Wednesday 12 March 2025

NEW GREENHOUSE TO BOLSTER FOOD AND AGRICULTURE

The Allan Labor Government is putting Victoria at the forefront of innovation in food security and agricultural development, with works on an impressive new glasshouse facility in Bacchus Marsh continuing, backed by the Victorian Government.

Member for Eureka Michaela Settle today represented Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes for a site tour and inspection of the new facility which is being constructed by Rijk Zwaan Australia. The build is made possible thanks to a $400,000 Government investment via Regional Development Victoria to bolster jobs in the region.

An international company dedicated to developing seeds that can withstand harsh conditions and offer greater yields to growers, Rijk Zwaan is behind the fruits and vegetables that millions of people consume every day.

The company also uses their extensive research and development in vegetable breeding and access to global data to provide technical expertise and solutions-based approaches to growers.

The glasshouse will be home to research and development work that will cultivate new seed strains. Located on a flood plain, it features specialised panels to allow floodwater to pass through without affecting infrastructure or produce.

In addition to the glasshouse, the project will also include the construction of offices, laboratories and warehouses. Once completed later this year, the project is anticipated to create up to 40 new full-time jobs for local workers.

The project recently reached a key milestone when the glasshouse roof was installed, bringing Victoria a step closer to having a cutting-edge location that will further bolster our food chain against changeable climate conditions.

Government’s investment into Rijk Zwaan’s Bacchus March facilities is part of our record $45 billion support for projects that are making rural and regional Victoria an even better place to live, work, stay and play.

For more information, go to rdv.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eureka Michaela Settle

“Food cultivation and agricultural development are key pillars of the regional economy, and it’s wonderful to see Rijk Zwaan well on the way to establishing state-of-the-art facilities that will bolster these sectors.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes

“These facilities mean more jobs and economic growth for Bacchus Marsh, and I look forward to seeing them operational.”