South Burnett In HK Spotlight

Josh Gadischke, from Proteco Oils, speaks to an interested visitor at his stall at HOFEX (Photo: DAF)

May 9, 2019

Two local businesses have been flying the flag for the South Burnett during a Queensland trade mission to Hong Kong.

Agriculture Minister Mark Furner, who is leading the delegation, said exhibitors were grabbing opportunities with both hands at HOFEX, a major international trade event.

“What people are asking for in Hong Kong is what we have on offer – clean, green safe produce,” Mr Furner said.

“Considering Hong Kong imports 95 per cent of its food, Queensland is in prime position only eight or nine hours flight away.

“We are in the box seat making sure we are the winners here providing that food into Hong Kong.”

Jason Kinsella, from Moffatdale Ridge Wines, and Josh Gadischke, from Proteco Oils in Kingaroy, are part of the delegation.

Jason said the opportunities the trade mission offered to his business and the South Burnett were really exciting.

He believed his Moffatdale Ridge verdelho was a perfect wine for the Hong Kong market.

Josh said his company was looking to distribute its range of tree nut oils more widely in Asia.

“We do have some outlets at the moment, some small distribution, but it’s such a big market and we see a lot of future opportunity,” he said.

Mr Furner said he expected the trade mission would help the 18 participating businesses to expand exports, and that meant more jobs in a stronger Queensland economy.

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Proteco will be opening its doors to invited guests in Kingaroy this month to allow people to learn more about its innovative business.

Proteco Oils will demonstrate its leading-edge equipment and processes as part of the State Government’s “Inside Advanced Manufacturing” series.

“Inside Advanced Manufacturing” offers behind-the-scenes, expert-guided facility tours, showcasing new techniques and technologies.

State Development Minister Cameron Dick commended Proteco for sharing their knowledge and expertise with others.

“Proteco Oils’ refinery is uniquely equipped with highly specialised production units for complete oil processing, designed specifically for almond, macadamia, peanut and sunflower oils,” Mr Dick said.

“This is the only edible-oil refinery in Queensland and it employs high-level automation control for maximum quality, designed to minimise oxidation and to remove taste and odour in the final product by natural means.

“Inside Advanced Manufacturing celebrates the best of the sector right across Queensland, and it’s fantastic that a great Kingaroy business is involved in this initiative.”