EMERGING EXPORTERS on the Western Downs With growing demand for trusted, clean and green food in Asia, and significant investment in infrastructure right on our doorstep, the opportunity now exists for Western Downs producers and processors to grow into export markets. In its fourth year, the Emerging Exporters Program is building on the successes of the past three years and is being run to assist those who are interested in exporting their products. This program, delivered by Food Leaders Australia (FLA), is an initiative of Shell’s QGC business and is a three-year program to see a cohort of exporters make inroads into new markets.
Alister Hughes Rangeland Quality Meats
Emerging Exporters is a part of Shell’s QGC business’ commitment to regional economic development and working with the community to diversify local economies. TSBE’s FLA Export Manager Food and Agribusiness, Justin Heaven said previous cohort participants have been successful in breaking into the international export market. “We’ve seen participants like Four Daughters Premium Black Angus successfully export to China and Riverbend Pork Group export to markets in Asia,” said Mr Heaven. Dan and Karen Penfold owners of Four Daughters Premium Black Angus joined the Emerging Exporters Program in 2019. With support provided through the Emerging Exporters Program, Four Daughters has exported their premium Black Angus beef to China and continue to explore new markets and opportunities. Another participant from the 2020 cohort Business Manager of Rangeland Quality Meats, Alister Hughes said the Emerging Exporters Program was a great experience. “Being in a room full of like-minded businesses is a great opportunity to grow your knowledge base, whilst being able to have all your questions answered by people and businesses who have walked the road before you.” 26 LIVE WESTERN DOWNS 2021
“It provided me and my business a better understanding of the process, and do’s and don’ts and what to look out for when entering the export markets,” Mr Hughes said. Morrissey and Co also joined the Emerging Exporters Program in 2020 and is a fifth generation family-
owned and operated business based in the regional town of Jandowae in South West Queensland. Morrissey and Co has utilised the network and the opportunities within the Emerging Exporters Program to review and develop their business for the next generation.
