The new $10 million Mallacoota Abalone Co-op will future proof the industry for decades to come, according to Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
Mr Chester attended today’s official opening and paid credit to the board, staff and community representatives for working together to replace the factory destroyed in the Black Summer bushfires.
“The abalone industry is an essential part of Mallacoota and getting this facility rebuilt and operational was vital after the Black Summer bushfires,” Mr Chester said.
“I met with co-op representatives numerous times and worked together to secure $3 million through the Regional Economic Stimulus and Resilience grants from the Federal-State Governments.
“The complete rebuild provides better unloading facilities for freshly caught abalone, that is either processed into cans or kept alive in tanks for export to Asian markets.”
Mr Chester said the new facility would also provide future opportunities for a visitor experience to see the industry in action.
“The co-op is one of the largest employers in the Mallacoota region and the new facility not only secures these jobs but provides the potential to expand,” Mr Chester said.
“Each year many visitors flock to Mallacoota and providing another attraction in the future will boost the economy and support local jobs.
“The official opening today is a testament to the hard work and resilience of the local abalone industry to ensure the industry continues to thrive locally.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in getting the redevelopment project completed despite the weather interruptions and supply chain challenges.”
