Wednesday, 2 August 2023

Mornington Peninsula economy

Tom McINTOSH (Eastern Victoria) (09:47): Mornington Peninsula is well known for its top-tier food, wine and tourism experiences, but I want to take this chance to remind people of the strong and diverse economy in the region that might not be so well known. From the huge agricultural production in the green wedge to steel and energy and to the soon-to-be Victorian renewable energy terminal in Hastings, the peninsula has so many businesses of all sizes that contribute essential products and services to the Victorian community, create lots of jobs and drive the local economy. As we address climate change not only will it be renewable energy and the associated jobs boom that lower emissions while supporting the economy, small businesses will be a big part of this story too, and family business Peninsula Growers is a perfect example.

Founded in 1999, the family-run wholesale nursery in Boneo were successful applicants in the state government’s low-carbon manufacturing grant scheme. Gary and Jane along with son Liam and the team will manufacture a reusable cell tray as an alternative to single-use polystyrene P6 plastic trays currently used in the commercial horticulture industry that quickly go on to end up in landfill. Rather than being made in and shipped from Europe, the new locally made trays will save tonnes of CO₂ in production and transportation, whilst supporting local manufacturing and design jobs on top of the 25 existing nursery jobs. Let this be a reminder that there is more to the Mornington Peninsula, small business and emission reduction than meets the eye. There is so much happening on the peninsula. You can see more this week in Queen’s Hall, where the shire are putting on a great showcase for the region, and I look forward to seeing you all there.