THE Australian Manufacturing and Farming Program (AMFP) 2015 Position Perfect forum will take place at Wodonga TAFE on Friday.
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The forum, a partnership between Senator John Madigan, member for Indi Cathy McGowan, Wodonga Council and Wodonga TAFE, will showcase local agricultural and manufacturing opportunities, and training and career paths.
Indi is perfectly placed to expand on existing manufacturing and food production industries, according to Ms McGowan.
“This is a rare opportunity for farmers, horticulturalists, manufacturers and food processors to be together at the one time to discuss their role in the future,” Ms McGowan said.
Ms McGowan said this region is a major hub for future manufacturing and industry and we have the ability to expand and grow into the future.
“We have manufacturers who produce goods at a world-class level and trade internationally,” she said.
“Manufacturing and food production are the second and third main employers along the Riverina and Murray regions, accounting for 60 per cent of business activity.
“The agricultural sector in the Hume-Murray regions contributes $2.3 billion to the combined gross agricultural production value of NSW and Victoria and is growing.
“This will lead to more demand for skilled professionals, trades and technicians into the future.”
Ms McGowan is encouraging students, teachers and families to attend and learn about the industry and explore employment opportunities.
Independent Senator for South Australia Nick Xenophon and member for Kennedy Bob Katter are also attending.
The concept was praised by the Industrial Hemp Association of Victoria president Lyn Stephenson of Kyneton, Victoria, who will represent the association on the day.
“Industrial hemp has enormous potential as a food, rotation crop and things like bodycare products,” she said.
“It’s nutritional value is the same as deep sea fish in terms of Omega 3 and 6 and protein.
“It is used as a food all around the world, except in Australia and New Zealand, where it has not been approved for that purpose.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to profile industrial hemp in terms of both agriculture and manufacturing.
“It is great to see independent members of parliament and from the small parties put their heads together; they obviously are keen to represent their electorates.”
Grainline principal John Stead will travel from Wagga to take part in the forum.
His company manufactures grain augers, accessories for grain augers, rotadoor remote operation bin and tailgate doors.
“This is an opportunity to help support Australian manufacturing and agriculture,” he said.