Farmland protection crucial for $300 million hot chip facility

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has expressed concerns regarding a proposed $300 million hot chips processing facility slated for Victoria’s west - saying its success relies on protecting the farmland that will supply it.

The Allan Labor Government confirmed last week, that international food manufacturer Farm Frites Australia is set to build its first Australian production plant in Dooen, near Horsham — a project expected to create 250 local jobs and process up to 250,000 tonnes of Australian-grown potatoes each year.

Announcing the project, Minister for Economic Growth Danny Pearson said the investment would drive regional development.

“This is a huge investment that will see hundreds of jobs created for local workers, driving revenue for the Wimmera and right across the state,” he said.

However, the VFF has warned that overlapping infrastructure and mining proposals nearby could threaten the farmland that underpins the project.

VFF President Brett Hosking said local potato growers face increasing pressure from transmission line and mineral sands developments.

“This facility is dependent on a constant and reliable supply of potatoes, and that production is at risk from competing developments,” Mr Hosking said.

“It feels like the government is rushing through things without properly thinking through the consequences of their decisions.”

Mr Hosking said Victoria needs a better land-use plan to balance farming, mining and infrastructure.

"Our farmers are world leaders, but we must protect the land they grow our food and fibre on before it’s gone forever.”