Fresh State of Affairs Issue 29

2015

29 oct

CELEBRATING A NEW LOOK, A NEW ERA AND A NEW HOME

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issue 29 oct 2015 ISSN: 1838-7829

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MMCS SHAKES IT UP

A system upgrade brings the Melbourne Markets Credit Service into the 21st century.

CONTENTS

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02 What’s on 03 President’s message 04 Epping news 10 Fresh State Gala Ball 21 Top ten 22 Fresh Summit 2014 24 Market on the Move 27 Q&A: Grant Nichol

FRESH STATE BALL

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A kaleidoscope of fun and colour that make up the 2015 Fresh State Ball.

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ADVERTISING 09 16 23 25 26 28

One Stop Shelving VIA Network

JOURNEY DOWN THE SILK ROAD

Shisham Stanley Epping Plaza Hotel

Silk Bros (Melb) Pty Ltd winds down after 100 years of market history.

Iceland Cold Storage Bayford Volkswagen Epping

18 PUBLISHED BY:

freshstate.com.au tel: 03 9408 6627

FRESH STATE CEO: John Roach john.roach@freshstate.com.au

DESIGN: Flying Dog Designs fddesigns.com.au

PRINT: Revolution Print revolutionprint.com.au/

EDITOR / ADVERTISING: Sally Piper sallyp@freshstate.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Sally Piper sallyp@freshstate.com.au Elizabeth Oswald eoimages.com.au Hamish Heath hamishheath.com.au

DISTRIBUTION: Fresh State of Affairs is produced by Fresh State Ltd and is a free publication.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Welcome to a new look Fresh State of Affairs magazine, the first from our new home at Epping. In this edition we have a look at what has happened in the last couple of months and why we have so much to celebrate. And we tie it in with our new logo as well.

On 9 October we held our 6th Fresh State Ball to a sold out crowd. It was a special night as we handed over $44,000 to Very Special Kids and the 20th Man Fund as part of the Market on the Move charity drive. This has been a major achievement for the market community and part of our social responsibility, so well done to everyone!

The Commemorative Magazine highlighting the 46 years at Footscray Road was launched at the Gala Ball.

This publication took over six months to pull together and is full of never before seen photographs as well as memorabilia from the old market. If

you haven’t seen it yet, I recommend you get your hands on a copy.

We have also launched the new look Fresh State Website at www.freshstate. com.au which enables all Fresh State members to have their business and

And of course we are here … After ten long years we are finally at Epping.

Fresh State and the Melbourne Markets Credit Service has a new office in the heart of the market at Store 36 for your convenience so drop by and say hello.

WE HANDED OVER $44,000 TO VERY SPECIAL KIDS AND THE 20TH MAN FUND AS PART OF THE MARKET ON THE MOVE CHARITY DRIVE. THIS HAS BEEN A MAJOR ACHIEVEMENT FOR THE MARKET COMMUNITY AND PART OF OUR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. product details listed and searched for easily and is in line with our new look and feel. Go online and check it out yourself.

I hope you enjoy the new look magazine as we settle into our new home at Epping.

The Fresh State AGM took place on 6 October with Mark Harvey, the assistant coach at Essendon, talking about the importance of leadership and the development of young people – subjects that are close to home.

Shane Schnitzler President Fresh State Ltd.

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 2015

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 Store 36, Melbourne Market 35 Produce Drive Epping VIC 3076

EPPING

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TWO MONTHS IN – WHAT IS THE VERDICT? AS TENANTS SETTLE INTO THEIR NEW HOME AT EPPING, THE MOST COMMON QUESTION BEING ASKED ALL AROUND AUSTRALIA IS:

issue 29 oct 2015

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“HOW’S IT GOING?” THE ANSWER IS “PRETTY GOOD – SOME FRUSTRATIONS BUT PRETTY GOOD!” YES, IT IS NEW AND THAT IS A BIG PLUS, BUT IT IS ALSO CLEAN – SO LET’S KEEP IT THAT WAY!

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h their space is doing well althoug e ar ey th ace they had they are doing at two thirds of the sp th t y ou sa ab es ly ss on ne si at business Most bu t you arket. Others say th bu t m d ke ol ar e m th d at ol e for a store to similar trade to th have been looking d et an “b – or e po lik is ns w ely. A few and do e or to exit complet as le b also get some ups su s y, bu t bi no defined proces ere doing” or “a ore space but with m t an w d ter than what we w an e stands, calls of bias arket”. The varianc for reallocation of less than the old m emerge. favoritism will soon lines or a bit of luck t uc od pr in be d coul ING STANDS: r position. ei WER MARKE T TRAD O th FL to rd ga re d that ith w s are not convince any license holder M l as anticipated.

STORES: s been as successfu ha e ov m e th ra pe m has not helped been the control te a premanent café of k lac e Th g, in The real bonus has sh fre are coming to d new facilities. Re saying fewer florists e ar ey th t e th bu e ture cool rooms an that this ar ” y, te keepers indicate reez y on a windy da the market. The ga good lights and “b ns. is not the case. general descriptio r te af ed iat ec SING: are really appr L AREA WAREHOU AL SM e th The new premises r fo g in ow to fit out Road, even all have suffered due e es it th ld tired old Footscray of ou e m sh r So (o ctors. In the e buyers walk committed contra er kov or w eerie quietness of th by s w ue no rs iss ye e that went ey!). With bu working ok for thos e ar t ey be called golf cart all os th m e ain th m e, ar rtainty has wholesalers th. One area of unce pa on is ed ing out where their th rk n pa w e do ar rs d unload where buye parking to load an ck tru ng e pressing question is rti th so en e m be so is is still taking urs. a particular day. Th ck during trading ho y spaces, a sto pt em y an m be to and there appears park so SING: others are forced to n he LARGE WAREHOU w e am sh a of ouse has bit e of the large wareh ding area. nc tra ie e en th nv m co fro e ay Th aw far y that it some. The flexibilit ter d af d ite su an e ly in tiv ec rta ce rsp ’s pe ed make the From a store holder test businesses has help r al ei re th e th to ts, gs in ou br fit r thei standing the having invested in ping easier notwith ence Ep m to m on co iti lls ns bi tra ly th on r fit outs. now starts as the m lay in many of thei g costs with rent, de in at er op er gh Hi . es en the rolling in due to the distanc eryone else has be sts ev r co fo d e se sid ea n cr w in do s, The ses way outgoing ten more staff to into their warehou of rs d ile an ta t, re t ke le ar to m e ls” “dea leases around th Are there any subr service than at e! tte tim be g or in e en m op sa e re th befo provide appear so! the agenda. in place? It doesn’t Footscray Road, lead n to the have had refrigeratio ocissue is the notice ng gi er em An s A few store holders it ha ow them concerning where which does not all rs de ol eh as le e m so troubles and this is st their fully eir premises. Hope r trucks parked again appears ei th e av le to d. rte curred outside of th so t of hours. This oblems will soon be warehouse space ou ey signed of these teething pr e mantra before th contradictory to th CAFES: ugh their leases. and refreshing altho an cle e ar s fe ca e nt Th te users entering the cted by the nonexis rs rall, the number of pa ve im O ugh g in be e ar ey th the old market altho wholesale r to r fo r ila ila sim sim is t is ke ch ar hi m opening time w charged for the still everyone is getting wer Market café is w Flo e no Th ). w s but not lo be rly e ea (se lly open in are some new face fu e pe er Th ho . ill ge w le t ivi bu t pr ehousing, being fitted ou ditional onsite war ad ith W y. an m November. se as fit outs are bers should increa m nu TRADING STANDS: completed. the through change is g in go ll sti ea ar e On y e license holders sa trading stands. Som

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SIDE N W O D THE

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staff don’t ministration me,” but d a re o st e As well, som r the “official closing ti ver o afte arrive until e else can’t park underc time : n n , Y o R am losi g they or any EARLY ENT n from 1.00 lding after c eds to e o ft h o , re rs o e st y u ir try of b and close to the now that the place ne The early en one a major disservice ers ek able y u ry e b v (7.30am). W t a logical and sustain imate it g le is doing e se e u b th g ing all l playin be cleaned uickly needed. disadvantag t thing. It is not a leve q rt a st e h h T g . ri ly resolution is g quick in doing the ss re d e d n a o needs or did some field and it nd 4.30am a m a 0 M THE .3 3 O R F es m S ti times are E g G in v A sa ylight IXED MESS get their da M S LED TO A H F ? p F u A d T e ix S m PERATION O that allows le IME WHEN o T h p o A lo T se u A The to Y t e T the mark NCERTAIN PORTANT. U buyers into IM ttention.

E a s R d e A e n S g warehousin e to ask what MESSAGE R A E m L ti C is it e b y Ma ments locked to the state buyer dicted and re p r happened e y m n a m t su mises, the tor tha With a hot om the pre fr y a by the opera e trading area w a y a w ble and th cars a long uncomforta e b coming into arly access? to rs a e ld not be ir e outlook app erous for many. It wou ing G IN T will lose the A R E g P n eth possibly da r all concerned if som N OF THE O IO T A IC L P P fo THE A a good look an e . b to r a R U L E S: e p goes wrong uld ap o rs w a e e tr p n p e a N S: c t a A detention do business than wh MUNICATIO M O C E phone t.

L e E rk T a to t has been in la p easier place ccurring at the new m ff m o c ig went sta no The other b llation of phone lines to have bee es from the operation lear a ed (very st ag nc lines. The in ys – they actually work ey just Mixed mess ertainty at a time whe ard (is a th w nc gu d issues; or one of four has led to u important. When one ere slow ; ha , it appears that n w a c y y n e a m th re ); a rs few messages . In addition esses s market use name?) tell t day another guard not happen DSL 2 lines and busin no t p id a d n a t a th ex ut of A lines – g and the n lp anyone.

Telstra ran o ck to the old ADSL 1 do one thin , then that doesn’t he a b siness n’t were forced are trying to run a bu tion a c says they ca li has p p a u e o hen y een th er if anyone ns w b d s n n . a o e fu h c , w I is ra g s. th n ’s ith rruptio nicatio first month d Coupled w without inte ached the telecommu place – ts after the n a in r o e p t ld ri o e h ro p o m cess t to k of de formally ap both the ac This appears far debacle tha e to th ly r p fo p a n a These older. ombudsm g reading! or license h on sense ke interestin a m on the lease rhetoric that “a comm ld u o c it the INTS different to ld be taken”.

ER BUT PO u BEEN HIGH O OPENING TIME, o E w V A h H c a D L g ro app TO N * COU h car parkin CTED DUE INTS. ample is wit sorted after ERE DEDU x e W EMERIT PO g D in D st N A re S g E in U e S b IS An inte y ll PARKING this efully, is fina which, hop f operation. How could at it so wh two month difficult? And to think pened so o n t e e e e mark have b th if e k li n e nse did be would have ortunately, common se too) !F tor on 3 August stance (for the opera in is st. u th g u in 31 A prevail opened on t e rk a m e and th 200 metres rks are over a p r many a c d le allenge for h c The disab a – re o sest st ability. from the clo ne someone with a dis lo a t people, le

THE VERDICT AFTER TWO MONTHS OF OPERATION:

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issue 29 oct 2015

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THE CREDIT SERVICE – WHAT IS HAPPENING? The long anticipated planned upgrade to the Melbourne Markets Credit Service (MMCS) is due to occur in early November which will provide a number of benefits for users in line with modern day practices.

STAGE 1: SELLERS TO DOWNLOAD DISTRIBUTION SUMMARY

WHAT IS THE UPGRADE?

HOW WILL THE SERVICE CHANGE?

The system will be held in a secure iCloud. This will help with flexibility for all users while maintaining security of information. The advantages for users is that you will be able to go to the new combined Fresh State and MMCS website at www.melbmcs.com.au , which will take you to a link to enable you to download your information at any time and from anywhere in the world.

The MMCS will continue its business as usual operation through the upgrade and a staged approach to some system changes will occur:

This is a long awaited upgrade for the MMCS, based on the successful model at the Brisbane Market.

REDUCING ERRORS ON SCHEDULES IN THE PAST SIX MONTHS, THE CREDIT SERVICE HAS BEEN CONCENTRATING ON REDUCING THE ERROR RATE ON SCHEDULES RECEIVED, BY WORKING WITH BUSINESSES TO REFINE PROCESSES. COMMON ISSUES IDENTIFIED HAVE BEEN: • WRONG ACCOUNT NUMBERS USED • NO ACCOUNT NUMBER BEING USED • SELLERS SENDING THE PREVIOUS WEEK’S SCHEDULE IN BY MISTAKE • INCLUDING NON MMCS USERS ON THE SCHEDULE • WRONG ADDITIONS ON SCHEDULES THE NEW SYSTEM UPGRADE COMBINED WITH CONTINUED USER TRAINING, WILL ASSIST IN REDUCING THIS ERROR RATE FURTHER WHICH IS A WIN-WIN FOR EVERYONE.

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1. T he first stage will be for sellers to download their Distribution Summary.

In this way, sellers will get used to using the facility first hand.

2. T he second stage will be that buyers can download their Billing Statements.

This stage is designed to get users used to logging in to the system and will alleviate the reliance on the mail system inevitably speeding up the process.

3. The third stage will be for the Buyer and Seller to lodge credit notes and short payments on line. Buyers and Sellers will be encouraged to communicate with each other regarding discrepancies and sort out any issues at the Billing Statement stage as opposed to the payment stage.

4. Training will be provided either in small groups or one on one if required, to assist with the transition.

5. T he Credit Service will move to EFT only payments. Approximately 70% of buyers are currently using this method of payment.

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STAGE 2: BUYERS CAN DOWNLOAD BILLING STATEMENTS

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STAGE 3: BUYER AND SELLER TO LODGE CREDIT NOTES AND SHORT PAYMENTS ONLINE

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STAGE 4: EFT PAYMENTS ONLY

The Melbourne Markets Credit Service is now in a new office at Store 36 at the Melbourne Market, located in the trading floor complex. Trading hours are from 6.00 am until 2.00 pm Monday to Friday.

Please come and visit the MMCS team and say hello.

New credit service applications are welcome – please inquire with the team.

Tel: 03 9408 6627 | Fax: 03 8405 3746 office@melbmcs.com.au | www.melbmcs.com.au

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issue 29 oct 2015

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THE 6TH ANNUAL GALA BALL WAS AGAIN FULL TO CAPACITY LAKESIDE AT THE CAROUSEL, ON A BALMY MELBOURNE EVENING IN OCTOBER.

Fresh State members and friends dressed up in their cocktail attire and really enjoyed celebrating what has been a mammoth year in our market history.

“What a night,” said Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler. “We put the Fresh State Ball back on the agenda six years ago in an effort to unite the Melbourne Market Wholesalers and it has gone from strength to strength”.

The Ball featured the presentation of annual Fresh State Awards and this year was able to hand over substantial fundraising cheques to charity. “Fresh State has a huge heart and takes its social responsibility very seriously,” continued Shane in relation to the charity fundraiser Market on the Move (see page 24 for more details).

The Fresh State Awards went off with a drum roll! We saw Premier Fruits Group nearly take a clean sweep of the

board picking up two awards, however no one could compete with Mr Bean winning the competitive Personality of the Year.

Once more the Young Marketeer of the Year walked away with the coveted prize to the 2016 Fresh Summit conference in the USA. This was generously provided by Fresh State as part of their commitment to encouraging young people in the industry to reach their full potential.

FRESH STATE OF AFFAIRS COMMEMORATIVE MAGAZINE LAUNCHED The launch of the Fresh State of Affairs Commemorative Magazine was another special moment on the night.

This Limited Edition publication celebrates 46 years at 542 Footscray Road, West Melbourne and captures the essence and history of the market. “A feature of the magazine is some never before published photographs of the construction of the Melbourne Wholesale Fruit and

Vegetable Market at Footscray Road” says Shane in the opening pages.

The magazine captured the attention of all guests who were wowed from the front cover to the back.

Limited copies are still available at the market cafes, the Fresh State Gas Station and the Fresh State Office located at store 36 but they won’t last long.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING FRESH STATE AWARD WINNERS: FRESH STATE WHOLESALE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Premier Fruits Group “To be recognised by our peers for our efforts over the last 12 months is very satisfying.

As a proud member, we would like to thank Fresh State, the sponsors and everybody involved in organising the Fresh State Ball.” Steven Skruzny, General Manager (Melbourne), Premier Fruits Group.

PETER SILK – THIS IS YOUR LIFE. FRESH STATE PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR: Ross (Mr Bean) Ferrinda Ferrinda Fresh “I was pretty shocked to receive this award. When you’re the boss, you are sailing the ship and you don’t expect a pat on the back. It feels good to be recognised by my peers at Fresh State.”

FRESH STATE YOUNG MARKETEER OF THE YEAR: Joe Manariti Premier Fruits Group “It was a privilege to win the Fresh State Young Marketeer of the Year. I have always wanted to go to Fresh Summit and am looking forward to the experience. Bring on 2016!”

“It is a great honour to be recognised by Fresh State and the industry. Market hours are tough but can be rewarding after all these years. I would like to thank my wife Leonie for her continued support and Fresh State for presenting me with this accolade.”

This is your life captured everyone’s attention as they waited with baited breath on who the recipient would be …

“This person is a popular face and name at the Melbourne Wholesale Market. He is a third generation wholesaler and has been working in the market for the last forty years” Shane announced. “Peter Silk – this is Your Life”.

The room went silent as Peter, with his wife Leonie, were honoured for Peter’s dedicated involvement in the industry and at Fresh State during his time at the market. This was additionally poignant with Silk Bros closing its trading doors after celebrating its 100th birthday this year (see page 18 for a special feature on the Silk Dynasty).

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR FRESH STATE GALA BALL 2015 SPONSORS:

2015

2015

A new Market location means new opportunities for business owners and Market workers with the upcoming opening of a new VIA Network office at Epping.

COMING SOON TO EPPING

The VIA Network partners with training providers, industry bodies and employers in a number of industries to provide labour hire, staff development and training opportunities across Australia.

Since it’s founding in 2012, Community Training Initiatives (CTI) has grown to meet the needs of students and businesses across Australia.

As part of that growth, CTI has become the VIA Network.

With a strong focus on safety and risk reduction, the VIA Network covers all legal responsibilities for clients and ensures that all workers meet Fair Work Australia and WorkSAFE requirements.

Talk to The VIA Network about your recruitment and staffing needs to discover how we can help your business.

.AU OM K.C

Through our training partners, the VIA Network offers Melbourne Wholesale Markets businesses on-site training in a number of qualifications, including Warehouse Operations, Work Health and Safety and Business.

You can find the VIA Network in the Market Administration Building, to the left as you enter through the main doors.

OR

By operating from the Market Admin Building, the VIA Network is able to provide training on-site and work with workers and employers to ensure seamless integration of new and temporary staff.

Forklift Refresher Courses are also available. These courses provide on-site training to Markets staff, ensuring all operators are familiar with the machines and environment of the Melbourne Wholesale Markets.

Drop in to see the new VIA Network facilities and have a chat to our friendly staff to find out what the VIA Network can do for you and your business.

ETW

> Picker / Packers > Cashiers > Admin Workers > Forklift and Truck Drivers > Warehouse Managers

> Forklift Trucks (including Order-Picking Forklift Trucks) > Medium and Heavy Rigid Trucks

New changes mean new challenges and, with a little help from the VIA Network, new opportunities for success.

AN

LABOUR HIRE AND RECRUITMENT The VIA Network provides comprehensive labour hire and recruitment solutions and can help you source, develop and maintain a wide range of workers. We have assisted with the recruitment of:

The VIA Network’s training partners also provide training and licensing for machine operators and drivers on a number of machine and vehicle types, including:

If you need training in a specific piece of software, or would like on-site, tailored, training, talk to the staff at the VIA Network to see what options are available.

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> Over 100 Nationally Accredited Training Courses > Labour Hire and Recruitment Services > Workforce Development and Skills Assessment

TRAINING From Business to Warehouse Operations, the VIA Network partners with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to provide nationally accredited qualifications at Certificate, Diploma and licence levels.

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The VIA Network provides businesses and students access to a wide range of exciting services and opportunities:

Come into the VIA Network offices to find out what courses we have on offer.

IT SUPPORT AND TRAINING If you have IT issues or need training in a software package, the VIA Network can help with that, too.

The VIA Network partners with Wizard Corporate Training to provide high-quality professional development and IT training solutions to get you up to speed.

If you’re in need of a meeting room or training Courses are constantly running space, the VIA in a variety of topics, including: Network can help you > Microsoft Office out. Rooms available > iPad operation > Adobe Creative Suite for hire are suitable for conducting training and classes, presentations, lectures, and meetings.

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ABRAHAM

THE SILK BROS DYNASTY Silk Bros are an iconic wholesaling business spanning three generations. With multicultural roots from Poland, Ireland and France, they were at one time a dominating force in the Melbourne wholesale industry and beyond, through shrewd investment and a lot of hard work.

Their story exposes the importance of succession planning in business and the outcome when an industry does not support a modern day lifestyle - risking the loss of intergenerational experience, history and passion.

MOSES ZIEDEN (SILK)

HYMAN SILK

ISRAEL SILK

ABRAHAM SILK

KEVIN SILK

MICHAEL SILK

PETER SILK

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KEVIN

MICHAEL

PETER

THE END OF AN ERA Silk Bros celebrated their historic 100th year in operation in 2015 and also the end of an era at the Melbourne Market. This is their story …

Abraham (Abe) Gershom Silk was the youngest of three boys, Hyman (Hymi) and Israel (Isaac). Their father, Moses had immigrated to Australia from Poland in the 1870’s. His original surname was Zeiden but as was the common

Adelaide and Isaac moved to Sydney and opened an arm of the business known as Silk Bros Interstate Traders.

Meanwhile, Abe and Hymi concentrated on the Melbourne business and began dabbling in horse racing. As well as owning a substantial property portfolio around Melbourne (at one stage Abe owned over 30 properties), the brothers invested in renowned racing stud Glen Deven in Werribee (now a housing estate).

THE THREE AUSTRALIAN BORN BROTHERS STARTED A BUSINESS AT THE QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET KNOWN AS SILK BROS IN 1915 AS FRUIT MERCHANTS AND COMMISSION AGENTS, AFTER BEING INVOLVED IN MARKET LIFE FOR THE PREVIOUS TWELVE YEARS. practice with immigrants of the time, his surname was changed to Silk to make it easier to pronounce. Zeiden translates roughly to Silk in English.

The three Australian-born brothers started a business at the Queen Victoria Market known as Silk Bros in 1915, as fruit merchants and commission agents, after being involved in market life for the previous twelve years. “They sold a billion bananas,” recalls Abe’s grandson and third generation wholesaler Peter Silk.

The family was entrepreneurial for the time and not content to rest on their laurels. They opened up a Silk Bros in

They had huge success in racing with a champion horse called Carbon Copy who won the Cox Plate, AJC Derby and Sydney Cup. “Abe and Hymie would come into the market after being at the racetrack with pockets of cash,” says Michael Silk, Abe’s grandson and Melbourne Market veteran of 27 years.

“They would empty all the money out of their pockets for their book keeper, Miss Day to count”.

Abe developed one of the biggest banana businesses in Victoria employing 175 people at one time and was the first Victorian Wholesaler to import bananas from Northern Queensland.

“At the time all Victorian Wholesalers were supporting the New South Wales industry and were skeptical about the newer banana areas in Northern Queensland”, remembers Peter. “But Abe knew better. A cyclone wiped out the New South Wales crop and the rest is history”. Silk Bros became known as the Banana Kings.

Continuing in their entrepreneurial style, the banana side of the Silk Bros business was sold to COD Fruit Marketing in Queensland and the remainder became Silks Vegetables Pty Ltd from 1952.

Abe met and married Kathleen, and they had three children, two older girls - Joan and Judith and a son named Kevin. Kevin studied law and become a solicitor but was intent on following in his father’s footsteps, so in the early 1950’s came to work in the market. He married a French provincial girl named Francoise (affectionately known as Tikki) who he met at a neighbouring high school in inner Melbourne and they had eight children.

Unfortunately, the tax man caught up with the brothers in the 1960’s after an audit derailed some of their fortune, but Abe was a shrewd businessman.

He was out of the market at around 60 years old with a lot of success under his belt and a son who wanted to work in the market. Hymi did not have a child willing to work in the market and when

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he retired, like his other brother Isaac, the line stopped.

Kevin was the only son left flying the Silk banner and took over the business Silk Vegetables Pty Ltd, concentrating on three areas – providoring, exports and the market stand. Like his father before him, Kevin was also known for wearing the telltale suit and tie around the market. In 1970, Kevin changed the name to Silk Bros (Melb) Pty Ltd to accommodate his family.

He developed an export trade to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands (mainly potatoes, onions, citrus and apples – the popular staples of the day) and picked up government providoring contracts.

In 1977, Kevin’s son, Peter had just completed a hospitality course and like his father, started his apprenticeship in the market the next day. At the time, they were selling mainly vegetables and Murray Bridge Tomatoes.

“The contracting and export side of things had become very competitive” remembers Michael, Kevin’s eldest son who joined the business in 1988.

“We tried to resurrect the export side of the business but it just wasn’t viable so we made the decision to stick to the market floor”. Michael, a qualified accountant, had worked for ten years in private practice before also joining the family business. “Dad suggested I work in the office while Peter manned the stands and it has been that way ever since”.

Kevin Silk was an active member of the Melbourne Market community.

He was the Vice President of the Victorian Chamber of Fresh Produce Wholesalers from 1975 to 1977 and was also awarded a Life Membership.

Abe (Kevin’s father) had also been awarded a Life Membership for his involvement in the Wholesale Fruit Merchant’s Association, which later became known as the Victorian Chamber. Kevin retired in 1985 and handed over the business to Peter to manage with the strong support of Michael.

Kevin continued to follow his passion for property investments and horse racing – a gene carried down the Silk line. He owned a successful racehorse called Naturalism who won two group one races and came

second in nine group one races.

He died of Parkinson’s Disease at the age of 75 years.

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Silk Bros continued to evolve its produce lines as opportunities and gaps appeared in the market. They developed their mango line and were one of the first wholesalers to source the fruit from the Northern Territory as well as selling capsicums, tomatoes and zucchinis from Northern Queensland.

This then morphed into

THERE IS NO SENTIMENT IN BUSINESS IN THIS INDUSTRY WHEN FAMILY DON’T WANT TO BE INVOLVED … THE TIMING WAS RIGHT WITH THE MOVE TO EPPING TO WIND DOWN. passionfruit, pineapples and subtropical fruit.

Peter, a chip of the old block (except he did not wear a suit and tie), also served on the Victorian Chamber of Fresh Produce Wholesalers (now known as Fresh State) from 1985 to 1996 including a four year term as President. This year Peter was awarded the ‘This is Your Life’ accolade from Fresh State recognising his contribution and dedication to the industry and to Fresh State.

Peter married high school sweetheart Leonie and they had three boys. The boys all tried the market lifestyle over the years but it wasn’t for them and the hope for a fourth generation of Silk Bros quickly faded.

“The current market hours are killing our industry and any new blood,” Peter sadly admits. “My boys didn’t want to work these hours – they are just unrealistic to a modern lifestyle.”

With Michael also not having any offspring to succeed in the family business a tough decision was made.

“There is no sentiment in business in this industry when family don’t want to be involved,” says Peter. “The timing was right with the move to Epping to wind down”.

And so, after 100 years in operation, Silk Bros (Melb) Pty Ltd have now closed their doors and with them the end of a Silk Dynasty. Luckily Peter and Michael are happy to share their knowledge and experience and have joined AMV Fresh to help them expand their business before they retire like their father and grandfather before them.

Above: an advertisement placed in The Fruit World of Australasia (1 January 1919) advising they were the ‘Specialists in the Fruit Business – The Physician must know his job; so must the Chemist; so must the Fruitgrower; and so must the Fruit Salesman,’ it states.

21

4 12 1

LUCKY NUMBERS The saddlecloth numbers 4 and 12 have won the Melbourne Cup a record 11 times each.

If you’re struggling to find a horse to back, go 4 or 12.

2 10

KIDDING AROUND Peter St Albans is the youngest jockey to win the Melbourne Cup – he was only 12 years, 357 days old, riding Briseis, in 1876.

BAYWATCH 3

QUICKEST CUP The fastest winning Melbourne Cup time was run in 3 minutes, 16.3 seconds by Kingston Rule in 1990.

Bay (reddish-brown) coloured horses have proven winners with 66 Melbourne Cup victories. Brown horses make up for 35 wins and chestnuts count for 34 wins, with 6 greys, 3 blacks and 7 brown/bay/black winners making up the difference.

10 TOP 10

MELBOURNE CUP

9

FACTS

4

BACK TO BLACK 17 cup-winning jockeys have worn black as their main colour, the last, however, being George Podmore on Evening Peal in 1956. Navy blue and royal blue come second with 14 wins.

SCALE OF ECONOMY Prize money in 1861 was £1,420. In 2012 it was $6,200,000.

8 FIRST LADY Maree Lyndon was the first female jockey to ride in the cup on Argonaut Style in 1987, she ran second last in the 21 horse field.

WITH THE MELBOURNE CUP JUST AROUND THE CORNER AND THE SPRING RACING CARNIVAL IN FULL SWING, HERE ARE SOME FACTS AND FIGURES YOU MAY NOT KNOW …

Source: www.au.timeout.com

5 THIRD TIME (very) LUCKY Until 2005 only two horses had won the Melbourne Cup twice: Archer (1861, 1862) and Peter Pan (1932, 1934). Makybe Diva was the first horse to win the Cup three times (2003, 2004, 2005).

7

FASCINATING (if you’re a Milliner) Nearly 52,000 hats and fascinators were bought for the 2009 Melbourne Cup.

6 TICKING TROPHY The original Melbourne Cup trophy was a handbeaten gold watch – won by Archer in 1861.

22

OF AFFAIRS

issue 29 oct 2015

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

2014 Each year a young Fresh State Member in the Melbourne Market is awarded the Fresh State Young Marketeer Award which includes an all expenses paid trip to visit the Fresh Summit Conference in the USA.

PMA FRESH SUMMIT

In 2014, Mark Grillo from Latorre’s Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers was awarded this privilege and has provided the following update to inspire colleagues in the market to jump out of their comfort zone and see what the rest of the world is up to in the fresh produce space.

2014

DISPLAY STANDS WERE AMAZING WITH MANY COOKING WITH THEIR PRODUCE OR WITH FRESH FOOD DISPLAYS THAT INCLUDED THEIR PRODUCE AS MASTERPIECES.

BY FRESH STATE 2013 YOUNG MARKETEER OF THE YEAR, MARK GRILLO

The main thing that struck me was the amount of packaging concepts and innovation – from farming through to retail options.

A lot of produce in the USA is pre packed and most of this happens “ATTENDING FRESH SUMMIT MADE ME REALISE THAT on the farm.

MARKETING IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE CONTINUOUS The GROWTH IN OUR BUSINESSES TODAY AND INTO THE FUTURE.” technology and machinery on display also blew me away.

From a In October of 2014, I was extremely machine that has the ability to cut just fortunate to be in Anaheim for the PMA about anything using water jets, to produce Fresh Summit Conference thanks to Fresh graters that looked like they came from State. It was an experience that I will outer space with their length, width and remember for the rest of my life and that I ability to do everything without human recommend to anyone that is involved in interference. our industry.

From the Welcoming Dinner to the last day of the Trade Show, everything was organised exceptionally well, and it was an experience that opened my mind to the future possibilities that we can implement in our business.

Thank you to Fresh State and all the members for their support and assistance.

I hope that we can continue to keep this program in the future for all young people to strive to win and experience everything that Fresh Summit has to offer.

DID YOU KNOW? Fresh Summit 2014 had a record breaking 22,400+ attendees – including 1,159 retailers and 1,090 exhibiting companies making it the largest fresh produce conference in the world.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION OF AFFAIRS

$350* ½ page $540* Full page $950* ¼ page

Spread some festive cheer and place OF AFFAIRS a Christmas message in our special Christmas edition OF AFFAIRS of our magazine, Fresh State of Affairs

* Prices are exclusive of GST.

Christmas edition due out on OF AFFAIRS12 December 2015

To book your Christmas message, contact Sally at the Fresh State Office on 03 9408 6627 by 20 November 2015 or send an email to Sally at sallyp@freshstate.com.au

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24

OF AFFAIRS

issue 29 oct 2015

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

THE MELBOURNE MARKET DIGS DEEP The brainchild of Market on the Move was the forklift procession (on trucks) that transported forks from Footscray Road to Epping raising a substantial amount towards the final tally.

The Melbourne Market community were able to see the results of their hard work at the Fresh State Ball in October where final cheques were handed over to the charities for Market on the Move.

THE CHARITIES WERE CHOSEN BECAUSE THEY WERE INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING KIDS IN NEED WHICH WAS IMPORTANT TO THE MARKET COMMUNITY WHO HAVE STRONG FAMILY CONNECTIONS.

“It was with great pleasure that we were able to present the sum of $22,000 to both Very Special Kids and the 20th Man Youth Fund” said Shane Schnitzler, Fresh State President. “We have worked hard to raise these funds in a variety of ways and also raise the profile of both charities.” Shane said the charities were chosen because they were instrumental in helping kids in need which was important to the market community who have strong family connections. “I would like to thank the market community and all of our sponsors for digging deep to contribute to this initiative” continued Shane.

Market on the Move Committee Chairman and Fresh State Vice President Joe Amalfi was also proud to be part of the fundraising effort. “It was great to see Fresh State, the Melbourne Market Authority and the Melbourne Market Lions Club all coming together to raise as much money as possible”, he said. “We will continue this partnership and our fundraising efforts by hosting the Melbourne Market Golf Day which will be held early in 2016 to raise funds for the Debra Foundation.”

The very popular Market on the Move vests proudly sponsored

by Toyota Material Handling and Continental Tyres.

25

Fresh State Vice President Joe Amalfi with the 20th Man Youth Fund Founder Les Twentyman and Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler presenting a cheque for $22,000.

“We are very grateful for Market on the Move’s support of the 20th Man Fund. These funds will assist our youth in a number of ways from getting them involved in sporting programs to putting them through our Youth Leadership Personal Development Program.”

Addy Wetzler from Very Special Kids accepts the $22,000 cheque from Fresh State Vice President Joe Amalfi and Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler.

“Very Special Kids is grateful for the generous support of Fresh State and the Melbourne Market Authority.

The $22,000 will help us to continue providing freeof-charge services and support to many than 900 Victorian families – including several who are part of the Market community.”

Epping Plaza Hotel Cnr High & Cooper Streets, Epping Ph: (03) 9408 9309 www.eppingplazahotel.com.au

Iceland owners Chashampal Gill and Ravi Prasad who bring together a combined experience of over 20 years in transport and all areas of cold storage management

STATE OF THE ART COLD STORAGE ON OUR DOORSTEP Moving the Melbourne Market to Epping has had a big impact on everyone in the fresh produce industry in Victoria. Wholesalers, retailers, growers and associated businesses all continue to adapt to the new location and with that brings some unexpected opportunities.

Iceland Cold Storage opened its $18 million temperature controlled facility in August 2015

Ravi Prasad, joint business owner of Iceland. “We have both cold storage and warehouse facilities so we can accommodate all varieties of produce ensuring that it is kept as fresh as possible.”

Melbourne Market wholesaler Joe Brancatisano (pictured) from VB Sculli met Ravi and his business partner Chas Gill during the construction of the new Iceland Cold Storage premises.

Iceland is ideal for wholesalers, growers or retailers to use as it is so close to the market. and is the largest cold storage facility in the northern suburbs.

The purposely designed Ammonia Refrigeration plant along with other innovative energy efficiency techniques ensures the facility runs effectively and efficiently.

The new facility is capable of holding 10,000 frozen pallets at any one time and with six loading docks, the time to load and unload is minimized. In addition, the facility includes six Blast Freezers with the capacity to freeze 950 tonnes a day.

“Iceland is ideal for wholesalers, growers or retailers to use as it is so close to the market,” says

“It was pure luck to have Iceland build opposite the VB Sculli warehouse” says Joe. “We now use their chilled storage facilities to complement our warehouse facilities and it couldn’t be better.” Joe says with the facility so close to the Market, tenants should come across the road and check out what Iceland has to offer. “It has everything here,” continues Joe. “There is no need to travel long distances or set up your own cold storage when we have such perfect facilities right on our doorstep.”

BENEFITS OF USING ICELAND COLD STORAGE INCLUDE: > Ability to hold 10,000 frozen pallets at one time > Six loading docks > Six Blast Freezers > AQIS Quarantine inspections > Shrink wrapping > Transport and export documentation > 24/7 online monitoring of temperatures in all chambers > Access to inventory information reported on a daily/weekly basis via the web system > Security/Surveillance > Warehouse management system

Iceland Cold Storage 81 Gateway Boulevard Epping VIC 3076 | T: 9437 9444 | F: 9437 9446 | W: ilcs.com.au

27

Q&A:

GRANT NICHOL Grant Nichol is a man of mystery no more! Behind his day job in the fresh produce industry, Grant is a well-travelled, past World Champion and World Record Holder.

WORKS: As a Director and Wholesale Manager at Flavorite Marketing.

SUBURB WHERE I LIVE: Plenty – only a 17 minute drive from Epping!

MOST OF MY DAY IS SPENT: In the market in the early morning and then off to Ravenhall where Flavorite have a warehouse and office facility.

THE FOOTBALL TEAM I BARRACK FOR IS: St Kilda.

THE QUALITY I RESPECT MOST IN AN EMPLOYEE IS: Trustworthiness, punctuality and hardworking.

AS I HAVE GROWN OLDER I HAVE LEARNT: You shouldn’t always judge a person by the first impression.

IN MY SPARE TIME I ENJOY: Skydiving and snow skiing but most of all spending time with my family.

MY FIRST JOB WAS: Working in the market with my Dad in the school holidays when I was about 12 years old.

THE ASPECT OF MY JOB I IIKE THE MOST IS: The ever changing trading environment which keeps you on your toes.

THE THING I DISLIKE THE MOST IS: Chasing pallets and debts.

THE PLACE IN THE WORLD I WOULD MOST LIKE TO GO IS: Back to Africa. I love the people, animals and landscape.

THE THING A LOT OF PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME IS: I am scared of heights!

MY FAVOURITE FRUIT OR VEGETABLE IS: The Jazz or Kanzi Apple and Chinese Broccoli.

IN TOTAL, GRANT HAS COMPLETED FIVE AND A HALF THOUSAND JUMPS SINCE HE WAS 20 YEARS OLD. determined formations in sequence while being filmed by a free form photographer.

This year, Grant was part of the Australian World Record when 119 Australians jumped over the Perris Valley in California.

Grant started working in the market full time at the age of 16 years in the family’s business A Nichol & Sons. However it wasn’t until four years later that he tried something that would shape his future in more ways than one.

Grant, with a group of mates decided they would give sky diving a go and after the first jump he became addicted.

Specialising in formation skydiving, Grant made the Australian Team and decided to leave the market for two years to follow his dream.

Formation skydiving is an event where multiple skydivers complete pre-

This took him to Empuriabrava in Spain in 1998, where the Australian Team came first in the World Cup in the 16 way sequential formation skydiving event.

The win was also the world record for the next eight years.

Skydiving runs in the family with Grant’s wife Julie also in the same Australian Team, and their two boys Lachlan aged 16 years and Liam aged 13 years completing their first tandem jump earlier this year.

Skydiving has taken Grant all around the world. He has been to Slovakia, Russia and Thailand (where his team

still hold their 2006 World Record formation jump with 400 people), but his favourite place to jump is Florida because of the people, weather and the specialised aircraft. The 2006 World Record used five Hercules flying in formation from 25,000 feet.

In total, Grant has completed five and a half thousand jumps since he was 20 years old.

After completing his two year tour of duty around the world and up in the skies, Grant landed back in the market and now heads up the wholesale division of Flavorite Marketing at the Melbourne Market, jumping in record breaking attempts when time permits.

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