The New South Wales Government is showcasing 12 of its most innovative food and drink manufacturers at this year’s Fine Food Australia 2024 tradeshow, set to be held from 2 to 5 September at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
In a strategic push to bolster local industry, each selected NSW business has been awarded $6,000 to support their presence at the event, the government said in a news release.
The tradeshow serves as a platform for global buyers seeking new products, drawing over 26,000 visitors from more than 50 countries annually.
The focus on manufacturing innovation is evident in the diverse range of products set to be displayed, from artisanal spirits to handcrafted chocolates.
“The NSW Government is committed to building the capacity and export capabilities of our food and beverage producers, which is why we support local businesses to exhibit at Fine Food Australia – the southern hemisphere’s leading trade event for the food and beverage industry,” said Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong.
He added, “Our food and beverages are renowned around the world for being the highest quality. I heard this firsthand during my trade mission to Southeast Asia in July. There are enormous opportunities for manufacturers to take the next step and pursue growth throughout Australia and internationally, and the Fine Food Australia trade show is a great opportunity to do exactly that.”
Among the featured businesses is Morella Grove, an olive oil producer from the Riverina region.
The company, which began as a small family farm, will showcase its range of artisanal products including extra virgin olive oil, vinegars, jams, and gourmet sauces.
Co-owner Natasha Dal Bon highlighted the significance of the tradeshow for their international ambitions.
“We’ve expanded a lot since the early days – our product range now includes caramelised vinegars, jams and sauces and are available at gourmet food shops across the country. However, there’s significant growth opportunities in international markets that we’d like to pursue, so we’re looking forward to connecting with buyers, distributors and investors using Fine Food Australia as a launch pad to grow our brand globally.”
In addition to Morella Grove, other exhibitors include:
- The Apple Thief: Known for its ciders, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, from Batlow in the NSW Snowy Mountains.
- Australian Food and Pharmaceutical Industries: Makers of innovative foods, including Mast Chew, a plant-based, organic, and sugar-free chewing gum.
- Binjang Tea: A First Nations business producing bush teas with native plants from Central West NSW.
- Byron Bay Spirits: Distillers of small-batch spirits with a local and Italian twist.
- Cocoa Nib Artisan Chocolates: Handcrafts chocolates, tarts, and desserts from Newcastle.
- Duro Pasta: Uses 100% Australian durum wheat and sustainable farming practices on the South Coast.
- LORE Australia: A First Nations company offering probiotic sodas and prebiotic chocolates from Bellingen.
- Nocktail: Creates all-natural non-alcoholic cocktail-inspired drinks for conscious consumers from Northern Beaches.
- Spicecraft: Specialises in gourmet Indian cooking kits from Ryde.
- Unexpected Guest: Produces flavoured gins from Marrickville.
- Ziggy’s Wildfoods: Utilises native ingredients to create fermented hot sauces and condiments from Bellingen.
For more information on the Flavours of NSW zone at Fine Food Australia 2024, visit investment.nsw.gov.au/focus-sectors/advanced-manufacturing/food-and-beverage-manufacturing/fine-food-australia-2024/.
