Agrifood voucher scheme supports Augusta-Margaret River export producers

Export-focused Capes operators have scored support from a new State Government voucher scheme. The latest round of WA’s Agrifood and Beverage Voucher Program will see Margaret River Brewhouse, Bahen and Co Chocolates, the Local Drinks Company and Augusta’s Rare Foods Australia divvy up funding to help chase opportunities and expand their business offerings. Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie spruiked the news as a win for producers in the Margaret River region. “Agrifood and beverage businesses are the lifeblood of our tourism industry, generating new jobs and opportunities for the people and communities of the region,” she said. “The Agrifood and Beverage Voucher Program enables businesses to embrace innovation, grow their operations, and stay ahead of the game. “And I’m really proud that 13 businesses across our electorate received funding through the voucher program, which is testament to the vision and drive of our business community here in Warren-Blackwood.” More than $430,000 was dished out to 57 businesses Statewide. Margaret River Brewhouse co-owner Iliya Hastings said the funding fillip came as the company’s new dedicated Station Road facility was under construction. Funding of $10,000 would go towards a new ecommerce-focused website to allow online sales. “In a time when business investment and expansion is slowing a little, a program like this enables businesses that are planning for growth to be supported,” Mr Hastings said. “The contribution the program makes is really useful to us as we transition Margaret River Brewhouse to Margaret River Beer Co and look for new markets, including online. “Our new website will enable this for our business.” Ms Kelsbie said a recent independent survey of recipients found vouchers positively contributed to full-time job creation, increased sales turnover, and improved international competitiveness.