Marquis Macadamias, the world’s largest macadamia processing company, has secured funding support through the Queensland Government’s 175 million Jobs and Regional Growth Fund to expand its Bundaberg facility and create 40 new jobs.
The $13.3 million expansion will see the company build a new cold storage warehouse, specialised bulk drying and packing facilities, as well as a solar farm to generate power for its operations.
Treasurer and Minister for Investment Cameron Dick said the project will help Marquis Macadamias increase their processing capacity by 25%.
“Global appetite for our macadamias is huge, and Marquis’ $13.3 million expansion will ensure local growers can take a bigger bite of export opportunities,” Mr Dick said.
“This project will take Marquis’ annual processing capacity from 12,000 to 15,000 tonnes, allowing them to get more Queensland macadamias onto shelves and into households across the world.
Marquis, which sources crop from 180 shareholding growers and 170 non-shareholder growers throughout Australia, is one of only two processors globally able to deliver a certified Log5 pasteurised product, allowing for reduced quarantine time to create a significant market advantage.
The company’s CEO Larry McHugh said the expansion will further solidify Bundaberg as Australia’s largest macadamia producing region.
“With our facility currently operating at close to maximum capacity, this project will mean we’re ready to support future demands and grow and create long-term, stable jobs in Bundaberg,” Mr McHugh concluded.
Image credit: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/91868
