By John Van Klaveren
GEELONG could become the chicken capital of Victoria if animal husbandry expansion plans come to fruition.
Stockfeed company Ridley has announced plans to build a feed mill at Lara to handle an expected growth spurt in poultry and pork production.
The company has bought 5.3 hectares from grain handler Riordan Group to produce at least 200,000 tonnes of stockfeed a year, employing up to 20 full-time staff.
The development of new intensive agricultural zones nearby in Golden Plains Shire will make a large feed mill “critical” to the success of the industries as well as local job creation.
Ridley chief financial officer Alan Boyd said the parcel of land was in a strategic position close to major transport routes and the company’s Laverton rendering facility.
Mr Boyd said the feed mill would cater to existing Ridley customers, some of whom were planning to increase chook production.
The proposal was contingent on minimum commitments from customers but Ridley considered it a long-term strategic investment, he said.
“It’s a highly desirable site and worth taking the risk of getting all the approvals required. There’s strong government support for the area.
“It’s also near Geelong’s port, so there might be opportunities for shipments of grain unsuitable for human consumption.
“There aren’t many areas set aside for livestock production and we’ve done quite a bit of market research on the area.
“We’re talking to our customers to see what the long-term expansion potential is. We need to make sure we have the capacity for the future.”
Golden Plans Shire Mayor Jenny Blake said the shire’s proposed intensive agricultural precinct had already attracted a number of proposals.
“There’s definitely a great opportunity to increase the productivity of the whole area between Midland Hwy and Meredith-Shelford Rd.”
Federal Member for Corangamite Sarah Henderson said Ridley’s plans were testament to the strong future for intensive agriculture in the region.
“For jobs, farmers and exports, the Golden Plains intensive agriculture precinct presents our region with enormous opportunity,” Ms Henderson said.
“The Golden Plains region already produces 21 per cent of Victoria’s eggs, 11 per cent of poultry and five per cent of pigs. Per capita consumption of chicken meat across Australia increased by 25 per cent between 2004 and 2011, presenting a real opportunity for our region.”
