I don’t think I know anyone who does not enjoy their food and drink. It’s even in our national anthem. And here in Mallee we have plenty of home grown and manufactured produce it to boast about.

Since stepping into my role as the Federal Member for Mallee, I’ve had a vision to champion our region’s produce and its producers. COVID stymied my plans for a couple of years, but here we are and I am very proud to announce ‘Magnificent Mallee’, a premier event in November in the Australian Parliament House to highlight all that is wonderful about Mallee.

Last month, data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed that Mildura is the most profitable farming region, confirming what we already know – we are the agricultural powerhouse of the nation.

Magnificent Mallee will provide the opportunity to boost our region’s profile and demonstrate how magnificent Mallee really is. Parliamentarians, their staff and delegates will be able to Meander through Mallee, tasting the varied and wonderful products on display.

Already some of our reputable local producers have come on board, who are local champions in their own right, including Fossey’s Distillery as well as Murray River Salt.

In the planning of this showcase, I have been inspired by the passion and motivation of our local producers to help our region grow and attract more business and tourism to the area.

Across Australia, particularly for our city cousins, people often don’t realise the vast amount of produce that Mallee makes for the nation and indeed the world. From the dried fruits, nuts, grapes, fresh fruit, grain and wine and gin in the north, to the dairy and meat products in the east and further south where we boast grain, meat and of course wine production. We have a lot to offer.

The opportunity is open for producers in the region to partner this spring. Interested businesses can contact my office at anne.webster.mp@aph.gov.au. I would love you join with me to showcase our Magnificent Mallee!

Magnificent Mallee will be held on November 9th, 2022 from 5.30pm-8pm in Australian Parliament House.