By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A TONGUE-in-cheek remark at an agribusiness conference two years ago has landed Herne Hill’s Chris Walsh a spot on a Victorian super trade mission leaving for south-east Asia on Saturday.
The south- eastern Australia territory manager for Seednet said he had mentioned the benefits of including young agribusiness professionals on trade missions.
“Victorian Agriculture Minister Peter Walsh, who opened the conference, responded that it would be good and … I was invited to apply.”
Mr Walsh said he was keen to research market conditions for agricultural exports to south-east Asia.
“We need to hone in on what potential there is in south-east Asia and what ways there are to increase exports.”
The Independent has previously reported on the region’s “massive” opportunity to export produce through Avalon Airport.
Produce king Frank Costa said the potential for Avalon exports was comparable to business throughput at Melbourne Airport.
Mr Walsh said Australia was increasingly struggling to export because of high costs and distance from markets.
He planned to “ask a lot of questions” during the six-day trade mission for a report to government and industry on his return.
