Southern Forests Food Council provided $725,000 in government funding to grow gourmet appeal in region

The Southern Forests Food Council has been given more than $700,000 in funding by the State Government in a bid to create opportunities for farmers and food and beverage businesses. The State Government provided $725,000 to the council — $425,000 previously allocated and $300,000 in new funding — which will help support economic growth and job creation in the region. The council’s aim is for the Southern Forests region, spanning Manjimup, Pemberton, Northcliffe, Walpole, Bridgetown, Greenbushes and Nannup, to be promoted as an internationally recognised gourmet food and culinary tourism destination. The region is renowned for its premium quality fruit and vegetables, truffles, nuts, wine and beef, sheep and dairy farms. The council intends to use the funding to focus on activities and implement strategies that secure its long-term sustainability and enhance the brand, having fostered strong partnerships between wholesalers, retailers, chefs and the State Government to work towards a goal of optimising the potential of the region. Regional Development Minister Don Punch said the council was a significant player in the region’s economic growth and having local operators highlighted through its partnerships. “The Southern Forests Food Council plays an important role in helping local producers, culinary and tourism operators to thrive and increase their contribution to the region’s economy, stimulating growth and jobs,” he said. “This funding will assist the council to build on the gains it has made to pursue further trade and investment in the diverse range of businesses and industries in this beautiful part of our State.” The Genuinely Southern Forests brand identifies the region’s produce and producers, which partners with the WA Government’s Buy West Eat Best food labelling program. Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said the Southern Forests region was one of Australia’s premier food bowls and the funding would help with the region’s ongoing promotions. “This funding will help the Southern Forests Food Council to continue to promote the region’s premium produce on the domestic and international stage as well as drive trade opportunities,” she said. “The Genuinely Southern Forests brand also partners with the State Government’s successful Buy West Eat Best food labelling program, allowing customers to easily recognise fresh produce from our regions on supermarket shelves.” Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie said the Southern Forest Food Council’s role in promoting the region was important and the funding would help build the long-term sustainability of the council. “The council have been instrumental in promoting the Southern Forests as an internationally recognised agricultural region and culinary tourism destination,” she said. “I look forward to seeing the brand continue to flourish and thrive, assisting to create more sustainable jobs in our beautiful region.”