Fresh State of Affairs Magazine issue 38

2017

38

OF AFFAIR

S

aug

DANDY FRESH

PLANNING PERMIT ON SHAKY GROUND

2

issue 38 aug 2017 ISSN: 1838-7829

OF AFFAIRS

w

on s ’ t ha

OF AFFAIRS

04

CONTENTS 02 What’s on 03 President’s message 08 Gazzola farms 12 Minister's visit to market 14 Around the markets 16 Ten ways to ditch the screen 18 Market wins. Market fails 20 Fennel 22 Recipe 24 Market Spotlight –

DANDENONG MARKET Questions asked over developing in a Green Wedge Zone

OF AFFAIRS

06

LOS ANGELES OF AFFAIRS

PRODUCE MARKET

Comparisons with The Melbourne Market

Organic Growers Group

26 Fresh State Gala Ball

10

ADVERTISING

Celebrating 30 years with Fresh State

11 Toyota Material Handling 13 MMCS 23 MIB 27 Toyota Material Handling 28 Bayford Volkswagen Epping

PUBLISHED BY:

freshstate.com.au tel: 03 9408 6627

TONY NIGRO

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Jason Cooper jason@freshstate.com.au

DESIGN: Flying Dog Designs fddesigns.com.au

PRINT: Revolution Print revolutionprint.com.au

EDITOR / ADVERTISING: Bernadette Kelly comms@freshstate.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Bernadette Kelly

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

PROOFING: Tony Nigro tonyn@freshstate.com.au

3

s ’ t n e Presid MESSAGE

Welcome to a new edition of Fresh State of Affairs as we shiver through another Winter in the dark here at the market.

It’s comforting to know the shortest day is over and warmer weather is on its way.

businesses offer a great example of entrepreneurial excellence.

We revisit the Dandenong Market proposal. The City of Dandenong has recently approved a planning permit application that would see this development go ahead in a green wedge zone. Our article on pages 4 and 5 raises some questions about the council’s decision making process.

There’s always something happening in the market, and as usual, Fresh State staff are busy working for our members to make a difference THE CITY OF DANDENONG HAS wherever RECENTLY APPROVED A PLANNING possible. We like to offer Fresh PERMIT APPLICATION THAT WOULD State benefits to members in all SEE THIS DEVELOPMENT GO AHEAD kinds of ways and IN A GREEN WEDGE ZONE. this magazine offers excellent value in advertising to a targeted There’s not long to go now until we audience. For advertising specs and all get dressed up and enjoy the 2017 prices, contact Bernadette at Fresh Fresh State Gala Ball. If you have been State. meaning to book but think you may In this edition we feature successful wholesaler and grower, Gazzola Farms, and we focus the market spotlight on The Organic Grower’s Group. Although based on very different models, both

I for one am looking forward to the chance to catch up with everybody outside of the market for some wining, dining and dancing. And let’s not forget the Fresh State Awards.

Who among our fantastic market community will take home the trophies for each category? Hope to see you all there on the night!

Shane Schnitzler President Fresh State Ltd.

have left your run too late, I would suggest you contact the office. You might be lucky enough to grab a last minute booking if we still have space available.

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 2017

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

4

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

OF AFFAIRS

DANDENONG MARKET OF AFFAIRS

IS THERE AN ULTERIOR MOTIVE?

THERE HAS BEEN NO PROPER RISK ASSESSMENT UNDERTAKEN REGARDING THE SITE BEING LOCATED IN A LOW LYING FLOOD PRONE AREA.

5

In May 2016, Fresh State of Affairs raised questions about the viability and commercial sense of a proposed second wholesale fresh produce market, to be located in the Greater City of Dandenong. The proposal has now progressed to planning application stage, and on June 26 was presented to the Dandenong City Council.

I

n summary the application proposes the development and use of the site for a market, rural industry, car parking reduction and alteration of access to a road in a road zone.The site in question is a 50 hectare allotment of ‘green wedge’ zoned land at 84 Harwood Road, Bangholme.

The ‘rural industry’ tag seems a questionable way to describe the development, which includes market stalls, shelter sheds, administration buildings, a café, warehouses, cold storage, onsite waste management and a sterilization facility.

There were a number of objections to the application, including concerns regarding hazardous materials, contamination of ground water, flooding, impact on rural amenities and increased traffic to the area, all of which were negated by the town planner via the implementation of various conditions attached to the permit.

Councillor Sean O’Reilly spoke in support of the application, citing jobs as the advantages to the local area in having such a facility. In contrast, Councillor Matthew Kirwan spoke at length against the proposal. He noted the fact that the development; includes major aspects that are contradictory to ‘green wedge’ zone use; falls within a buffer zone for the eastern wastewater treatment plant; is a ‘large scale commercial industrial operation that should be located in a commercial industrial zone; and there has been no proper risk assessment undertaken regarding the site being located in a low lying flood prone area.

Despite the stated opposition, the planning permit was granted with a vote of 6 in favour and 2 opposed, subject to 41 conditions, among

them amendments to plans, a storm water drainage plan, a sustainability management plan, waste, noise, and landscaping conditions and a number of plans to satisfy Vic Roads and Melbourne Water requirements around drainage and access roads.

At a follow up council meeting on 10 July, an attempt was made

by Councillor Kirwan to overturn the planning decision. A motion of rescission was raised but was rejected by a majority vote.

AN ORGANISATION KNOWN AS ‘DEFENDERS OF THE GREEN WEDGE’ HAVE ANNOUNCED PLANS TO DISPUTE THE COUNCIL DECISION IN A VCAT CHALLENGE. AS THIS IS AN ISSUE THAT MAY IMPACT OUR MEMBERS, FRESH STATE WILL BE KEEPING AN EYE ON FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS.

This planned development in a green wedge zone raises a number of questions. Surely the council planning department recognizes that the level of use proposed is hardly rural industry.

Why would a majority of councillors go against their own planning guidelines to approve such an obviously industrial development in a green wedge zone?

Planning permissions aside, running two large scale wholesale produce markets in the one state hardly seems viable and if the Dandenong venture fails, such a large scale facility would be ripe for re-purposing to other industrial type enterprises. It would be naïve to think the developers had not considered every aspect of commercial viability, which raises yet another question. Between the pages of this particular planning application, could there be a hidden agenda lurking?

FURTHER INFORMATION Listen to the podcasts for both meetings at: http://www.greaterdandenong.com/ section/25839/council-meetings-live ore information about the M application and permit conditions can be found on pages 51-94 of the council meeting agenda on this link: http://www.greaterdandenong.com/ document/31192/council-agenda26-june-2017 inutes for both meetings can be M viewed here: http://www.greaterdandenong.com/ document/31192/council-minutes26-june-2017

6

KA SZ GORAJEK

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

YOU SAY TOMAYTO I SAY TOMAHHTO OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

U

L

Lukasz Gorajek once worked in the Australian fresh produce industry at The Melbourne Market for Avanti Produce.

He now works as a Strategic Operations Manager for Valley Fruit and Produce, Los Angeles. This is the first of two articles, where Lukasz shares his experience with his old colleagues here in Melbourne.

I

t’s been over three years since I thanked the team at Avanti Fresh Produce, packed my bags, and moved my fruit ‘n’ veg career to sunny Los Angeles, California.

In this, the first of two articles for Fresh State of Affairs, I hope to give you an insight into the Los Angeles Wholesale Produce Market (LAWPM) in Downtown LA. The first thing I suspect produce people from Australia would notice – long before any market visit – is the absence of a greengrocer scene as we know it.

LAWPM opened in 1986 and continues to be the home of head office and the biggest division. LAWPM has fewer wholesalers than at the Melbourne Market – both Footscray Road and Epping – with my walkthrough counting 31. However, on average, they are much larger in size.

Southern California’s produce consumers are roughly equal in number to Australia’s whole population!

The market is privately owned, 80% of which is in the hands of a handful of current and former wholesale business owners. Australian wholesalers may be interested to know that trade starts early

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S PRODUCE CONSUMERS ARE ROUGHLY EQUAL IN NUMBER TO AUSTRALIA’S WHOLE POPULATION! 9th street market 1912 1926 1958

‘Independent retail’ means something a little different to Angelinos, the local term for local people. Apart from farmers’ markets and the rapidly yuppie-fying Grand Central Market, I am yet to find a true fruit shop anywhere (butchers, fishmongers, and chicken shops are also missing). It appears that fresh produce can only reliably be found in supermarkets.

here, with a number of us manning our sales desks before 1am!

LAWPM is feeling the challenge of maintaining relevance in the fresh produce community. Similar to what I experienced in Australia, big accounts are increasingly going direct. With these evolving purchasing habits, the market’s position as the industry centrepiece has now dissolved.

7

Instead of being the preferred destination for a crop, the market is increasingly used as a dumping ground for many: a place for overs in times of glut, and for rejections with no home. The neighbouring 7th Street Produce Market – another wholesale market, operating since 1918 and LAWPM’s predecessor – does not help our sector. It’s generally the destination of produce on its last legs – produce whose smell often welcomes you at the gate!

Being within five minutes of the CBD, the baby boomer market owners are well aware of the skyrocketing value of their investment, and are said to be thinking of their exit. Many believe we have less than ten years before we all have to pack up and do business elsewhere.

Melbourne wholesalers may be interested to know, there is no organized conversation as to what the next step is going to be for our community!

TRADE STARTS EARLY HERE, WITH A NUMBER OF US MANNING OUR SALES DESKS BEFORE 1AM!

8

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

From left: The four Gazzolas – Andrew, Colin, Luis (father) and Paul.

Operating as wholesalers from store numbers 56-60, Gazzola Farms are an established presence in the Melbourne Market. Dig a little deeper and you’ll find a rich and proud history of a family who have been quite literally ‘getting their hands dirty’ for over 90 years.

T

he Gazzola association with the vegetable industry began way back in 1925, when brothers-in-law, Matteo Gazzola, and Dominic Favero, along with three other men, migrated from the village of Bassano Del Grappa, in the Veneto region of Italy.

As government sponsored migrants, the five men began growing potatoes in the swamp area of Iona, near Garfield. They farmed potatoes for two years, until a severe black frost ruined the crop and sent them all broke. Together, the five men walked all the way to Melbourne, then parted company.

Matteo and Dominic worked outside the industry for a few years before re-establishing themselves as vegetable growers on a 72 acre property in Narre Warren South in 1932. The brothers-in-law won the land via a government tender. Only 35 acres was viable growing land, with the remaining acres in a floodplain. Back then, their equipment consisted of two horses. In 1939, when war broke out, the government confiscated their Rio delivery truck, with the only compensation an old truck as a replacement.

In 1954 Matteo Gazzola’s son, Luis, left school and worked on the farm with his brother, Aldo, and cousins. Around that time they were selling produce at the Vic Market. In 1984, the Favero / Gazzola partnership dissolved and the two families went their separate ways.

Luis and his three sons went into the Footscray market in 1985. They worked briefly for Orlando Luciano, then began their own business, which they ran for 3 years.

In 1989 the family bought a Cane farm in Bundaberg.

Luis’ second son Colin, aged 21, moved up and was joined shortly afterwards by his new wife Stella. Later in the same year the Market Business was sold and Paul, aged 23, also moved to Bundaberg with his new wife Joanne on a second Cane Farm. While in Bundaberg they also grew Water Melons, Capsicums, Zucchini, Asparagas & Avocadoes. During this time Luis and youngest son Andrew remained based in Victoria, always looking for land to continue the family tradition of growing vegetables.

In 1991, 300 acres of pasture land was acquired at Somerville. Gradually, a market garden was established. Over time, surrounding properties were acquired until the farm grew to its current size of 600 acres. In 1995 the business was expanded to include property in Boneo, now totaling 380 acres.

These days, the Gazzola Farms enterprise is a large scale grower’s paradise. Crops are rotated between sites, growing cos and iceberg lettuce, celery, broccoli, and asian vegetables. Apart from the iceberg, which is not grown in winter, all crops are year round.

9

Luis is semi-retired and the day-to-day management is split among his three sons. Colin oversees the Boneo site.

Paul and Andrew look after Somerville. Gazzola Farms services all the major interstate markets, processors, and both major retailers. The business employs 85 staff. Eight people are employed to run the market stores at Epping.

‘Growing veggies is the easy part,’ says Paul, when asked about business challenges. ‘These days a major issue is compliance. Quality Assurance, OH&S, customer requirements, record keeping and associated costs are a constant challenge. We have three office staff, and systems in place to make the administration job easier. When it comes to quality assurance, supermarket requirements change constantly.

‘Like any business, GAZZOLA FARMS finding good labour SERVICES ALL THE is a challenge. We are MAJOR INTERSTATE lucky to have key staff that are loyal and long MARKETS, serving,’ he says. ‘The PROCESSORS, focus and investment AND BOTH MAJOR has been in increasing production and RETAILERS. making jobs easier for staff by choosing the right equipment to ease labor and speed up production.

‘We’re always at the mercy of the weather. It dictates what we can do each day and the quality of our product. One of the things we are known for is the consistent presentation of a quality product. Maintaining that reputation is a vital part of our business.’

Out in the field at Somerville, it’s obvious that Gazzola Farms is a high standard operation. The eye is greeted by rows upon rows of fertile beds and healthy produce, and an array of hightech and custom built equipment to ensure the produce is processed and packed for ultimate freshness and quality.

At the market the business has grown to meet customer demand. In addition to the lines they grow themselves, they are part of a network of quality growers, which gives them access to a year round supply of chosen lines, and the business prides itself on supplying high quality product.

The Gazzolas have poured in huge chunks of themselves, and built this business from the ground up. There is pride in their eyes, and rightfully so. In a world where consumers are increasingly demanding, Gazzola Farms is an industry showcase.

10

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

TONY NIGRO

30 years with Fresh State

Tony Nigro began working at the market on the 21 June,1971. He clearly remembers the date because it was his 25th birthday. He was a single man and he drove a red GTS Monaro. That was an incredible 46 years ago!

1

6 years later, or to put it another way, 30 years ago, The Victorian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetables, later to become Fresh State Limited, noticed the great work Tony was doing in the areas of grower representation and freight collection services and snapped him up. Back then, Fresh State wanted someone to introduce freight collection and supply information on behalf of the wholesalers.

Over the last 30 years, Fresh State has seen a lot of changes, and Tony’s job has evolved. Some services have fallen away as they become no longer relevant

‘I WOULDN’T KNOW WHAT WORKING OUT OF THE MARKET WAS LIKE ... I LOVE THE MARKET AND I’VE ALWAYS ENJOYED WORKING AT FRESH STATE. and extra services have been added. Tony describes his job these days as a liaison between grower organisations, transport companies, and the wholesalers.

Tony says the market has been his whole life.

‘I wouldn’t know what working out of the market was like. The market environment is far different to

11

anything outside. I love the market and I’ve always enjoyed working at Fresh State.

Over the years there’s been a lot of changes.

Organisations have changed hands, people come and go. A few wholesalers come to mind, such as Kapiris, Dykes, Barkers, Anguey and Chin, but there are not many company names from back then that still exist now. The new market here at Epping operates a lot differently to the old Footscray Road market. There’s not a lot of passing trade. This market is still developing a personality. In time it will be there.’

At 71 years young Tony has downsized his work hours these days from six days a week to three but says he has no plans to retire at this stage. ‘I’m still enjoying the market, and I have other interests that keep me busy as well.’

Loyal, long serving staff are a company’s biggest asset. Tony Nigro isn’t mentioned on the Fresh state asset register, but perhaps he should be!

LOYAL, LONG SERVING STAFF ARE A COMPANY’S BIGGEST ASSET. Fresh State and market friends celebrating Tony’s 30 year milestone with a morning BBQ.

ADVERTISEMENT

SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY PALLET

TM

• New and used forklift sales • Short and long term forklift rentals • All forklift service and parts

1800 425 438 www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

Proud sponsors of the Fresh State Gala Ball

12

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

MINISTER VISITS MARKET On May 30 the market played host to the Victorian Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford. She was accompanied by a number of her own staff, the MMA Chairman, Peter Touhey, and MMA CEO, Mark Maskiell.

A

s the group moved through the market, Mark Maskiell explained the operations of the market. They stopped to chat with some wholesalers, including John Lattorre and Rocky Grillo from Latorre’s Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers, and Tony Siciliano from VFS Produce. John Latorre was keen to discuss market hours and the need for change to reduce the negative social impact on workers in the market.

When the entourage arrived at Produce Time, Fresh State chairman, Shane Schnitzler, took the opportunity to put forward to the minister the idea of a Retail Program which would

Jaala Pulford with John Latorre from Latorre’s Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers.

A RETAIL PROGRAM WHICH WOULD ENCOMPASS AN AGGRESSIVE MARKETING CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE SALES OF FRUIT AND VEGETABLES OUT OF THIS MARKET WITH THE ADDED BENEFIT OF PROMOTING HEALTHY DIETS FOR CONSUMERS. encompass an aggressive marketing campaign to promote sales of fruit and vegetables out of this market with the added benefit of promoting healthy diets for consumers. The Minister displayed considerable enthusiasm for the concept, encouraging Shane to approach her for further discussion on the matter.

13

24/7 Online

One Bill One Payment

14 Day Terms*

Improved Cash Flow

Free to Buyers

90% Merchant Uptake

Secure Trading

* To approved buyers only

03 9408 6627 officeadmin@melbmcs.com.au freshstate.com.au/mm-credit-service

The only way of doing business

14

01 OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

02 OF AFFAIRS

03

OF AFFAIRS

12

11

10

09

13

14 15

01 Ahmed Omar, Mark SantaLucia, & Domenic Pignataro (Fresh Max) 02 Gus (Tunstall Fresh) 03 Dale Fraser (The Fruit Box Group) & Frank Piccolo of (F&L Piccolo) 04 Colin Hudgson (La Manna Premier Group) with Mario Leonardis (The Bright Fruit Basket) 05 John Gatto (R. Anguey Pty Ltd) & Ange Virgona (Virgona Providore)

10 Steven Iacopino (Market City Fruits) with Van Dao (Market Place) 11 Rino Vari (Vari's Organics) 12 Mark Brancatisano (Prestige Produce)

17 Philippe – Chef (Food Fellas Cafe) 18 Van Ngo (Kim Phu)

13 Vincent Madafferi Junior & Sasha Gassic (VJM Nominees)

19 Tony & Phung Tran (Produce of Virginia)

06 Peter Hutchinson (Rosengal Produce)

14 Dale Chircop (Bio Dynamic Marketing)

20 Peter Tran & Anthony Bui (Produce of Virginia)

07 John Italiano (Fruitique) with Joel Guy (Flavorite) and Foy

15 Matt Goss (Westmores) with Anthony Jones (Jeff Jones Plants and Produce)

21 Vince Brancati (Fresh Crop)

08 Mario Latorre (Epsom Fruitworks) 09 Nick & Mario (The Apple Arcade)

16 Paul Virgona (Virgona Fresh Produce) with Joseph Taranto (Rich River Produce)

22 Tala Gautusa (Market & Growers Supplies)

05

15

06 04

07

08

AROUND THE MARKET

16

17

18

20 21 19

22

16

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

OF AFFAIRS

e grey n up th Brighte d with this ea days ah t of things lis top ten nus the i to do – m e! tim screen

1W0 O T S AY HE

OF AFFAIRS

T H C DIT EN E R C S

1

IT’S AUGUST IN MELBOURNE. THAT MEANS GREY SKIES, COLD WEATHER AND DREARY DAYS. ARE THE KIDS HUNCHED OVER THE COMPUTER SCREENS OR GLUED TO THE TV? AND WHAT ABOUT THE ADULTS? HOW IS YOUR SCREEN/LIFE BALANCE THIS WINTER? 2

3

Stroll the parks Pull out the family stash of coats, gloves and beanies and take the whole tribe for a walk. Breathe the fresh air. Look around. What’s changed? What’s stayed reassuringly the same? Walking together is a great way to connect with your surroundings and each other.

And bring the dog too!

Have a cook up Pull out the pots, pans and baking dishes and get busy in the kitchen.

Cook up an old favorite or try out a new recipe. The house will smell amazing and the family will love you for it.

Bury yourself in a good book Curl up in a comfy corner and get started on that novel you’ve been itching to read. No book on hand? Take a trip to the library.

Be it a perennial classic or the latest bestseller – there’s something for everyone among the stacks.

17

4

5

6

Take the tourist trail

Get creative

Volunteer

How often do you take the time to visit local attractions? Take the kids for a ride on the Melbourne Star, visit Luna Park, or the Aquarium.

Or grab a bit of culture. Melbourne is jam packed full of galleries, museums, and theatres. There’s something for everyone in this old town.

There’s a hundred ways to indulge your creative side. Draw, paint, knit, or build something – whiling away an afternoon is easy when you become lost in the creativity zone.

‘We make a living by what we get but we make a life by what we give.’

Can you see yourself helping out to serve food, raise funds or even just give someone the pleasure of some human company? Wouldn’t you like to brighten somebody’s day – just because you can?

7

8

9

Get the gang together

Get down and dirty

Fix something

We all get so busy with our lives that we forget to take time out to spend with precious friends. When was the last time you had a good old get together – for no reason at all?

An impromptu gathering doesn’t have to be hard work if everyone brings something to contribute.

Go on, you know you want to!

In the garden that is! Clean up those weeds or take a trip to the nursery for inspiration. Giving the garden a spruce up will leave you feeling satisfied and productive.

Wet outside? No worries, get out the pens and draw up a landscape plan for sunnier days!

Every household has something broken that’s been set aside for repair. Take the time to work on fixing a couple of them. Imagine the satisfaction of knowing those bits and bobs of broken stuff are all back in working order.

10

Break out the board games There is nothing the kids love more than an afternoon of playing board games with their parents. From Monopoly to Chess to Snakes and Ladders, there is a board game for everyone. Don’t expect a quiet time though. Those pesky kids like to win.

They won’t be happy until Dad’s a beaten man!

18

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

MARKET WINS MARKET FAILS On any given day, there’s a heap of stuff going on at the market.

Small things can have a big impact and big things can fly right under the radar when we are all busy working. Since the last magazine, the Fresh State communications team of one has noticed a few things happening, some good and worth a big tick, others not so good.

New automatic roller doors around the market have cut down the wind and made life more comfortable for everyone.

Gotta tick that!

Nice to see groups of school students touring the market. Who knows?

There might be a few budding fruit and veg entrepreneurs among this lot.

issue 38 aug 2017

19

Produce Time have a shiny new floor. Much improved from the previous cracks in the concrete.

Someone had a fight with a bollard in the car park.

Sadly, the bollard won the argument!

You’d think a sprinkler on the roof would be out of harm’s way but not this one! One store had floods to contend with when a pallet wielding forklift snapped off a fire sprinkler.

20

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

Fo e vu nicu lga lu re: m

If you’re thinking of Fennel in terms of Italian cooking, you might be surprised to learn that fennel was among the collection of seeds and plants brought to Australia from England on the first fleet, in 1788.

issue 38 aug 2017

21

C

ulturally, Fennel as a vegetable has strong ties to Europe. France and Italy in particular have used fennel in cooking for centuries. Greek mythology has Fennel as a food of Dionysus, the Greek God of food and wine, and a fennel stalk carrying the coal that passed knowledge from the gods to man.

The plant grows as a white or pale green bulb with tightly packed stalks and feathery leaves. The whole plant is edible, with the bulb and stalks used as a vegetable, leaves as a herb, and seeds from the flowers as a spice. Fennel is most closely related to parsley, carrots, dill and coriander. It is a vegetable with a unique, aniseed flavor and a crunchy texture similar to celery.

The Fennel plant can grow up to 2 metres tall. It is harvested around 14 to 20 weeks after seeds are planted by cutting the bulb from the roots, a couple of centimetres above the ground. If allowed to grow the plant bolts, which is when the seeds are produced. Due to its habit of setting seed along roadsides and on vacant land, in some Australian states wild fennel is considered a noxious weed.

The health benefits of fennel are many.

It is low in calories, high in vitamin C and dietary fibre, folate, vitamin A, niacin, potassium, manganese, calcium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium.

Fennel is claimed to be useful in assisting with a host of ailments, including treating respiratory disorders, reducing high blood pressure, increasing brain function, strengthening the immune system, even reducing the symptoms of flatulence and eliminating bad breath. There is one particular ingredient in fennel, called anethole, which stands out for its health benefits. Anethole has been shown to reduce inflammation and prevent cancer cells forming.

MAIN STOCKISTS OF FENNEL IN THE MARKET ARE VELI VELISHA, AVELING FRESH, LA MANNA PREMIER GROUP, PERFECTION FRESH, BRP & HC PRODUCE.

Fennel is best when the bulbs appear clean, firm and solid, with no signs of splitting, bruising or spotting.

If there are flowering buds appearing the vegetable is past its best. The Australian season for fennel is Autumn through to early Spring. Fennel is often served raw in salads, and is delicious when roasted. You’ll find a recipe and a link to more delicious recipes using fennel on page 22.

22

Featured Recipe

THIS ITALIAN SALAD SERVES FOUR. IT FEATURES GRILLED ASPARAGUS, EGGPLANT AND FENNEL, WITH CREAMY BUFFALO MOZZARELLA AND FRESH PARSLEY. INGREDIENTS: > 2 eggplants > 8 green asparagus > 1 fennel bulb > 1/2 lemon > 250g Buffalo mozzarella > Salt and pepper

DRESSING INGREDIENTS: > 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil > 8 tablespoons white wine vinegar > 1 garlic clove, minced > Finely diced cayenne pepper > 4 sprigs of parsley with the stems removed, finely chopped > Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

GRILLED EGGPLANT, ASPARAGUS & FENNEL SALAD Peel eggplants and cut into even, thin slices.

Cut asparagus in half lengthwise. Grill vegetables on both sides until grill marks appear. Allow to cool.

In a small bowl, vigorously mix olive oil, vinegar, garlic, red pepper, and parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this mixture over the vegetables.

Cut fennel bulb in half, remove the heart, then grate or cut into very thin slices and drizzle with lemon juice.

Divide fennel on plates. Arrange the grilled vegetables on top. Grate mozzarella and sprinkle evenly over vegetables.

Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.

Tips from recipe author – Restaurant Rossio – Delft, The Netherlands.

The eggplant achieves nice complexity and depth of flavour if you remove the stem and calyx, cut in half, and roast at high heat for 15-25 minutes before slicing and grilling.

The white root end of the asparagus should be removed before cooking. Simply snap the end off and it will break at the point where the beautiful fresh green asparagus begins.

Source: lovemysalad.com Love My Salad is initiated and coordinated by some employees of Rijk Zwaan, a family owned vegetable breeding company, together with passionate salad lovers.

23

Thank you to all members for your ongoing support with Rental Bonds &/or Liability policies renewed for 2017/18.

Melbourne Insurance Brokers (MIB) have been assisting wholesalers & growers for seventeen years and going strong for almost forty years. We can assist you with a wide range of insurance covers including the financial risks of owning a business.

Management Liability is an essential cover for all business owners as it protects you against: • Claims from disgruntled employees alleging unfair dismissal or bullying which are covered under the Employment Practices component • Theft of cash or stock by employees; we have seen several clients suffer at the hands of trusted employees resulting in claims well over $100k • I f an employee is injured & a Workcover claim is made, Work Health & Safety often investigate & often impose a fine on employers; this would be covered under this policy • Tax Investigation also known as Tax Audit covers the costs of your accountant’s time in preparing responses to the ATO & other government bodies • D irectors & Officers cover protecting you against breaches of Trade Practices Act & other scenarios CYBER ATTACKS

Of course we can also assist you in protecting your physical assets as well via:

Yes, there is insurance for virtually everything including against tech savvy crims who want to hold you to ransom like we saw with the recent Wannacry virus attack.

Business Property* Providing cover in the event of damage to Fixtures/Fittings (including cool rooms) and Stock caused by events such as fire, smoke, water or storm damage.

FORKLIFTS AND BUGGIES Whilst Forklifts are virtually indestructible, they are subject to theft, damage to other vehicles and damage to property. Of course we have seen both a forklift and a buggy on fire in recent times so, Forrest Gump was right, it does happen! A Commercial Motor Policy will provide the cover needed.

Revenue Protection for your Business* Protect your cashflow from any downturn as a result of an insurance event, more commonly known as Business Interruption. *As stipulated in your lease.

The covers noted above are provided under a Business Insurance package which can be extended to include cover for: • Loss of Money • Theft • Glass breakage • Tax audit

Contact Mark & his team at MIB today (or tomorrow if you’re busy today …)

9686 0688

melbourneinsurancebrokers.com.au

24

OF AFFAIRS

issue 38 aug 2017

LI KET GH T

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

R A M

S P OT

Eight years ago, a new market business, Organic Growers Group, was formed.

Nothing unusual in that.

What was unusual was the fact that this business was founded by two women.

Claire Crocker wanted to start a business to support Australian certified organic farmers. She began talking to organic apple grower Wendy Edwards, and with the support of Wendy’s father, Don Edwards, a partnership was formed.

From left: Gurpreet Gill, Nikita Orvis, Jen Osborne, Dee Turvey and Katie Tierney

T

he pair bought a store at the West Melbourne Market site.

At the time, total staff consisted of Manager, Jen Osborne, and a forklift driver, Chip Ranieri, who is still with them today. In a relatively short space of time, the Organic Growers Group has become well known as a Merchant for certified organic growers and their stock is procured from all over the country.

Anyone who works in the market environment is well aware of its unique atmosphere. The most obvious factor that separates the Market from many other workplaces would have to be the fact that most of the work takes place outside of daylight hours. Add to that the wonderful colours and smells of the produce, and a sea of carts, forklifts and orange vests as far as the eye can see. There is a surprising sense of camaraderie, despite the fact that each individual business is in direct competition with all the others.

Another thing that stands out is the majority of males on the trading floor.

If you consider the market historically, this is not all that surprising. Back in the

days before forklifts and pallet jacks, the physical strength required for the job of lugging around bags of produce was something beyond most women.

Many market businesses have evolved from family beginnings, where the sons came of age and joined their fathers and grandfathers.

Organic Growers Group is the only allfemale owned and operated wholesale business in the country, and, although we can’t be totally sure, it is believed to be only one of three in the world.

In addition to Director/business manager, Claire Crocker, and Director, Wendy Edwards, all key positions are held by women. The staff include manager, Jen Osborne, sales and administration officer, Katie Tierney, salesperson, Nikita Orvis, Operations coordinator, Gurpreet Gill, cashier Dee Turvey, Forklift driver Chip, and a packing team of 14-16 people employed on a casual basis.

Manager, Jen Osborne, says the industry is a challenging one regardless of gender. ‘It has its ups and downs, like any industry. But it’s challenging

25

ORGANIC GROWERS GROUP IS THE ONLY ALL-FEMALE OWNED AND OPERATED WHOLESALE BUSINESS IN THE COUNTRY. in a good way,’ she says. ‘It’s exciting to be women in such a male dominated environment. We celebrated our eighth anniversary on June 29th this year.

We’ve been here long enough now to be accepted, and we’d like to think we’ve forged a space for other women to come into the industry without feeling daunted.’

Jen doesn’t think being female has held them back at all.

‘We get professional respect from others in the industry. As a woman, it can be challenging to feel a part of the camaraderie at times, but we don’t feel left out at all.’

WE’D LIKE TO THINK WE’VE FORGED A SPACE FOR OTHER WOMEN TO COME INTO THE INDUSTRY WITHOUT FEELING DAUNTED.’

Katie Tierney is a part of the growing leaders program. As part of the program, Fresh State CEO, Jason Cooper, has taken on the role of an industry mentor to her. Katie believes Jason can assist her to improve her business relationship building skills.

26

OF AFFAIRS

2017

issue 38 aug 2017

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

OUR INDUSTRY | OUR NIGHT

6 2 T S U

Y A RD

G U A

H T

Platinum Sponsors Gold Sponsors

W O D PENINSULA

T N

U O C E

U T SA

N

IS

N O

CENTRAL PIER DOCKLANDS ALL ENQUIRIES TO: comms@freshstate.com.au or 03 9408 6627

27

Toyota Material Handling is the forklift leader in Australia’s fresh fruit and vegetable markets.

1. Proven performers in the fruit and vegetable markets environment 2. New and used forklift purchase, rental or lease options 3. Superior service and parts back-up and support 4. Massive range with Toyota Material Handling’s world leading products 5. Flexible finance deals through Toyota Finance 6. Stability of dealing with the world’s largest forklift company

To make the smart choice and discover how Toyota Material Handling can make a difference to your operations, contact your local branch.

Hand Pallet Trucks

Power Pallet Trucks

Order Pickers

Walkie Stackers

Toyota Material Handling offer • New Sales • Pre-owned • Rentals • Finance • Service and Parts

Reach Forklifts

Battery Counterbalance

Engine Counterbalance

1800 425 438 www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

Elevated Work Platforms

Skid Steer Loaders

BAYFORD EPPING SPECIAL

VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK CORE 4x4.

App-Connect° Rear View Camera¥

Rear Differential Lock Rigid Ladder Frame Chassis

From

Plus 5 Years Warranty* if financed with VWFS Find out more at bayfordvolkswagen.com.au Proud Business Partners of Fresh State Your Volkswagen Partner

Bayford Volkswagen Epping 350 Cooper Street, Epping LMCT8954 Tel. 9409 9000 bayford350@bayford.com.au °App-Connect is compatible for selected apps with the latest smartphone versions of iOS and Android. ¥Safety technologies are not a substitute for the driver’s responsibility ~Manufacturer’s campaign driveaway price for MY17 new vehicles. ~#Vehicles must be sold and delivered by 30 June 2017. While stocks last. Options and metallic paint may be available for an additional of the vehicle. *5 year warranty available at no additional cost at participating Volkswagen dealers to approved applicants of Volkswagen Financial Services (VFS)** on new and demonstrator MY17 Amarok models sold by 30 September 2017 and delivered by 31 October 2017. While stock lasts. Demonstrator stock vehicle warranty only applies for the smartphone versions of iOS and Android. ¥ Safety technologies are not a substitute for the driver's responsibility of the vehicle. balance of 5 year term. Your rights under this warranty sit alongside the consumer guarantees under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 which cannot be excluded. VFS** reserves the right to change, supersede or extend the offer. Standard fees and charges apply. Full conditions are available on application. LMCT8128 & LMCT8954