Fresh State of Affairs Issue 17

april

17 2013

ISSN: 1838-7829

issue 17

april 2013

what’s on :

16

04

10

Relocation:

Market History:

Retailer Focus:

Doomsday on April 29, and Fresh State Position Paper.

1990-2000. The colourful decade that was.

Fresh by name, fresh by nature.

Family-run business Altona Fresh.

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24

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Tony’s Tomato Sauce:

Persimmons:

Q&A – Joe Granieri:

Guide to make Tony’s perfect tomato sauce using Alfresco tomatoes, plus Ida’s recipe.

The return of one of Australia’s best kept secrets – Persimmons are the perfect treat this season!

Enjoys working in the market and being in a successful business with his family.

CONTENTS

ADVERTISING

02 What’s on

12 Anzac Day

19 Pitstop

08 Brady IPS & Data Fresh

03 President’s message

14 Around the markets

21 Calendar of events

20 Lions Golf Day

09 Fresh Connections 2013

18 Top ten

26 Rural leadership update

21 ISS Prorack 23 Alfresco 28 MAB

Published by:

www.freshstate.com.au tel: 03 9689 3233

Fresh State CEO: John Roach john.roach@freshstate.com.au Editor / Advertising: Sonja van Eijk sonjav@freshstate.com.au Contributors: Sally Piper sallyp@freshstate.com.au

Design: Flying Dog Designs www.fddesigns.com.au Photography: Michael Lamond admgr.gfv@ruralpress.com Peter Casamento www.casamento.com.au

Print: King Print www.kingprint.com.au Distribution: Fresh State of Affairs is produced by Fresh State Ltd and is a free publication.

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president’s message:

Shane Schnitzler From the President Welcome to edition 17 of Fresh State of Affairs, and what a start to the year we have had! All the store holders that have a lease and an allocation in Epping have been threatened with losing them, and our livelihood, on 28 March (past) and now Doomsday of 29 April 2013.

The Government & MMA have held a gun to our heads to get their white elephant at Epping across the line.

However my hat goes off to almost all of you! 94 lease holders have signed documents binding us all together in what no doubt will be a lengthy battle with the Liberal Government.

And yes it is a battle for your business investment and survival!

Remember those words “the intention to lease form is not binding” … That was 28 March but the signing of Leases on 29 April will mean Doomsday under this Government’s model!

The DBI (Department of Business and Innovation) worked a team of people day and night phoning, texting and leaflet dropping releases almost on a daily basis and demanding we sign their intention to lease form or lose our right to Epping. All this whilst not disclosing true rent numbers, warehouse numbers, alteration costs and the endless list goes on!

So its not a one way street, Or what’s in it for me.

The following message are lines from a famous football club and relates to us and our current position.

Side by side that’s how we go about our business.

On the field, or off the field.

When you’re in need, When your team mate is in need, We turn up.

That’s what side by side is about.

It’s what can I do today To make your life easier.

Remember those words “the intention to lease form is not binding”…

That was 28 March but the signing of Leases on 29 April will mean Doomsday under this Government’s model!

Our relocation article is interesting reading and our history articles are now up to 1990-2000. We cover Anzac day , our young leaders , Tomato sauce , Persimmons and Q&A with Joe Graneri.

Shane Schnitzler President Fresh State Ltd.

The whole team Working as one.

We have a job to do, It’s us against them.

Disclaimer: Fresh State Ltd makes this magazine available on the understanding the users exercise their own skill and care with respect to its use. Before relying on, or altering any business practices, users should carefully evaluate the accuracy, completeness and relevance of the information for their purpose and should obtain appropriate professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances.

This magazine contains views and recommendations that do not necessarily reflect the views of Fresh State Ltd. Fresh State does not in any circumstances accept responsibility for the accuracy or suitability or otherwise of any in-

formation published in Fresh State of Affairs. Fresh State Ltd specifically disclaims all and any liability for loss or damage of any nature whatsoever and however arising, whether due to accuracy, error or omission or any other cause.

In addition, by using the information in this magazine, each user waives and releases Fresh State, its staff and agents from any and all claims relating to the use of this document. In no event shall Fresh State Ltd be liable for any consequential damages resulting from using the information in Fresh State of Affairs. © Fresh State Ltd 2013

This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior permission from Fresh State Ltd. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to: The Editor Fresh State of Affairs Magazine Market Box 113, 542 Footscray Road West Melbourne VIC 3003

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issue 17

april 2013

relocation:

OF AFFAIRS

Is a successful move to Epping just a mirage that continues to sit on the horizon?

The State averted its 28 March drop dead date by announcing a last minute change to say that the Intention to Lease document was “not binding”.

That is, they backed away from their 1 March statement that said “If you do not submit an Instruction to Lease by this time, you will have forfeited your store allocation at Epping”.

Now 29 April 2013 looms as doomsday because “If you do not sign the Leasing Documentation by the deadline, you will forfeit your Epping store allocation”.

But as a store holder you know that if you sign these documents under the Government’s current model you will be forced out of business by the burden of costs. So is a successful move to Epping just a mirage that continues to sit on the horizon?

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The market complex is 98% built so what is the Government’s rush to get lease holders signed up when store holders have their allocation and the ballot gave them their position at Epping?

The Victoria Auditor General Office (VAGO) report of March 2012 was nothing short of scathing regarding the whole relocation project from day one. One of its pointed comments was that there were no tenants signed up before the project commenced.

sustainable cost model for tenants in place that would give any comfort to a successful relocation.

Other VAGO comments were that “stakeholder management was not effective” and “a lack of communication with market tenants contributed to the delay in relocation” – it appears nothing has changed!

This is a forced relocation and the State acquired the land to build it. They have built it and they still can’t tell you any of the details needed for you to make an informed business decision.

The VAGO report said “that tenants still lack the basic information needed for them to make a decision on relocation”. And some eighteen months out from the move, (yes, relocation is now the second half of 2014 not 1 July 2014) there is no

Industry Forum …

The market community came together for an Industry Forum on 19 March. The Forum heard presentations from wholesalers, retailers, flowers and growers with the strong, common theme coming through – “we will all be forced out of business under the current Government’s model”! The outcome was that we need to continue working together and that costs need to reflect the current business environment not what happened a decade ago.

However there are a number of things that get conveniently pushed aside. This is a forced relocation and the State acquired the land to build it. They have built it and they still can’t tell you any of the details needed for you to make an informed business decision – interesting way of doing business!

And everyone seems to forget that while the Government is trying to “sc… over” the thousands of small businesses and their employees in the fruit and vegetable industry, they still sit on a big parcel of land three kilometers from the city worth half a billion dollars or more!

FSA Edition # 16 was right …

Fresh State of Affairs was right on the money when it predicted “Baillieu to Oblivion”.

Mr Baillieu joins both Mr Brumby and Mr Bracks who are no longer holding their positions since the relocation project was first announced.

We now have our fourth Premier, sixth Minister and fourth MMA CEO, (not counting two Acting CEO’s), since this project commenced a decade ago.

relocation:

Why the rush

by Government?

06

issue 17

relocation:

OF AFFAIRS

Position Paper March 2013

1. Store Rent Rates: That rent rates are applied on the same per m² basis that should have been in place at Footscray Road prior to the revenue raising anomaly with the application of an extra 3.3% compounding from 2008 to 2012 inclusive.

For the purposes of clarity, the 2012 per m² rent rate was $273. The 2012 rent rate, less the compounding anomaly of 3.3% (200812) is $246 per m² . This rate, including the 4% annual increases for 2013 and 2014, are deemed to be the commencement rent rate on a per m² basis at Epping or $266 per m² in 2014.

2. Moratorium: To allow for a period of establishment, adjustment and stabilisation at the Epping Market, a moratorium be placed on rent increases from commencement at Epping for a period of three years (excepting CPI increases).

Prior to the third anniversary, a market rent review is to occur to ascertain rent rates including a business valuation methodology. Rents, as an outcome of this review, may either increase or decrease.

3. Lease terms: Given the objective of a market rent review, the current model of options for lease terms requires a more consistent approach.

Initial lease periods need to be more condensed and consistent with the intent of point 2 above.

4. Lease conditions: The current draft Agreement for Lease and Lease documents for Epping contains many points that require a “normalised approach”.

Fresh State shall be permitted to negotiate the terms and conditions of the proposed Standard Store Lease and proposed Standard Agreement for Lease at Epping.

This will reduce tenants’ legal costs ensuring the documents are fair and reasonable.

5. Personal Guarantees: Personal guarantees as a condition of lease signing and holding are not acceptable.

Rental bonds as currently proposed as a condition on lease provide sufficient comfort to the MMA.

april 2013

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6. Alterations: It is not accepted that leaseholders are liable for the costs of alterations at the Epping Market. The compulsory alterations currently required to be carried out by leaseholders in order to obtain a certificate of occupancy and trade from their store at Epping must be completed and paid for by the MMA and/or the State of Victoria.

This includes, but is not limited to: providing ceilings to stores and offices as well as the required fire sprinkler work and lighting to meet occupancy requirements; providing walls to offices; cool room doors and associated panelling for the rear door area to replace the unusable roller shutter system; the heat exchanger and tenancy glycol system needed to connect the central plant system to tenant usage and the blower system for individual tenant usage within their stores; the framework required to support the tenancy glycol system and blower configuration; provision of a solid dividing wall between tenants of small stores where required (56 m² stores).

That the current incumbents of warehousing at Footscray Road have holdings recognised. That is, current warehouse tenants are granted financial recognition of their equity over the course of an agreed period. This includes position of their warehousing at Epping, lease terms and rent with financial recognition applied as a rent reduction or some financial way that derives a similar value.

9. Operating Rules: That the operating rules model is revised so as to remove the burden of responsibility being imposed on store tenant lease holders. The fear of removal of leases for events that, at times, could be beyond the control of lease holders creates doubt to the standing of their leases and businesses.

10. Current Retail leases:

To clarify, alterations to be provided by the MMA and / or State are those things that allow the tenant to “turn the key and trade” in a basic form that meets occupancy requirements and cooling provisions. In effect, this should meet our “like for like” objectives.

That current retail lease operators such as cafe operators, hire companies, gas station owners, forklift repairers, industry suppliers and Industry Associations are afforded the same standing as store lease holders. That is, that these leaseholders’ interests in the current market be recognised and the MMA / State complete the required alterations that provide these lease holders with a suitable tenancy to trade.

7. Fit Out:

11. Licence Operating Holders:

That the internal configuration fit out, including any internal cool rooms, additional blowers, pallet racking, internal office fit out and down stairs office booths are the responsibility of each store holder.

That the Licence Operating Holders such as Unloaders are afforded similar “like for like” objectives to store lease holders and current retail lease tenants.

continued >

relocation:

8. Warehousing:

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OF AFFAIRS

Position Paper March 2013

issue 17

april 2013

14. Gain Allocation: The “gain allocation” and resulting contingent liability is flawed. The payment of $3,000 m² by the leaseholder if they sell their allocation after they sign an AFL and within the sunset ten year period is inadequately described.

The payment needs to include a base whereby the initial $3,000 m² is first achieved before activation of the gain payment liability.

12. Trading Stand Holders: Trading Stand holders be offered stand licence space on a “like for like” basis.

That is, that the space that you occupy at Footscray Road is offered to you at Epping.

15 Signing of Intention to Lease and Lease Documents: Due to factors beyond store lease holder’s control, they have been unable to make informed decisions in regard to the signing of their Agreements for Lease and Lease Documents. Store lease holders should be able to make informed decisions regarding signing of Lease Documentation. To this end, a proper extension of time be granted from 29 April 2013 until all items are resolved.

13. Loss / Gain Allocation Disputes: The disputes that remain outstanding from the loss / gain allocation of space be addressed forthwith.

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09

fresh connections 2013:

There is no better excuse to go to Fresh Connections 2013 and check out the sites and sounds of Sydney! The options are endless!

1

Darling Harbour is at the epicentre of Fresh Connections 2013 and boasts an array of entertainment and dining choices as well as the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre. Chillax and enjoy waterside drinks with your colleagues and friends before enjoying the Sydney nightlife.

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For a change of pace, step into another world and experience the natural beauty, architecture and culture of one of the only Chinese gardens outside of Asia.

Initiated by the local Chinese community to share their rich cultural heritage and celebrate Australia’s 1988 Bicentenary, the Chinese Garden is the result of a close bond of friendship and cooperation between the sister cities of Sydney and Guangzhou in Guangdong Province, China.

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Expand your horizons and jump on the iconic monorail.

Stopping at all of Sydney’s best attractions, Sydney Monorail is the perfect combination of easy transport and an essential Sydney experience. The Monorail glides over busy streets and links the City’s top shopping, attractions and hotels with Darling Harbour.

our recommendations: • A ferry ride to Manly or Balmain is a must.

• Famous Masterchef Australia Chef Adriano Zumbo also has patisseries in both Manly and Balmain which are worth a taste test.

• Visit the historical Rocks precinct.

• Stay at the Sofitel – outstanding!

• Animal watching at Taronga Zoo. • C heck out Circular Quay and the Opera House precinct.

• Go river rafting.

• Climb the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.

So with all these suggestions, you may need to stay in Sydney a little bit longer over the long weekend in June this year!

Joe Brancatisano from VB Fruit.

For further information and to register your attendance at the Fresh Connections 2013 Fresh Produce Conference go to : www.pmafreshconnections.com.au

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OF AFFAIRS

issue 17

april 2013

Melbourne’s

1990 - 2000 Most of us remember the 1990’s well and for those that don’t, here are some pointers to jog your memory: • F ashion was big hair with lots of gel and spray, mullets, torn jeans - the tighter the better, lots of earrings including feathers, hip hop bright baggy clothes, grunge rock, loose flannels, preppy: khakis, navy blazers and of course the Converse All Stars!

• T he most popular names for babies during this decade were Matthew and Jessica.

• T he world mourned the tragic passing of Diana Princess of Wales.

• A Liberal government was elected under Jeff Kennett which made sweeping cuts to public expenditure, the closing of many schools, privatising the tramways and electricity production, and reducing the size of the public service. Key Melbourne landmarks built included Crown Casino, the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre (Jeff’s Shed) and the new Melbourne Museum.

Other changes were happening as well: • N ame change – The Victorian Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers Association Inc changed their name to ‘The Victorian Chamber of Fresh Produce Wholesalers trading as Fresh State’.

• A logo was designed for Fresh State that is still current today.

• T he Australian Banana Industry brought banana groups together to promote bananas in a big way - with their objective to promote Australian bananas, irrespective of origin.

Australian Banana promotion took off with television advertisements, AFL and other sports sponsorships and a catch phrase of ‘Bananas are good enough for me’ that became a household jingle. he Melbourne Markets Credit T Service is born!

The Credit Service began as a Credit Monitoring Scheme and eventually progressed to the Credit Service it is today.

“The Executive Committee has formulated a Credit Monitoring Scheme to make members aware of total amounts owing by debtors in the market. This will act as a guide to alert members to the amounts owing by

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Market History

people who may not have the business to fund such amounts. The scheme has now developed into a four column layout, each column holding the fixture owed for four consecutive weeks. Rises and falls may be monitored over a period of time.

I urge non participants to tender their debtors ledger each Thursday and Friday as I’m sure the information will be most beneficial … LET’S NOT BE THE CHEAP BANKERS WE ARE NOW!” Extract from President Frank Prestia’s Report of the 15th Annual Report, 1990 - Victorian Fruit and Vegetable Wholesaler’s Association Inc (now known as Fresh State).

By the mid 1990’s a Credit Service for the then ‘Melbourne Fresh Centre’ had been approved by the Fresh State Board. “The Cooperation of chain stores and independent retailers would be sought for the scheme, designed to simplify credit provision in the market” said Fresh State Manager Secretary of the time (the late) Dizney Crombie.

• M arket By-Laws were updated to provide for infringement notices for many offences that were previously taken to court. The new by laws provided for $100 on the spot fines for 15 offences within the market.

• A $11 million National Horticultural centre was proposed for Victoria in 1991 which included parklands, potted plants, cut flowers, fruits and vegetables. However the government did not support this concept due to budgetary conditions.

• T he National Flower Centre was constructed on the Melbourne Markets site - up until construction, flowers had been traded casually in the fruit and vegetable market three mornings a week.

Melbourne Fresh Centre Market Trust is replaced by MMA • T he Agriculture Minister announces that the Melbourne Fresh Centre Market Trust would be replaced by a three member Melbourne Market Authority following the release of a report of the Review of the Melbourne Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable Market by a Parliamentary Committee.

• T he report recommended that all executive management positions at the market be declared vacant, so that the new Authority could establish a new management structure.

• I n recommending the creation of the MMA, the report was critical of the existing Trust and management structure advising it did not meet the needs of market users. “Maintenance of the status quo would ensure the eventual demise of the market and is, therefore, not an option”, the report said. “The challenge is to put to the Melbourne Market Authority – ensure the relevance of the market, or preside over its eventual demise”.

Hopefully this article has awakened your memory as to other happenings in the Market around this time …What else do you remember that happened in the nineties in the Melbourne Markets that had an impact on your business? Drop us an email at sallyp@ freshstate.com.au and we will publish your comments in the June Edition of the magazine.

Images clockwise: • B uyers fight to get limited produce.

• Activity in the grower’s market, Footscray Road. c.1970.

• Official Opening of the new market.

30 October 1969.

• Fruit Inspectors Jack Bass and Alf Jones check a display for topping in the 1960s at the Queen Victoria Market.

• Extreme West Wall looking East.

Total span: 219.46 m.

anzac day:

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OF AFFAIRS

issue 17

april 2013

Wholesalers

march on Anzac Day Anzac Day services are held throughout the world and in almost every town and city in Australia.

Hundreds of thousands of people attend, spanning the world’s time zones from New Zealand to North America.

Overseas a number of Anzac Day service are held at the site of major battles where Australians have fought and died. These include Gallopli, Turkey; Villers-Bretonneux, France; Sandakan, Malaysia; and Hellfire Pass in Thailand.

At the Melbourne Wholesale Markets, many have been involved or have relatives/friends that have taken part in a war, conflict or peace keeping missions regardless of nationality. Scars run deep and memories are still very real for those directly impacted by

the atrocities of war. Silence is often their most preferred medicine and we respect that and honour them for their sacrifice.

In Australia, Anzac Day usually begins with a dawn service, often followed by a gunfire breakfast or sausage sizzle organised by a local RSL branch.

A commemoration march of veterans (retired, reserve and currently serving) takes place during the morning, sometimes ending at a church in time for a commemoration service.

In Australia, Anzac Day usually begins with a dawn service, often followed by a gunfire breakfast or sausage sizzle organised by a local RSL branch.

FAST FACTS: • A NZAC is an abbreviation of The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.

• A pril 25, 1915, was the day the Anzac’s landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula, now known as Anzac Cove to battle the Turkish army during WWI. • M ore than 11,000 Anzac’s died on the Gallipoli Peninsula, despite only being there for eight months.

• T he original Anzac biscuit was known as an Anzac wafer or tile and was part of the rations given to Anzac soldiers during World War I. They were included instead of bread because they had a much longer shelf life.

• A nzac was originally named the Australasian Army Corps. However protests from New Zealand led to the adoption of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. Administration clerks found the title too long and adopted the abbreviation of Anzac.

• D espite being affiliated with Australia and New Zealand, Anzac included officers from Britain, Ireland, India, Zion, Ceylon and the Pacific islands.

• “ Lest We Forget” is a phrase popularised in 1897

by Rudyard Kipling, which was adopted as the final line of The Recitation along with the “Ode of Remembrance”, taken from Laurence Binyon’s “For the Fallen”.

• T he last surviving Anzac, Alec Campbell, died on May 16, 2002.

• T he Anzac Bridge was given its name on Remembrance Day in 1998 to honour the memory of the Anzac’s. An Australian Flag flies atop the eastern pylon and a New Zealand Flag flies atop the western pylon.

In 1916, the first anniversary of the Gallipoli landings was commemorated, more formally in Australia, New Zealand and England. Troops awaiting deployment from bases in Egypt also observed the anniversary. In Australia, many women wore black as a sign of mourning. In London, more than 2,000 Australian troops marched along Whitehall to Westminster Abbey for a memorial service.

By the 1920s, Anzac Day ceremonies had become an annual event in Australia and the day had been designated a public holiday. In the 1930s, the focus shifted from mourning the dead to remembrance by the living. Servicemen who had survived the war began to commemorate and celebrate their own experiences, sometimes to the exclusion of women.

A pattern established of quiet reflection and remembrance during the dawn service, followed by a veterans’ march and informal social events in the afternoon.

In 1940s, Second World War veterans joined Anzac Day marches, which later included returned servicemen and women from conflicts in Malaya, Indonesia, Korea and Vietnam. Today the march includes veterans from recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as peace-keeping operations.

During the 1960s and 1970s, attendance at Anzac Day services and marches fell and there was growing debate about the relevance of the day. This was linked to debate about Australia’s role in Vietnam. Vietnam veterans found themselves rejected by society as well as other veterans

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on their return, and, as a result, many refused to participate in Anzac Day services or marches.

By the 1990s, Anzac Day attendance experienced resurgence with many younger Australians making pilgrimages to the Gallipoli peninsula itself, often as part of overseas travel to Europe.

Today, Anzac Day commemoration includes all wars, conflicts and peace keeping operations where Australia has played a role, not only the Gallipoli Campaign.

And of course, Anzac Day badges will once again be available to purchase from RSL service member Neil Mays on the market floor from the 22 April.

anzac day:

Many Wholesalers and Retailers from the Melbourne Wholesale Markets will wear either their own medals (worn on the left breast) or family medals (worn on the right breast) and march in an Anzac Day Service on 25 April 2013.

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around the markets:

OF AFFAIRS

issue 17

april 2013

1

3

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10 9

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9. Hayden Tran from Fruitland in Ringwood East picks up some fresh beets.

10. Chris Kotsanas and Veli Velisha.

11. Dawn approaches.

12. The Three Amigos – Tommy, Joe and Sam. 13. Joe Taranto from Rich River Produce.

14. Bruno Roda and Robert Apted.

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15. Peter Italiano from Get Fresh in Greenvale with Vince Deagostino from Holmans.

15 1. C hin Brothers Alby and Nick get cosy with Emilio Lorenzetto.

2. Its all about the Forklift!

3. Zhno from Vic Market pushes his wares.

4.

Lisa from 4 Ever Fresh.

5. BFF Neighbours Mo from E&R with Robert at Melb Pear.

6. Forky Anthony Liddle from Tullamore Gardens.

7. F reshcrop’s Vince Corrone and Johnny Pham from NNH Fresh Produce.

8. C hris Walker & Frank Bugge from Big Valley get up close and personal with Michael Manariti from Sandringham Fruit Market.

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issue 17

april 2013

retailer focus:

OF AFFAIRS

Fresh by name – Fresh by nature ….

“We have a million and one products” says Phillip Palamara, and he is not far off the mark!

Altona Fresh Fine Foods is brimming from floor to ceiling with an abundance of product ranging from fresh produce that Phil sources from the Markets every day to an amazing fully stocked delicatessen, cheeses, dry goods and even a patisserie!

Phil has been coming to the Melbourne Markets since he was 15 years old. “These days there is an abundance of stock available so I can get to the market at around 5am which isn’t too bad”. Phil loves the excitement of coming to the market and describes it as ‘another world’ full of colourful and interesting characters.

“The quality in the markets has improved over the years and supply is high so it helps me to on sell only the best quality to my customers”. His hot tip for purchasing quality products is to try before you buy. “I like to sample everything before I buy it and that’s why I am a good size” jokes Phil.

Right: It’s a family affair with Melissa, Enzo, Phil, John and Sandra.

Far right: Phil promotes his produce in store.

Altona Fresh Fine Foods is a hidden treasure in a small shopping strip surrounded by suburbia in Altona North.

Only fifteen minutes from the CBD and with affordable housing, Altona has become a popular residence for young professionals as well as the traditional working class. The store has evolved to suit its changing market, stocking bulk continental products as well as new niche products to give customers the choice they want and expect. “We just ran a Facebook campaign on coconut yoghurt which was very popular” says Enzo, Phils brother and self proclaimed ‘gopher’.

It is certainly a family affair originally established by father Onofrio Palamara.

“Dad opened Palamara Fruit Supply in Richmond back in 1954 and we went from there” continues Enzo. “We ended

up over Altona way and started this family business in 1990”.

Phil heads up the fresh produce department, sister Sandra is in charge of the delicatessen, sister Diana’s husband John looks after groceries and the delicatessen, Enzo’s wife Melissa works in Customer Service and with youngest brother Enzo ‘picking up the slack’.

“We are really fortunate with the depth of talent in our family who can contribute to the business and keep us modern and relevant” says Enzo. “Sandra’s daughters have set up a fantastic website and Facebook page, Phil’s son is an accountant and is keeping us up to date with the latest and greatest systems and the list goes on”.

Phil is the face we all know in the markets and his face is also well

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Food is our Love. Family is our Life.

Feed Family Love … This is a family of natural marketers who have embraced a changing environment and have used it to their advantage. known to his customers in the store.

“Phil is known as the store spruiker and he creates a great atmosphere” says Enzo. “Customers feel like they are at home”. Phil walks around with produce for tastings and is constantly educating customers on quality and brands.

The website’s tagline says it all ‘Food is our Love. Family is our Life. Feed Family Love’. It’s simple and hits the mark. This is a family of natural marketers who have embraced a changing environment and have used it to their advantage.

Sandra agrees. “People don’t know what to do with products. We need to educate customers on combination possibilities”. Sandra says she recently suggested a customer try an orange and fennel salad. “The customer came back the next day and was so happy with the recipe. It’s all about trying the product” she said.

Altona Fresh Fine Foods is a greengrocer on a mission that is filling a niche and growing market in today’s modern times. It is a thriving family business that is concentrating on its core business – providing its customers with high quality, well priced produce – and doing it well.

Credit Service makes life easy Altona Fresh Fine Foods have been a loyal Credit Service user which has made life at the markets easier for Phil together with the strong relationships he has built up.

“I still get great deals in the Credit Service because I have solid relationships with sellers which is the key”. Phil also has the guarantee that he is buying from a reputable seller in the market.

Enzo says the Credit Service assists with administration because of four key components: 1. Streamlining 2. You know what you have spent 3. You have a two week window to pay 4. Enables you to stay on top of things John Roach, who currently heads up the Credit Service says that with such a large amount of sellers in the Credit Service it is great peace of mind for buyers such as Altona Fresh Fine Foods when doing business at the Melbourne Markets.

“It is good to know that you are buying from a reputable seller who has a history and provides good quality fresh produce” he says.

“That is a huge benefit of being a member of the Melbourne Credit Service”.

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issue 17

top ten:

OF AFFAIRS

A survey was conducted from the four Market Cafes and the Top Ten Coffees rated by popularity are:

Everywhere you walk in the Market you are sure to see someone drinking a cup of coffee. “Coffee is our biggest seller of all,” says Wendy at Norm’s Café.

1. Cappuccino

Steve from Café 2 agrees “we start selling coffees at every night until around 9am the next morning.”

It is probably the most 10pm famous Italian coffee. Once you have added the coffee and the steamed milk, it is very important to create a very solid milk foam; this is the essence of this coffee.

2. Caffé Latte It is a typical French coffee. It is prepared with an espresso and a generous amount of steamed milk.

3. Espresso It represents the most intense type of coffee flavour and is served as a shot.

4. Macchiato Macchiato’ simply means ‘marked’ or ‘stained’, and in the case of caffè macchiato, this means literally ‘espresso stained/marked with milk’.

5. Hot Chocolate Although not coffee, this humble drink is still a hot favourite (and a great alternative to coffee) with customers at the market.

6. Caffé Mocha A variant of the Caffé Latte - made with an espresso, steamed milk and chocolate syrup with milk foam over the top.

7. Frappé A coffee flavoured milkshake – the Frappe is a blended combination of cold milk with ice cubes, vanilla ice cream, coffee and a bit of chocolate.

Helen from Café 2 enjoys the ever popular Latte.

8. Iced Coffee Different to the Frappe, an iced coffee is made from a combination of chilled coffee and milk.

Ice cream and a topping of whipped cream can also be added.

9. Granita Caffé This is a cold espresso. Once you have prepared the coffee let it cool in the fridge.

Once it is cold mix it with a glass of crushed ice cubes and add sugar to taste.

10. Turkish Coffee Roasted and finely ground coffee beans are boiled in a pot, usually with sugar, and served in a cup where the grounds are allowed to settle.

april 2013

19

pitstop:

A race to find the

healthiest market The Royal Flying doctor Service flew into Adelaide Markets last month to provide a Pit Stop service to wholesalers.

AFL Port Power player Brett Ebert, MasterChef All Star Callum Hann, Sonny Pineapple and of course Australian Chamber President Shane Schnitzler all turned up to spread the word about good health.

RFDS Central Operations Health Services Program Manager Mary-Jane Honner says the Pit Stop program aims to make a health-check fun, quick and rewarding.

“Studies show that men take their car for a service more often than they take themselves to the doctor for a check-up, even when they know something may be wrong” she says.

The Pit Stop health checks highlight the need for men to look after themselves by keeping themselves roadworthy and are held in partnership with the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetables and GlaxoSmithKline.

“The Australian Chamber was once again really pleased to be a partner in this important event and hopes it continues to spread the message to the guys in the market that they have to look after themselves” said Shane Schnitzler. “We are holding a Pit Stop in Perth next so it will be interesting to see which market is the healthiest in terms of men’s health”.

Perth Markets will host the next Pit Stop on Thursday 2 May 2013.

Crunching the Numbers: Adelaide Produce Markets

of unroadworthy participants were advised to have a GP checkup.

50%

87%

of participants officially checked by a scrutineer.

47% of participants issued an ‘unroadworthy’ sticker.

of participants awarded a blue registration.

39%

3%

of participants determined a high risk factor.

The Pit Stop health checks highlight the need for men to look after themselves by keeping themselves roadworthy.

20

OF AFFAIRS

issue 17

april 2013

Annual Charity Golf Day Lions Club of Melbourne Market & Fresh State Limited

REGISTRATIONS BY 26TH APRIL On websites: www.freshstate.com.au www.everydayhero.com.au

An invitation is extended to sponsors, businesses and groups to compete in the 4 ball Ambrose Golf Competition.

All proceeds go to DebRA – working for a life free of pain

At: Kingston Links Golf Course Corporate Avenue, Rowville.

On: Friday 10th May 2013 at 1pm.

On Course Competitions with Prizes Include:

Schedule for the day:

• Hole in One with a Fiat 500 Car as the prize (valued at $29500)

• 1.00pm – Shotgun start

• 12.00 noon – Registration

• Winning Team of the day

• 5.30pm – Shower facilities, pre dinner drinks

• Nearest to the pin

• 6.00pm – Dinner & Presentations

• Longest drive

Catering for all participants: • Sandwiches and drink on arrival • Drinks after the game • 2 course Dinner with drinks

calendar of events

25 APRI

2 1 1 1 13

L

Anzac Day.

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02 m ay

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25

june

JUNE

The Australian Chamber Pitstop at Brisbane Markets.

Fresh State of Affairs Edition #18 available.

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Fresh Connections 2013: Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Registrations now open at: www.pmafreshconnections2013.com.au

The Australian Chamber Pitstop at Perth Market.

05

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www.issprorack.com.au

22

OF AFFAIRS

NA POLETA A N s ’ IDA : RECIPE ion c and on

issue 17

Step 1: “You need the right kind of tomatoes for a perfect sauce” says Tony. These tomatoes (above) are just right – thanks to Charlie at Alfresco Fruits.

rli e oil with oliv uce mato Sa o T s ’ y n ste • Add To ing to ta n o s a e s / s t • A dd herb erate hea d o m n o boil it • Bring to ours and h 4 3 r o f • Simmer g! for eatin y d a e r tables is eat, vege m , a t s a • A dd to p !

Delicious ! g in h t – any

• Sauté ga

Tony’s Tomato Sauce Making tomato sauce the traditional way is a dying art in today’s fast paced ‘grab and add’ world. So when we heard Fresh State’s Tony Nigro was making his annual tomato sauce from scratch with his family, we tagged along to see how it is done - the Calabrese way!

Step 2: The tomatoes are washed and graded – these tomatoes were near perfect so not much grading was required.

april 2013

Step 3: They are then put through a specialised juicing machine which separates the pulp from the skin. The pulp is collected in large sterilised buckets ready for bottling.

Step 4: Step 3 is repeated using the skin to make sure that every last bit of the pulp of the tomato is utilised.

Step 5: Washed basil is put into sterilised bottles ready for the sauce mixture.

Tony’s 90 year ‘young’ mother Ida has been

making this sauce, this way for as long as she can remember.

Her mother made it this way and her mother’s

mother made it this way.

Ida inspects each process to ensure it is being made correctly.

23

Step 6:

Step 7:

The tomato pulp is poured into the bottles and it is a team effort with Tony’s sister Frances assisting with pouring duties.

Tony’s special job is to seal the bottles using a bottling machine.

Step 8: Industrial gas burners are fired up ready to cook the sauce! Cut 44 gallon drums are used as giant pots and the

bottled sauce bottles are placed inside – approx 90 bottles per drum.

These are filled with water and brought to

the boil. Once boiling the bottles are simmered on a moderate heat for two hours to preserve the sauce.

t: 03 9687 9411 e: Charlie@alfrescofruits.com.au

tony’s tomato sauce:

Tony says the sauce can keep for even longer than a year but there is usually not much left by this time.

24

OF AFFAIRS

issue 17

Persimmons Persimmons are a Perfect Treat this Season.

Aussie fruit lovers are in for an incredible autumn with the glorious golden glow emanating from orchards across the countryside signalling the return of one of Australia’s best kept secrets – the persimmon.

Excellent growing conditions fuelled by lashings of sunshine and ample water supplies, thanks to previous wet seasons, have paved the way for a bountiful crop of quality fruit with high sugar levels, excellent flavour and a strong shelf life.

One person who has been impatiently anticipating the harvest of the yellowy-orange orbs is Poh Ling Yeow, persimmon-lover,

Original persimmons have been grown in Australia for almost 150 years, most commonly as a decorative tree in domestic gardens, and are known for their large, heart-shaped silhouette and colour, which ranges from pale orange to deep red-orange.

In contrast, the sweet persimmon is round, with a diameter of around 10cm, and has a slightly

Persimmons have double the dietary fibre of apples, are high in anti-oxidants and are an excellent source of Vitamin C and beta carotene. presenter of ABC TV’s Poh Lends a Hand, bestselling author and MasterChef all star.

“Despite the fact that persimmons have been grown here for decades, many Aussies are yet to try this exotic fruit, so this season I’m challenging everyone to be adventurous and given them a go. Persimmons truly are the perfect addition to your autumn eating agenda offering an almost indescribable subtle, sweet flavour and fantastic textures to boot,” she said.

Poh said she grew up eating sweet persimmons, which are best devoured crunchy and firm like an apple, but now also enjoys the original variety, which is ready for eating when the flesh is soft, jelly-like and sweet.

“I think the best way to enjoy persimmons is fresh. I like to peel and quarter the sweet type as it’s a brilliantly clean, tasty and healthy snack.

With the original, I love to tear or cut away the calyx – or the top – then scoop into nature’s little bowl of ready-made, sweet, silky jelly” said Poh. Along with their flavour credentials, persimmons have double the dietary fibre of apples, are high in anti-oxidants and are an excellent source of Vitamin C and beta carotene.

flattened top. Introduced around 40 years ago, this variety now comprises around 90 per cent of production.

Did You Know: • A ustralia produces approx 2500 tonnes of persimmons annually – less than 1% of world production. However production is on the rise with new plantings in New South Wales and Victoria driving industry growth.

• Q ueensland is the major producing state but harvesting also occurs in coastal NSW, the Goulburn and Murray Valleys in Victoria and South Australia as well as South West Western Australia.

• T he original (astringent) persimmon has been grown for decades in Australia.

• C ommercial production of original persimmons is generally confined to regions around Sydney and Victoria.

• S weet persimmons (non astringent) were introduced to Australia in the late 1970’s and now comprise more than 90% of local production.

• P ersimmons are in season from late February to mid June (Autumn to Winter).

april 2013

25

persimmons:

“Next to eating it in its most natural state, like a fresh apple, this is the next best way to have a persimmon.

Of course, it is an idea stolen from the tried and tested combination of melon and prosciutto, but it works so well.

The saltiness of the prosciutto is delicious with the sweetness of the persimmon. I would always recommend an Italian or Spanish prosciutto because they are far less salty, leaving the meat soft and sweet”.

Poh Ling Yeow’s Sweet Persimmon with Prosciutto 1. Peel and slice four sweet persimmons into wedges.

2. Wrap each wedge with a slice of prosciutto.

3. Squeeze desired amount of lime juice over the top and sprinkle with cracked pepper.

Courtesy of Persimmons Australia Inc.

26

growing leaders:

OF AFFAIRS

issue 17

april 2013

Callum, Daniel and Mark have completed the Growing Leaders Course and invite other wholesalers in the Market to do the same.

g

Leading Wholesalers spread the word to ...

w o r

The word is out – a new date has been set for Growing Leaders 2013 and Melbourne Wholesalers are on the hit list!

Growing Leaders 2013 is the National Leadership Program for the vegetable industry designed for people wishing to take up leadership roles at all levels of business and industry leadership.

The main focus of the program is for participants to develop an understanding of how to have a positive impact in their business and industry.

“We have had five wholesalers in the Melbourne Markets complete the Growing Leaders Course” says John Roach, Fresh State CEO. “It is fantastic to see these wholesalers take the next step in their development and want to be more involved as leaders in the industry … that’s what we want to encourage”.

Fresh State has been an active advocate of the Growing Leaders Course hosting the Melbourne arm of the course at the Market as well as being a sponsor of the program.

Past participant, Daniel Scavo from Young Sang & Co said the fantastic relationships formed and networking opportunities were a standout. Avanti’s Mark Lorenzetto agreed “its all about branching out and getting out of your comfort zone,” he said.

2013 Course Dates Residential 1: 28 to 30 May Gold Coast Residential 2: 27 to 29 August Melbourne Residential 3: 26 to 28 November Canberra The six month/nine day course involves: • Skill development sessions in key leadership areas including communication, conflict management, team building, personalities, networking and effective meetings.

• Guest

speakers on current and relevant industry issues.

• Industry

functions – tours and industry dinners.

The final residential part of the course has become a highlight as participants present their final projects in Canberra.

“Representing our industry in front of politicians and senior industry officials was definitely the biggest highlight ” said Callum Cormack from Moraitis.

For more information or to register to participate in the Growing Leaders course please contact Jill Briggs at Rural Training Initiatives at: jill@ruraltraininginitiatives.com.au or 0409 455 710.

“I enjoy working in the market and being in a successful business with my family,” Joe Granieri – Granieri’s Fresh Produce Pty Ltd.

Like so many wholesalers in the Melbourne Markets, Joe Granieri is made out of Italian stock and born into the business of selling fresh produce.

Works:

My fondest memory is:

Business owner and sales manager of Granieri’s Fresh Produce Pty Ltd (selling potatoes, watermelon, onion, pumpkin, garlic and avocado) and Rich River Produce (selling eggplant, chillies, zucchini, tomatoes and capsicum).

Getting married, the birth of my two children (Jessica 22 years old and Michael 20 years old) and of course when Collingwood won the 2010 Grand Final!

Lives:

The aspect of my job I Iike the most is:

Rowville.

Succeeding in business.

Most of my day is spent:

The thing I dislike the most is:

Ordering stock and playing golf.

Being burnt by customers.

The football team I barrack for is:

I am passionate about:

Collingwood.

Being successful.

The quality I respect most in a person is:

My business associates would say that I:

Honesty, good time management and hard working.

As I have grown older I have learnt: To be smarter with money.

The qualities I most enjoy about Melbourne Market are: So many different people that are part of the market culture.

The pets I have are: A dog called Elly, two cats and a cockatoo.

In my spare time I enjoy: Playing golf and watching AFL footy – thank god the season has now started again!

My first job was: I started working at the Melbourne Markets when I was 18 years old and have been here ever since.

Am easy going and friendly.

The place in the world I would most like to go is: Italy.

My favourite fruit or vegetable is: Mango.

His father and cousins were grower/ packers of potatoes in Gembrook and would come to the Market early every morning to sell their produce.

“I never had another job besides working in the business.” says Joe. The family eventually bought a B Stall and became full time agents under the banner of Granieri’s Produce before selling the business to Moraitis. Joe, his father Tony and brother Tommy, then became a team and worked at Big Valley for eight years before starting their own business again on the other side of the market. Sister Maggie came on board and for the last four years the family have enjoyed working together in a successful business.

They now own the adjoining business Rich River Produce and Joe’s daughter Jess is also walking in his footsteps and working full time in the family business.

Known for his easy going attitude, Joe is well liked around the market and always has a smile on his face.

“I enjoy working in the market and being in a successful business with my family,” he says. “Golf makes me happy, even though I am a hacker, and so does my football”.

And now that the football season has started look very closely into the crowd next time Collingwood are playing. See if you can spot a black and white Italian wholesaler flapping his wings and hoping for a win!

[Ed: Next edition we are putting a ban on Q&A Collingwood supporters].

Q & A:

Joe Granieri

27

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The information on this Ad has been prepared by MAB Corporation solely for promotional purposes. The information contained herein has been prepared in good faith with due care. Any projections however, represent estimates only and may be based on assumptions which, while reasonable, may not be correct. We do not warrant the accuracy of information contained on this Ad and do not accept any liability for any error or discrepancy or negligence or otherwise in the information. The information contained herein does not constitute all, or any part of an offer or representations for any property referred to herein. All plans, subdivision, surveys, development plans, artists’ impressions, photographic material and other such material are representative only. All parties must make their own enquiries and obtain independent advice in order to verify any or all information. © Copyright MAB Corporation. April 2013.