Fresh State of Affairs Issue 32

2016

32

OF AFFAIR

S

may

MARKET HOURS CHASING OUR TAILS SINCE 1941

2

issue 32 may 2016 ISSN: 1838-7829

OF AFFAIRS

w

on s ’ t ha

OF AFFAIRS

DANDENONG DISTRIBUTION CENTRE PROPOSAL

CONTENTS 02 What’s on 03 President’s message 06 Market hours 08 Meet the FSL CEO 11 Fresh State gala ball 2016 14 Around the market 16 MMCS update 21 Jack visits the market 22 FSL membership benefits 23 Calendar of events 24 Top ten 26 Q&A: Sam Cutrale

Another DC to potentially compete with our market?

Does it make sense?

OF AFFAIRS You be the judge …

4

THE BEAUTY THAT IS THE DRAGON FRUIT OF AFFAIRS

12

ADVERTISING

MELBOURNE MARKET CHARITY GOLF DAY

10 Stamford Real Estate / Fresh Test / Shisham Stanley

20 Epping Plaza Hotel 24 Art & Style 27 MAB 28 Bayford Volkswagen Epping

PUBLISHED BY:

freshstate.com.au tel: 03 9408 6627

We take a closer look at Dragon fruit and why it is becoming so popular with mainstream consumers.

Records broken as the golf day raises over $65,000 for charity.

18

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Paul Hodgson paul@freshstate.com.au

DESIGN: Flying Dog Designs fddesigns.com.au

PRINT: Revolution Print revolutionprint.com.au

EDITOR / ADVERTISING: Sally Piper sallyp@freshstate.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Sally Piper sallyp@freshstate.com.au

DISTRIBUTION: Fresh State of Affairs is produced by Fresh State Ltd and is a free publication.

PROOFING: Tony Nigro tonyn@freshstate.com.au

3

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Welcome to the Edition 32 of the Fresh State of Affairs Magazine where we introduce you to some exciting news relating to our annual Ball, some new initiatives and of course our new Chief Executive.

have not only been regular supporters of the Fresh State of Affairs Magazine but will also be providing all Fresh State members with a pretty hefty discount when we purchase any new vehicles through them. This will include free business signage on the vehicles if required. We think this is a big benefit for our members and encourage you

glycol accounts, Horticultural Code of Conduct, pallets and of course market hours which have hit front page news yet again. Fresh State will be active in liaising with not only our members but a broader section of the market to search for a solution to this debate so that we can stop chasing our tails once and for all.

Fresh And to top off State's new this Edition, we A NEW DATE AND VENUE HAS BEEN SET FOR CEO Paul announce that Hodgson THE ANNUAL FRESH STATE GALA BALL! IT WILL a new date and has been venue has been TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY 3 SEPTEMBER AT THE working set for the annual with us for Fresh State Gala PENINSULA AT THE DOCKLANDS IN MELBOURNE. the last few Ball! It will take months place on Saturday to pop over and introduce yourself and many of you would have met him 3 September at The Peninsula at the on the market floor and at our Mid Year to Luke and the team at Bayford Docklands in Melbourne. Planning is Volkswagen Epping and see what sort Meeting in April. It has been full steam well underway and it is sure to be a of deal they can do for you. There will ahead since his appointment and I fantastic night or weekend away if also be 'End of Financial Year' open thank all members for their support of you choose that option. Please save days in June exclusive for Fresh State Paul and introducing him to the fresh the date in your diaries and spread members with even more discounts on produce industry. You can read more the news. offer so check our Calendar of Events about Paul and his thoughts on the for details. industry in this Edition.

We would also like to welcome our new corporate sponsor Bayford Volkswagen Epping who are situated opposite the market. Bayford Volkswagen

Our Mid Year Meeting was a huge success and great to see so many members participating. We covered a lot of areas such as the ongoing

Shane Schnitzler President Fresh State Ltd.

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. Š Fresh State Ltd 2016

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 Store 36, Melbourne Market 35 Produce Drive Epping VIC 3076

4

OF AFFAIRS

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

A PLANNED DC IN DANDENONG

DOES IT MAKE SENSE? Sketchy plans crept their way onto the market floor in late April in the form of a proposal for a Dandenong Distribution Centre.

In the case of a ‘build it and they will come’ scenario, the proposal centres around the assumptions that: (a) Sellers would prefer to utilise this facility rather than the Epping facility which they have already invested in; (b) There are more retailers/consumers in the Dandenong precinct than anywhere else in Victoria; and (c) The proposal is a financially viable operation that will break even by 2017.

The Dandenong proposal is not new news. In fact it has been touted as far back as 2010 when spokesperson for the private consortium, Rod Kerley suggested the Boundary Road site as an alternative to Epping.

Nonetheless, even after a multi million dollar court case that saw wholesalers fight back to gain better lease arrangements at Epping, and a government spend of over $600M on the facility which is now fully operational, Kerley and his supporters have proceeded to assume that the Dandenong model is still a viable option.

In fact the ‘proposal’ claims that customer and supplier demand has grown and that a private consortium is looking to capture an estimated 25% of the market trading volume for their distribution operation. These are interesting claims and we delve a little deeper into the proposal to see if they can be substantiated…

THE PROPOSAL’S OBJECTIVES ARE TO:

Time has been taken to record travel distances as a key factor to support the move however no mention has been made of the quality, amount or variety of produce that will be available which is a concern. It is all very well to shorten travel distances, but you may well have to end up going to two markets to purchase all your requirements if the DC has short supply or dare we say it, poor quality.

1. Provide understanding of the customer and supplier market share opportunity.

Unfortunately there is no supporting documentation or references to verify the correctness of any of the data in the document. Although the proposal states that there are compelling reasons for a DC in Dandenong, it doesn’t translate into any reliable facts and figures.

THE ‘CENTRAL MARKET’ SYSTEM CENTRES AROUND TRADING OF FRUIT AND VEGETABLES AS ITS CORE BUSINESS AND MAIN FOCUS – IT ATTRACTS THE BEST BUSINESSES, BEST PRODUCE AND BEST TRADE.

5

2. Provide understanding of best in class conceptual design for a Dandenong DC. The Epping site is a State of the Art facility and in fact the newest central market in the world. Sure a few tweaks could be done and hindsight is a great thing, but is that a good enough reason for another facility to be built and who is going to fund this site without guaranteed return on investment?

3. Quantify viability of the development venture and operation.

Again with no data to verify the assumptions, how can

THE WHOLE PURPOSE OF A CENTRAL MARKET IS TO PROVIDE A VARIETY AND QUANTITY OF STOCK IN THE ONE PLACE FOR COMPETITIVE TRADING PURPOSES. The proposal states that the southeast corridor in the Dandenong DC Catchment is estimated to grow by 26% by 2030. What it fails to mention is the comparable growth across other areas of Melbourne. The growth area’s in Melbourne according to

viability be quantified? Why would a tenant who has invested in a lease at Epping, move to Dandenong with no surety of demand? It is suggested that a 60% capacity will ensure viability.

Capacity of what type of business?

of income streams’. The ‘break even base case’ model relies on other product ranges joining its ranks such as grocery lines, eggs and specialty products sounding more and more like a Queen Victoria Market or a giant Costco arrangement.

In comparison, the ‘Central Market’ system centres around trading of fruit and vegetables as its core business and main focus – it attracts the best businesses, best produce and best trade. This could be a way to separate the wheat from the chaff.

The Central Market system is under enough threat from large supermarkets setting up their own DC’s without our own industry diluting trade even further and turning on each other.

When are we going to work together as a united team or is the lure of the all mighty dollar just too good to refuse for the unknown private consortium?

The last thing players in the central market industry need is to fund a new DC facility that will eventually be taken over and utilised by our main competitors – the big supermarkets.

We need to be very, very careful in this space.

Will your business continue to trade in our Central Market system that has been tried and tested over 175 years and supported by supply/demand and a variety of produce? Or is your business able to survive a new start up DC venture and see where it takes you?

HOW CAN YOU PROVIDE A GUARANTEE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS VENTURE WHEN THERE IS NO GUARANTEE OF A VIABLE OUTCOME? the Metropolitan Planning Authority from May 2015 confirm that Casey and Cardinia are indeed growth areas however it also notes that the municipalities of Hume, Melton, Mitchell, Whittlesea and Wyndham are also growth areas. Coincidentally, these are all closer to Epping. Limited growth is projected for the Yarra Ranges, Mornington Peninsula and Nillumbik areas.

Will a variety of stock be available and will this take into account short supply?

The whole purpose of a central market is to provide a variety and quantity of stock in the one place for competitive trading purposes. How can you provide a guarantee to participate in this venture when there is no guarantee of a viable outcome?

The forecasted economic return for the Dandenong DC states it will provide break even viability in 2017 with ‘low risk due to diversification

Perhaps you could even do both to hedge your bets?

The choice is yours to make but the future is sketchy at best …

6

OF AFFAIRS

issue 32 may 2016

MARKET HOURS OF AFFAIRS

- CHASING OUR TAILS SINCE 1941 With relocation now well and truly bedded down, market hours has become the hottest topic to hit the floor once again.

The market landlord, the Melbourne Market Authority (MMA), always committed to readdressing market hours on the twelve month anniversary of the relocation to the new facility at Epping. As promised, they will roll out a consultation process by August of this year to market users.

The MMA say the more information they have the better the solution that can be achieved. "At Epping we have much better data and tracking technology" says MMA CEO Mark Maskiell. "We can ascertain who is coming and going and at what times." This data will be collated and

both Fresh State and the Wholesale Advisory Committee want market hours to be the same for everyone which is a fair enough call. But firstly, the current operating hours need to be enforced which is a big task for the MMA. "We understand the current issues," continues Mark. "We need to be better at enforcing the rules currently in place."

And of course the elephant in the room is the fact that once again, history is repeating itself as the market community run around in circles like mice in a cage. "We got consensus from wholesalers, retailers and growers in the 1970's," remembers past Fresh State Life Member, Dom DiMattina.

"We have had discussion after discussion and taken this all the way to the top, but nothing has changed."

THE TIME FOR TALKING HAS WELL AND TRULY RUN ITS COURSE AND THE BEST ACTION IS TO CHANGE THE HOURS ON A TRIAL BASIS ‌ IF IT WORKS THAT IS GREAT AND IF NOT, REVERT BACK TO THE ORIGINAL TIMES. analysed to form part of the report regarding current and future usage of the market but the MMA say they will also look logically and fairly over this well debated issue as well. "We have an open mind as to what it looks like but market hours need to be right for the whole community".

Dom feels the time for talking has well and truly run its course and the best action is to change the hours on a trial basis and 'suck it and see'. "If it works that is great and if not, revert back to the original times, but the continued discussions and disgruntlement is not getting us anywhere".

Whether it be to move to a 24/7 model or start later in the morning,

History repeating itself over and over and over again ‌

OF AFFAIRS

WILL 2016 BE THE YEAR THAT MARKET HOURS ARE PUT TO BED ONCE AND FOR ALL? The long term effect of ad hoc market hours on market tenants: HEALTH AND WELLBEING Sleep, work, eat and repeat. Our bodies were not designed to run off inadequate sleep and restricted natural sunlight. We need our health or we have nothing.

QUALITY OF LIFE Spending time with friends and family, playing sport and relaxing in the sunshine has always been a struggle if you work in the market but essential to why we run our own businesses - for freedom. But we need a work/life balance.

STAFFING CHALLENGES A business is only as good as the team that run it and the produce it sells. Without quality staff the business is at risk. The challenge is attracting and retaining staff long term to work current market hours especially with winter approaching. We need continuity and quality staff.

COMPETITIVE DISADVANTAGE Some traders are adhering to the rules and others are trading wherever and whenever they like. Unless this is controlled and managed, the central market system in Melbourne will eventually disintegrate. We need the same hours across the board for everyone.

"When the Council persuaded the fruit merchants to move from the Western Market to the Queen Victoria Market, the merchants made it a pre-condition that the opening hours should be no earlier than 6 am. That hour was, in fact, achieved only for some days of the week from 1941 to 1968, but the merchants constantly advocated later starting, and the question of hours become more 'vexatious' after the consolidation of the Market.

The merchants faced special difficulties because they employed considerable staff as salesmen and office workers. The earlier the staff had to be at the market, the more difficult was for them to get the calibre of people they needed, and the greater the penalty payments incurred."

Extract from Melbourne Markets 1841-1979 Edited by Colin E Cole.

Will 2016 be the year that Market Hours are put to bed once and for all? "We certainly hope so," says Fresh State President, Shane Schnitzler. "It is time the entire market community realised that we all need each other in order for the central market system to survive and we need to work off the same level playing field to achieve this."

Make your voice count when you are invited to have your say about market hours and think about the big picture in this debate as opposed to your own individual businesses.

After 75 years it is certainly time for action and to stop feeding those mice in the cage! The Fresh State of Affairs Magazine will continue to update you on this hot topic as it unravels.

8

OF AFFAIRS

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

FRESH STATE CEO BRINGS ‘FRESH’ LOOK INTO FRESH PRODUCE Officer to lead the business into 2016 “I was lucky enough to run another Fresh State has a long history. and beyond. not for profit association and have Over its one hundred years in worked with a variety of others,” he Paul brings with him passion, energy operation, it has continued to says. “I have seen how the good ones and a ‘fresh’ look into ‘fresh produce’ evolve and grow into a leading operate, and some at the other end of having previously worked in a variety the spectrum as well.” business in Paul says he intends to the industry THE FRESH PRODUCE INDUSTRY IS A UNIQUE utilise the good aspects thanks to strong of this experience and ENVIRONMENT … IT IS VERY COLOURFUL leadership tweak areas that can be improved.

AND VIBRANT WITH MANY CHARACTERS. and strategic direction by The Fresh Produce MATESHIP WITHIN THE MARKET IS EVIDENT Industry is a unique the Fresh State WITH THE RESPECT TRADERS HAVE FOR environment and Paul Board, delivery has hit the market floor EACH OTHER ON ONE HAND YET REMAIN by the Fresh running, as he gets to State staff and know the dynamics of FIERCE COMPETITORS AS WELL. the industry. “It is very support of the colourful and vibrant Fresh State of roles and industries including event with many characters. Mateship within members. management and children’s toys. the Market is evident with the respect Early this year, Fresh State again commenced a new chapter in its history with the appointment of Paul Hodgson as its new Chief Executive

Paul believes the experience of these environments are transferrable to Fresh State and will benefit both the business and its members.

traders have for each other on one hand yet remain fierce competitors as well.”

9

One of the major differences Paul has found has been the hours that some businesses are working compared to other industries. “It’s unsustainable on your health and it has to affect home and family life,” he says. “A Fresh State member recently told me he wants his kids to come to work in the market and they said to him ‘No way Dad, we just don’t want to work the hours. When we are having dinner and about to watch television, you are asleep. We never see you’”.

Paul also has a background in event management having recently sold his very successful start up business in Indonesia, which built and leased exhibition equipment. He believes the key to success in business is adaptability and change.

“Wholesalers have just undergone the biggest change in a generation.

Accepting the inevitable change and adapting your business model to accommodate the change is the key to growth in this environment,” he says. “Change is not a bad thing but definitely offers opportunities too.”

“Those that have adapted to the change from West Melbourne have flourished and I can see a few that unfortunately have not. Fruit and

Veg obviously is a strong industry, and not going anywhere but like any industry those that initiate change in their business with the ever changing environment will grow.”

You will see Paul on the market floor and at many of the upcoming events that are on the annual calendar. He also has an open door policy and invites members to pop into the office to have a chat if they miss him on the floor.

ACCEPTING THE INEVITABLE CHANGE AND ADAPTING YOUR BUSINESS MODEL TO ACCOMMODATE THE CHANGE IS THE KEY TO GROWTH IN THIS ENVIRONMENT. In his spare time Paul is an avid horse racing enthusiast having worked at the VRC in Flemington when he was a young marketing graduate. “I learnt all about the game and met most of the players at that time. Over the years I have been involved in a few good horses, and a few not so good horses.

It doesn’t matter if you win a race on Cup Day at Flemington or a maiden at Mildura they are always a great thrill.”

All in all Paul says he is just a regular guy who enjoys the usual things watching horses run, battling the weeds in his garden or seeing his beloved Bulldogs play which usually takes a day each weekend.

“It is a really positive time for Fresh State and there are a lot of opportunities for growth and success for the industry as a whole. I look forward to turning those opportunities into realities so stay tuned….”

10

PRODUCE TESTING FOR INDUSTRY

BY INDUSTRY

DOES YOUR PRO Fresh Test is the largest and most comprehensive testing program in Australian Horticulture

Fre tes

DED

• per • we

COM

• sub • sav

Dedicated and experienced team Competitive pricing Convenient, simple and quick Find out how you can save money and quickly, easily and conveniently have your produce tested.

T: 03 9408 6627 E: freshtest@freshstate.com.au

freshstate.com.au/freshtest

CON • • • • • • •

we one we an eas qui Wh (inc

PALLET RACKING SYSTEMS

freshmarkets.com.au/freshtest

FOLLOW US ON Heavy Duty Welded Drive-in & Selective Racking.

Ripening Drive-in Racking Evaporator Supports

BOLLARDS & DOOR GUARDS

CUSTOM STAIRWAYS

Stairways Walk Ways & Platforms Bollards & Door Guards RIPENING DRIVE-IN RACKING

EVAPORATOR SUPPORTS

Guard Rails

AUSTRALIAN FAMILY OWNED COMPANY WITH 0VER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE 1 Bennet Street Dandenong Vic 3175 Email: info@stanleywelding.com.au CALL US TODAY ON (03) 9791 4622 OR GO TO www.shisham.com.au Australian Trade Mark No: (847603) Copyright c 2014 Shisham Stanley, All Rights Reserved

11

NUE E V NEWW DATE NE

2016 SAT U R DAY 3 S E P TE M BE R 2 01 6 At: Peninsula, Central Pier, Docklands

Sponsorship opportunities now available

SAVE THE DATE

Please contact Sally Piper at sallyp@freshstate.com.au or 03 9408 6627 for more information.

12

OF AFFAIRS

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

THE BEAUTY THAT IS THE Dragon fruit is a unique fruit that is starting to slip its way into mainstream retailer stores as we move into 2016.

with small spines or leaf-like scales depending on the variety. The fruit can have red skin with red, white, or purple flesh, yellow skin with white flesh, or combinations of other colours.

has only really taken off in the past 15 years. The edible part of the fruit is the inner flesh, which has a texture somewhat like a melon with numerous small soft seeds distributed throughout the flesh. Fruit pulp represents upwards of about 80 percent of the mature fruit weight.

A beauty in its own right, the Dragon It is grown all over the world (in tropical fruit originates from Mexico and and subtropical regions) and the belongs to the cactus family. It loves warm conditions, Dragon fruit is grown not too much DRAGON FRUIT IS GROWN IN AUSTRALIA AND WAS in Australia and was rain and is at its originally introduced ORIGINALLY INTRODUCED INTO QUEENSLAND best when the into Queensland in the sun goes down. early 1980's. It is now IN THE EARLY 1980'S. IT IS NOW GROWN IN THE “It you go to my grown in the Northern NORTHERN TERRITORY, PARTS OF WESTERN orchard at night, Territory, parts of it is full of flowers” Western Australia and AUSTRALIA AND NEW SOUTH WALES. says Jamie who New South Wales. is a Dragon fruit Most of the farms are grower in Darwin. robustness of the plant enables them small scale and supply to the local “Night time is when everything is to grow under different ecological market only.

However, the Northern happening and the fruit is pollinated”. conditions. In Vietnam, the fruit has Territory, being the major production Interestingly, the fruit is pollinated by undergone extensive development area, also ships to the central markets insects as well as moths and bats. with nearly 2000 ha under cultivation. around Australia.

Also known as Pitahaya or Pitaya, Elsewhere, the fruit is still considered a “We have been trading Dragon Dragon fruit is elliptic in shape new fruit and commercial cultivation fruit since 2008 and it compliments

13

ALSO KNOWN AS PITAHAYA OR PITAYA, DRAGON FRUIT IS ELLIPTIC IN SHAPE WITH SMALL SPINES OR LEAF-LIKE SCALES DEPENDING ON THE VARIETY.

WITH WINTER ON ITS WAY IT MAY BE TIME TO BUMP UP YOUR DRAGONFRUIT INTAKE: Dragon fruit is packed with nutritional goodies like calcium, which helps strengthen bones, and fibre, which keeps hunger at bay.

The tiny edible seeds inside are loaded with omega-6 and omega-3, two essential fatty acids that your body can’t produce on its own. One cup of Dragon fruit also delivers a high percentage of your daily vitamin C, which helps support your immune system!

our other lines of exotic fruit and vegetables,” says Peter (pictured) from Produce of Virginia.

Peter says the fruit becomes more popular every year and these days the major chains are jumping on board with cooking shows also promoting them as unique ingredients. “It has become more mainstream with more independents stocking the fruit,” continues Peter.

Shane Schnitzler from Produce Time has also made inroads into Dragon fruit and says that it is the unique marketing qualities of the product that makes it a big ticket item. “The fruit is popular in the Asian community as an offering on a new moon,” he says. “It is also used to give as a gift and is considered extremely honorable to receive.”

Dragon fruit is currently unable to be imported into Australia however this could change in the next year with the Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources recently commencing a review of biosecurity import requirements to consider a proposal to import fresh Dragon fruit from Vietnam.

Vietnam is a big commercial producer of Dragon fruit after being introduced by the French 100 years ago. In 2015, Vietnam exported almost 900,000 tonnes of Dragon fruit to several countries, including the major export markets of the USA, Netherlands, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia and Singapore, with Australia next in line as a target. It is expected that the review will be completed by the end of 2016.

Source: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity/risk-analysis/reviews/current-plant/ dragon-fruit-from-vietnam

DRAGONFRUIT CHIA PUDDING INGREDIENTS

METHOD:

1 ½ cup coconut milk 3 tbsp chia seeds 1 cup chopped Dragon fruit A pinch of salt 2 vanilla beans 1 tsp coconut oil 4 tsp honey

1. Soak chia seeds in coconut milk for about 30 minutes.

2. Add remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.

3. Serve with Granola, fresh fruit, nuts, seeds for a colourful immune boosting breakfast or snack.

14

01

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

02

03 OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

AROUND THE MARKET

13

01 BRETT WILLIAMS FROM COOLIBAH HERBS AND CHARLES CHAN FROM OPALJADE. 02 BROTHER JOSEPH COLLECTING DONATIONS FOR MISSIONARIES OF LOVE AND PEACE, GREENDALE. 03 THE FRESHMAX TEAM SHOW US HOW IT'S DONE. 04 PERFECTION FRESH GOLF PROS. 05 FRESH STATE CEO PaUL HODGSON WITH TMH'S SCOTT BOCKSETTE.

12

06 VB SCULLI MILKING THEIR TEE SPONSORSHIP. 07 VINNIE BRANCATISANO AND ALBY CHIN. 10

09 11

15

04 05

06

14 15

07

08 THE TOYOTA MATERIAL HANDLING TEAM. 09 THE ORINO BOYS - COS AND TERRY. 10 TUNSTALL FRESH TEAM. 11 FRANK, MIKE AND JOE FROM COSTA FARMS. 12 FSL GAS STATION MANAGER SHQIPE PRUSHI WITH AFL LEGEND JOHN PLATTEN. 13 VALET CAR WASH TEAM LOOKING SHARP. 14 ROBERT APTED, BRUNO RODA, SUE APTED AND CONNIE RODA AT THE FSL MID YEAR MEETING. 08

16

OF AFFAIRS

ALL SYSTEMS ‘GO’ FOR THE CREDIT SERVICE

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

The Melbourne Markets Credit Service has jumped full steam ahead since the upgrade to their system that commenced in late 2015 and the results speak for themselves.

“We continue to receive positive feedback from MMCS users as they get used to the online portal and see the benefit” says Fresh State CEO Paul Hodgson. Benefits include flexibility, added security and refining of processes.

The MMCS is currently seeing a resurgence in new accounts being opened which is a win-win for the market community as the days of cash only become more and more obsolete.

To assist new users to navigate the system or for more general information about how the service can assist businesses, an information session has been scheduled for 26 July and anyone in the market community is invited to attend.

New staged changes will also occur over May which will further enhance the service: EFT PAYMENTS ONLY FROM 27 MAY 2016 The MMCS will move to EFT only payments from 27 May 2016. This will include an option for users to deposit cheques directly into the MMCS bank account.

LATE AND SHORT PAYMENTS

NEW CUSTOMER ACCOUNTS

Repeated late and short payments affect cash flow of businesses. The MMCS will tighten processes on late payments which may lead to suspension or even cancelled accounts

The MMCS will hold a breakfast for new users that would like assistance in joining or more information. “New or potential users can come in and have it all explained and we will even

THE MMCS IS CURRENTLY SEEING A RESURGENCE IN NEW ACCOUNTS BEING OPENED WHICH IS A WIN WIN FOR THE MARKET COMMUNITY AS THE DAYS OF CASH ONLY BECOME MORE AND MORE OBSOLETE. in some instances. “We hope we don’t have to suspend any businesses and will communicate with late and short payers to help resolve any issues during the process,” says Paul.

help fill out the forms”, continues Paul.

“We want it to be as easy and straight forward as possible while still ensuring our stringent application processes are maintained.”

17

MMCS NEW USER INFORMATION SESSION TUESDAY 26 JULY AT THE FSL BOARDROOM A great introduction to how becoming a user of the MMCS can save time, reduce paperwork and benefit your business.

For more information or to RSVP contact Paul on 03 9408 6627 or email admin@melbmcs.com.au

FINDING BALANCE IN OUR

TECHNOLOGICAL WORLD COMMUNICATION

EFFICIENCY

Communication is a key area when it comes to utilising technology.

We now have access to multiple communication channels such as email, mobiles, internet, social media and video conferencing. Choosing the right tool for the right job is the key. with a balance of good old fashioned face to face contact which will never go out of vogue.

Office technology saves times by speeding up the work flow process.

Digital filing systems save space, paper and printing costs. The use of computer systems allow corrections to be made instantly.

RESOURCING STAFF Businesses utilise the internet and social media sites to advertise job vacancies and managers can target candidates by using digital advertising technology and even undertake personality profiling.

However, the all important face to face interview still plays an important part in the process to ensure the right fit for the position.

Resources like electronic files and access to information technology are available with the click of a button.

With the speed of technology there is still a necessity to pause and proof read before sending an important document or email to ensure it makes sense and of course check you are sending the email/document to the correct recipient.

MOBILITY Video conferencing technology lets businesses interact with one another no matter where you are around the world. Technology reduces travel costs because businesses can set up virtual

meetings and distribute data without the need to be in the same room.

To avoid being sucked into the Matrix, balance virtual meetings with face to face contact and relationship building which remains to this day, a key factor when working in the Melbourne Market.

HOW CAN WE IMPROVE YOUR CREDIT SERVICE? PLEASE TELL US! PHONE: 03 9408 6627 EMAIL: ADMIN@MELBMCS.COM.AU

18

OF AFFAIRS

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

MELBOURNE MARKET CHARITY GOLF DAY A BIG WINNER ALL ROUND! Friday 15 April 2016 was every Golfer's dream.

The Heidelberg Golf Club was in stunning condition and Melbourne turned on the best Autumn weather players could only dream about for the 2016 Melbourne Market Charity Golf Day. The Golf Day and Monster Raffle raised over $65,000 which will make a major difference to the small charity, DEBRA Australia who relies on third party donations to help those suffering with EB.

EB is likened to living with third degree burns all over the skin which blisters at the slightest touch.

This extremely painful condition is debilitating and requires 24 hour a day care placing severe financial and emotional strain on the family.

“We are overwhelmed with the result and thank everyone who supported this event,” said Golf Planning is now underway for a Golf and Day Chair Joe Amalfi. “When you see those Bowls Day next year, which will fully utilise the children suffering from an incurable disease like beautiful facilities at Heidelberg Golf Club and EB you just want to make a difference THE GOLF DAY AND MONSTER RAFFLE RAISED OVER to their lives and we $60,000 WHICH WILL MAKE A MAJOR DIFFERENCE TO have certainly done THE SMALL CHARITY, DEBRA AUSTRALIA. that today”.

Thank you to the Melbourne Market Golf Day Gold Sponsors for generously supporting this event.

Simone Baird, Family Support Coordinator for Debra Australia, provided the players with a glimpse of what living with EB (Epidermolysis Bullosa) is like for Tilly who is five years old.

Tilly’s life is consumed with medication and treatment including three hour bleach baths and bandage changes every second day.

THE STATS: • 124 PLAYERS • 11 TEE SPONSORS • 6 GOLD SPONSORS • 4 AFL PLAYERS • OVER $65K RAISED FOR DEBRA AUSTRALIA • NEW DATE FOR 2017 GOLF AND BOWLS DAY ON 24 MARCH 2017

provide more variety.

The Melbourne Market Golf and Bowls Day will take place on Friday 24 March 2017.

19

THE WINNERS: 1. FOUR BALL AMBROSE TEAM: Jason’s Mob consisting of Jason Sgro, Michael Surace, Sean Ronan and Stephen D’andrea 2. CLOSEST TO THE PIN: • Michael Dennehy (Team Tunstall Fresh)

• Craig Jewell (Team DQ International Travel) • Dale Ind (Team Freshmax)

• Chandra Naido (Team Flavorite Marketing) 3. LONGEST DRIVE Brent Stanton 4. TEE SPONSOR PRIZE WINNER: Brolec Pty Ltd

MONSTER RAFFLE: The Melbourne Market Golf Day Raffle was drawn on 15 April 2016 with Alfonso Liuzzi driving away with the first prize of a BMW 118i Urban Line. All raffle winners are published on the Fresh State website freshstate.com.au Top: Joe Amalfi (centre) auctions off AFL Football legends at the start of play – Essendon players Michael Hurley, Brent Stanton and DEBRA Australia Ambassador and Brownlow Medalist, John Platten.

Above: Special guests on the day included former AFL star Craig Bradley, 16 year old Eliza Baird who suffers from EB, former AFL star John Platten and Family Support Coordinator for Debra Australia, Simone Baird.

FOR MORE INFO

To view more photos from the Golf Day log onto http://www.freshstate. com.au/photo-gallery/ and if you would like more information on Gold or Tee Sponsorship for the Melbourne Market Golf and Bowls Day in 2017, please contact Sally at the Fresh State office at sallyp@freshstate.com.au

20

OF AFFAIRS

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

JACK COMES BACK! We all remember 16 year old Jack Evans from Very Special Kids who toured the market when we were back at Footscray Road last year.

ADVERTISEMENT

21

In March, Jack came back – but this time to Epping and had a tour along the Buyer’s Walk. Those in the market that have had the opportunity to meet Jack, know that he loves freeways. Specifically how you entered the freeway, what route you took and how long it took you to travel. “It is always humbling to have a chat to Jack”, says Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler.

“He is a smart kid but restricted by his body due to his condition. We all lead such busy lives but at the end of the day, Jack puts it all into perspective with some simple pleasures that we often forget”.

Highlights of Jack’s trip to Epping included speeding down the Buyer’s Walk which looked very similar to a freeway and of course making sure he stopped at the intersections to allow for forklifts and buggies to pass.

He was also able to chat to a few wholesalers who were finishing up for

HIGHLIGHTS OF JACK’S TRIP TO EPPING INCLUDED SPEEDING DOWN THE BUYER’S WALK WHICH LOOKED VERY SIMILAR TO A FREEWAY. the day and quizzed them regarding the way they would travel home. He is pictured here with Paul and Tony from VFS Produce and George Alvaro (centre).

Jack has a condition known as Spinal Muscular Atrophy which prevents him from walking or eating. It has no known cure and an uncertain prognosis.

Fresh State are proud supporters of Very Special Kids and in 2015 Fresh State, in partnership with the MMA, raised $22,000 for Very Special Kids through the relocation project Market on the Move.

Addy Wetzler, the Fundraising Lead at Very Special Kids said that Jack had not stopped talking about his visit to the market since he had returned to the VSK’s hospice which he regularly attends.

“Jack loves meeting new people and visits to the Footscray and Epping sites have been highlights for him during his recent stays in the Hospice. It has been incredible to see the way the market community has embraced Jack, and the generous donation from the community last year has gone directly to supporting children such as Jack.”

Very Special Kids is a children’s charity that cares for children with life-threatening conditions in Victoria, by providing the state’s only children’s hospice and offering professional family support services.

They currently help more than 900 families across Victoria with ongoing support from diagnosis all the way through to recovery or bereavement, and beyond.

22

OF AFFAIRS

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

THE BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

OF AFFAIRS

“FRESH STATE LTD REPRESENTS THE MAJORITY OF THE MELBOURNE WHOLESALERS AND THIS SUPPORT REFLECTS THE DIRECTIONS AND PROGRAMS TAKEN BY FRESH STATE TO PROVIDE STRONG REPRESENTATION, VALUE AND SERVICES TO MEMBERS.” – SHANE SCHNITZLER, FRESH STATE PRESIDENT

Being a member of Fresh State Ltd means you can benefit from:

with State and Federal Governments • C andommunication other associations/industry groups on your behalf

PLUS

anifest data of incoming market product • M volumes available free of charge nformation exchange through • I Fresh State of Affairs magazine and attendance at various meetings

and networking opportunities • S atocial our annual events such as the Fresh State Ball

insurance and rental • Reduced premiums central website to access • Aimportant information such as members Terms of Trade

pecial purchasing deals on • Sselect motor vehicles ccess to administration • A assistance and equipment

through the Fresh State office

• M MCS & Fresh Test discounts

Find out more at the Fresh State new member information breakfast on TUESDAY 12 JULY.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF: MELBOURNE MARKETS CREDIT SERVICE (MMCS) – melbmcs.com.au A professional service assisting sellers and buyers nationally to buy and sell using credit in the Melbourne Markets

FRESH TEST Chemical and microbial testing of fresh produce for wholesalers quality assurance programs DATA FRESH Current daily wholesale prices from the market floor (including historical data) FRESH SPECS A product specification standard which assists with meeting quality assurance standards

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT FRESH STATE AT 03 9408 6627 OR VISIT FRESHSTATE.COM.AU TO DOWNLOAD A MEMBERSHIP FORM

FRESH STATE GAS STATION Access to a fully manned, premium Gas Station at the Market

23

17-19 MAY 2016 Fresh Connections 2016 Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre Conference Trade Show proudly supported by Fresh Markets Australia and the Central Markets Association of Australia.

To register log onto: pmafreshconnections. com.au/

1-3 JUNE 2016 Sales Open Day Bayford Volkswagen Epping Pop over to the salesroom after your morning in the market and check out the EOFY deals. Don’t forget to mention that you are a Fresh State member!

23-25 JUNE 2016 2016 National Horticulture Convention RACV Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast Conference Trade Show proudly supported

by Fresh Markets Australia and the Central Markets Association of Australia.

To register log onto hortconv.com.au

26 JULY 2016 MMCS New User Information Session Fresh State Boardroom A great introduction to how becoming a user of the MMCS can save time, reduce paperwork and benefit your business.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Paul on 9408 6627 or email admin@melbmcs.com.au

12 JULY 2016 Fresh State New Member Information Breakfast Fresh State Boardroom Come along to find out what benefits you can receive by joining up to become a Fresh State member.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Paul on 9408 6627 or email paul@freshstate.com.au

18 OCTOBER 2016 Fresh State 2016 AGM

3 SEPTEMBER 2016 Fresh State Gala Ball The Peninsula, Docklands, Melbourne SAVE THE DATE! For more information or to inquire about sponsorship of this event, please contact Sally on 9408 6627 or email sallyp@freshstate.com.au

24

OF AFFAIRS

10

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

TOP

WAYS TO PREPARE FOR WINTER AT THE NEW

MELBOURNE MARKET 1 WARM VEGETABLE SOUP: Of course!

5 GLOVES: Frostbite! Say no more …

2 WARM BEANIE: Knit a very woolly warm

6 EXPLORER SOCKS: An oldie but a goody

beanie – utilise your resources by asking a knitting fanatic in the family and get the job done right the first time.

3 HIGH VIS VEST: Update your high vis vest to a fleecy line version or have one big enough to wear a warm jacket underneath or a high vis jacket. Think about branding your apparel as well for a smart and professional look – try Art and Style who are now located in Store 78A on the Buyer’s Walk.

4 UMBRELLA: With car parks in some parts of the market over 800 metres from your store – you are going to need protection at some point.

for keeping your pinkies warm and snug on those cold windy mornings.

7 HOT CHOCOLATE: With five café’s to choose from at the market, there is no excuse not to warm up your tummy.

8 ONESIE: If it gets too cold to handle try a themed Onesie for a very cool market look.

9 HAIR TIE: For those with long hair, the wind is going to knock you around so tie up those strands for peace of mind.

10 THERMALS: Nothing says warmth quite like them.

25

Sally’s Easy Peasy Vegetable Soup THIS SOUP IS PREFECT FOR A COLD WINTER’S DAY/NIGHT. FIRST THING IN THE MORNING OR BEFORE YOU GO TO WORK. 1 Throw any veggies you have at home, roughly chopped and washed, into a slow cooker.

2 Include a couple of potatoes, sweet potato, pumpkin, tomatoes, carrots, an onion, garlic and a whole dried (or fresh) chilli.

3 Add a handful of washed lentils, dried peas or barley if you wish.

4 Cover veggies half way with stock or water.

5 Season with some chicken stock powder, salt and pepper.

6 Spice it up with seasonings of your choice – try cumin, mixed herbs and some paprika – yum.

7 Turn on slow cooker to a low setting and cook for 6 to 8 hours.

8 Blend the soup in the stock pot with a stick blender, and it is ready to eat!

Try serving with fresh bread or use as a thick sauce with pasta.

Leftovers can be frozen in individual portions and taken to work for easy peasy lunches.

ADVERTISEMENT

Design & Print Management Signage Solutions Apparel & Promotional Products

STORE 78A

B u ye r s w a l k M e l b o u r n e M a r ke t s Contact Rahul: 0418 598 680

LATEST WINTER RANGE OF CORPORATE AND WORKWEAR IN STORE NOW

Fo l l o w u s o n I n s t a g r a m !

@artandstylemelb

STYLE TIP CREATE A VINTAGE LOOK BY BRANDING YOUR CORPORATE APPAREL WITH COLOURS SUCH AS COPPER, GOLD OR SILVER.

V E S T S • H O O D I E S • J AC K E T S B E A N I E S • J U M P E R S • B O OT S & M O R E w w w. a r t a n d s t y l e . co m . a u | a cco u n t s @ a r t a n d s t y l e . co m . a u

26

OF AFFAIRS

Q&A:

issue 32 may 2016

OF AFFAIRS

SAM CUTRALE

OF AFFAIRS

THE MARKET RELOCATION WAS INDEED THE START OF A NEW ERA FOR THE CUTRALE FAMILY IN MANY WAYS.

WORKS: As a Sales Rep at Perfection Fresh.

SUBURB WHERE I LIVE: Ascot Vale.

MOST OF MY DAY IS SPENT: Sleeping in order to start work at midnight.

THE FOOTBALL TEAM I BARRACK FOR IS: The Bombers.

MY FAVOURITE MELBOURNE MARKET MOMENT IS: Coming into the market as a kid on Saturdays with my Dad and enjoying a hot dog.

THE QUALITY I RESPECT MOST IN AN EMPLOYEE IS: Honesty, integrity and a good sense of humour.

AS I HAVE GROWN OLDER I HAVE LEARNT: Humility and to respect other people’s lives. You don’t know what is going on behind the scenes, so don’t judge people by how they look.

THE QUALITIES I MOST ENJOY ABOUT MELBOURNE MARKET ARE: The colleagues I work with who make it fun – Ryan, Travis, Johnno and Ronny.

THE PETS I HAVE ARE: A Labrador ‘pets for therapy' dog named Franz. He and his predecessor Jackson, were instrumental in Alex's care.

Our Q&A interviews have a way of unearthing some extraordinary people in our market community. We caught up with Sam Cutrale who has been a familiar face at the markets for 26 years.

In many ways Sam is an outcome of the consolidation that occurred prior to the move to Epping. As a co-owner of wholesale business TC Produce, the move to Epping was not viable due to their store allocation, so the tough decision was made to close. This ended up being a pivotal point in Sam’s life.

TC Produce was the partnership between Sam Cutrale and Phillip Taranto and lasted for about 16 years. Before this, the business was owned by Sam’s father Tony Cutrale and Sam used to visit the market on the weekends and school holidays.

Sam and his wife Sharon had two children, Georgia and Alex. Alex was born around the same time that TC Produce

IN MY SPARE TIME I ENJOY: Watching any type of sport on television and going to the footy. I especially like watching my daughter Georgia play hockey in Premier League for the Footscray Hockey Club.

MY FIRST JOB WAS: A research Scientist at the Dairy College in Werribee.

Sam has two degrees – Food Technology & Bio Technology.

MY FONDEST MEMORY IS: The birth of my two children, my wedding day and then of course the 2000 Premiership!

THE THING I DISLIKE THE MOST IS: Dishonesty and arrogance.

commenced trading and, at three months of age, it was discovered that he had a genetic condition known as Lissencephally (smooth brain). Alex had some verbal communication and low cognitive functions and was destined to a shortened life span and a life of full time care. The Cutrale’s life centred around Alex’s continued care and finding new and better treatments for him.

The day Sam finished up at TC Produce was ironically the day Alex got sick after contracting pnemonia. Unable to withstand the virus, he sadly passed away the following week at the age of 16 years which was a big shock and left a gaping hole in the family. Words are not enough to describe this loss and Fresh State recently presented Sam with a memorial family photograph taken by the Herald Sun when the Cutrale family generously shared their story for Market on the Move – the 2015 project that raised funds for Very Special Kids, a respite hospice that Alex regularly visited.

MY BUSINESS ASSOCIATES WOULD SAY THAT I: Am grumpy and a pain in the arse!

WHEN I WAS A CHILD I WANTED TO BE: A teacher – I did a year of a teaching degree but didn’t finish it.

THE PLACE IN THE WORLD I WOULD MOST LIKE TO GO IS: New York, New York!

THE THING A LOT OF PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME IS: I am a Premier League Hockey Umpire.

MY FAVOURITE FRUIT IS: Grapes.

Nearly two weeks after Alex’s death, Sam’s father Tony also passed away after a struggle with cancer.

The market relocation was indeed the start of a new era for the Cutrale family in many ways. Georgia is studying to become a paramedic inspired by her brother. Sharon is looking to re-enter the workforce after caring for Alex for 16 years, in her profession as a qualified nurse, and Sam is now working at Perfection Fresh.

This April, Sam and Sharon went on their first holiday together after 16 years, to New Zealand and it won’t be the last. Sam wants to keep working hard and get in as many holidays as they possibly can. Their next holiday will be to New York with Georgia and then who knows … the world is a big place.

And Alex – although no longer with us, he will always remain in the Cutrale’s heart and soul as they travel through the next phase of their life.

FOR SALE FROM

$210,000

*

ONLY 2 MINS FROM THE NEW MELBOURNE MARKET Join Rainfresh, Red Rich Fruits and VB Sculli

BUILT FOR BUSINESS AND READY TO MOVE IN NOW

COOPER

ST

Melbourne Market

Trade Stores 70m2 - 90m2

* Excluding GST

Call for further information or to arrange an inspection

03 8681 2222 | mab.com.au/tradecentral

THOMASTOWN

Y

Office Warehouses 130m2 - 240m2

HUME FW

Warehouse and trade store spaces available now at Trade Central, perfectly located within Alliance Business Park.

METROPOLITAN RING RD

82 Gateway Blvd, Epping, VIC 3076

EPPING

ON VOLKSWAGEN RUNNER VANS

MY16 Transporter Runner

$32,990

DRIVEAWAY *

2.0L 75kW TDI250 Manual Colour touch screen audio with Bluetooth® audio streaming Cruise control Rear parking sensors Lifting rear tailgate 5.8m3 cargo capacity 1,266kg payload

MY16 Caddy Van Runner

$23,990 DRIVEAWAY

^

MY16 Crafter MWB Runner

$39,990 DRIVEAWAY

#

MY16 Crafter LWB Runner

$46,990

DRIVEAWAY~

1.2L 62kW TSI160 Manual

2.0L 80kW TDI300 Manual

2.0L 105kW TDI340 Manual

Colour touch screen audio with Bluetooth® audio streaming

Bluetooth® phone connectivity

Electronic stability programme (ESP)

Cruise control

Bluetooth® phone connectivity

Cruise control

Rear barn doors

Cruise control

Rear barn doors

9m3 cargo capacity

Rear barn doors

3.2m3 cargo capacity

1,486kg payload

14m3 cargo capacity

779kg payload

1,289kg payload

Find out more at vwoffers.com.au Proud Business Partners of Fresh State Your Volkswagen Partner

Bayford Volkswagen Epping 350 Cooper Street, Epping LMCT8954 Tel. 9409 9000 bayford350@bayford.com.au ^Campaign driveaway price of $23,990 is for new MY16 Caddy Van Special Edition ‘Runner’ TSI160, manual, white (no added options) only. *Campaign driveaway price of $32,990 is for new MY16 Transporter Van Special Edition ‘Runner’ TDI250, manual, white (no added options) only. #Campaign driveaway price of $39,990 is for new MY16 Crafter MWB Van Special Edition ‘Runner’ TDI300, manual, white (no added options) only. ~Campaign driveaway price of $46,990 is for new MY16 Crafter LWB Van Special Edition ‘Runner‘ TDI340, manual, white (no added options) only. Offer applies to stock vehicles only. While stocks last. Excludes Government, fleet and rental buyers. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Volkswagen Group Australia reserves the right to change, modify or extend this offer. Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth® SIG Inc. Not all devices will be compatible and functionality will vary depending on the device.