bros
William Hilsaca
03 9334 2508
saccabros@optusnet.com.au
Piscioneri Transport Services
Larry Piscioneri
03 5025 7118
larry@pts-transport.com.au
sam@velisha.com.au
Rainfresh
Ernesto Campagna
03 8379 9300
rainfresh@rainfresh.com.au
Scott/Mark
03 9687 1155
robinsonsunloading@bigpond.com admin@rudge.com.au
Sam Velisha Pty Ltd
Sam Velisha
03 9742 1922
Sculli & Co. Pty Ltd
Dean Sculli
03 9687 2255
sculli@sculli.com.au
Robinsons Unloading
Silk Bros (Melb) Pty Ltd
Peter Silk
03 9687 6821
peterksilk@bigpond.com
Rudge Produce Systems P/L
Terry Rudge
03 9689 1234
Frank Deluise
0409 238 731
Joe Piedmonte
03 9481 1600
South East Asia Produce P/L
Van Nguyen
03 9687 8400
vankiem@net2000.com.au
Sculli Strathmore
Star Fruit Pty. Ltd
Mick Sgro
03 9687 3277
nick@bananasplus.com.au
Stanley Hall Pty Ltd (Piedmonte)
Sunzest - The Organic Grower
Bill Gennimatas
03 9689 2059
sunzestorganic@bigpond.com
Stokes & Hammond
T C Produce Pty Ltd
Sam Cutrale
03 9687 3414
tcproduce1@bigpond.com.au
Tas Freight
The Apple Arcade
Phillip Brancatisano
03 9689 9160
apples@bigpond.net.au
Toyota Material Handling
Steve Lelean
0411 721 112
Victorian Polystyrene Recyclers
Peter Scoleri
03 96872110
The Fruit Specialist
Joe Amalfi
0418 869 011
The Grape House
Charlie Costa
03 5026 4869
charlie@grapehouse.com.au
03 6234 3754 03 6426 1201 info@victorianpolystyrenerecycling.com