Fresh State of Affairs Issue 34

2016

34

OF AFFAIR

sep

BUMPER ISSUE

S

2

issue 34 sep 2016 ISSN: 1838-7829

OF AFFAIRS

w

on s ’ t ha

OF AFFAIRS

HORT CODE COMPLIANCE

A timely reminder to wholesalers to avoid fines by not breaching the code.

CONTENTS 02 What’s on 03 President’s message 04 Fines, fines & more fines 10 Calendar of events 11 FSL AGM 12 Gala Ball awards 22 Turmeric recipe 23 Q&A: Chris Mertikas 24 Perth market 26 Top ten 28 Slow cooking movement 30 Simon George & Sons

OF AFFAIRS

8

FRESH STATE GALA BALL 2016 OF AFFAIRS Double pictorial spread of who's who at the Gala Ball this year, held at Peninsula in the Docklands.

14

ADVERTISING

TURMERIC

10 FSA Christmas messages 12 MMCS 19 Toyota Material Handling 32 Bayford Volkswagen Epping

Indulge in all the health benefits and great taste that Turmeric can bring to our fresh produce.

20 PUBLISHED BY:

freshstate.com.au tel: 03 9408 6627

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

DESIGN: Flying Dog Designs fddesigns.com.au

PRINT: Revolution Print revolutionprint.com.au

PROOFING: Tony Nigro tonyn@freshstate.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Sally Piper sallyp@freshstate.com.au Kim Thomas kimt@freshstate.com.au Happy Medium Photo happymedium.com.au

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

CONTRIBUTORS: Kim Thomas kimt@freshstate.com.au

3

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Welcome to a bumper edition of the Fresh State of Affairs which highlights our successful Gala Ball held on 3 September.

I would like to extend a big thank you to all the market community and our sponsors that came along and supported this event. It was a huge night and everyone enjoyed themselves from all the feedback I am getting which is great news.

We are now in the planning stages for the 2017 Ball so watch this space!

With Christmas fast approaching so to is our traditional Christmas edition of the Fresh State of Affairs. This year we will once again be providing the market community the opportunity to place a Christmas Message in the edition and there is more information on page 10 in relation to this. I am looking forward to seeing as many businesses as possible represented in the magazine.

Once again in this issue we direct our focus on concerns within the market environment that are not making it easy (or in some cases viable) for businesses to trade. To be fined up to $8,000 for accidently hitting a rapid door is ridiculous with charges determined at the whim of the MMA. I encourage all Fresh State members to attend our next member’s meeting which is the AGM scheduled for Tuesday 18 October where these concerns will be raised in more depth.

We also have a look at the Perth market which is now privately owned making the Melbourne Market the last remaining government owned central market in Australia. It is always good to see how other markets operate and how we can do things differently so this is an interesting snapshot.

Remember to utilise our special deal with Bayford Volkswagen Epping across the road where you can get a heavily reduced discount on new vehicles whether you are after a personal vehicle or are considering a fleet upgrade for your business. Just let the boys know you are from the market and you will be looked after!

TO BE FINED UP TO $8,000 FOR ACCIDENTLY HITTING A RAPID DOOR IS RIDICULOUS WITH CHARGES DETERMINED AT THE WHIM OF THE MMA. Enjoy this Gala Ball edition with an extended photo gallery and hopefully you or someone you know has been caught on camera.

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. © 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 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

FINES, FINES

AND MORE

FINES In the last edition of the FSA Magazine we looked at the excessive costs of running a business from increased rent, additional outgoings/costs and the rort on electricity pricing … however further investigation has uncovered even more charges being slammed on market users by the Melbourne Market Authority through infringement notices …

Within the first year of operation, the amount of fines being handed out to tenants and users of the market is not only out of control but also inconsistent and unjustifiable.

The MMA Operating Rules do not disclose the amount to be charged and leaves the infringement open to the discretion of the MMA, resulting in fines ranging from $50 to $8,000 being issued across the market.

The most disappointing aspect of the way fines are (a) handed out; and (b) enforced; is the total lack of respect for the tenants within the facility. In a stroke of irony it is like we are all are treated like prisoners once we swipe our cards to get into the market (that is of course if your swipe card works!).

BUT DOWN AT A GRASSROOTS LEVEL, THE PLAYERS ARE NOT HAPPY. As a guest entering the market you are wowed by the grandiose expanse of the facility, its entrance, ample parking spaces (that are all but vacant by 8 am), whiz bang doors that open as you approach, and the clean shiny modern look that is the new market. So wowed are guests and management at their ‘operation’ that they have applied for (and won) some awards which are splashed around the media.

But down at a grassroots level, the players are not happy. The carparks are not allowed to be used unless you have reserved (and paid for) that space.

Empty car spaces litter the grounds and if anyone else dares park close to their store or a customer utilises an empty space – you are fined.

If you touch a door – you are fined.

If you go above a speed limit that cannot be determined – you are fined.

If the MMA were as quick to respond to tenant' s appeals, as they are to issue them with a fine, we would be in a different situation.

Reports from the market community about fines, ranging from hitting the rapid lift doors to hitting a concrete curb, make you wonder if we really are working in a wholesale market or in a detention centre. One false move and watch out!

5

THE RAPID LIFT DOOR What a fancy door this is. Set on a sensor system, it opens as you approach and closes behind you. During peak trading times this fancy door is getting a work out with multiple forks and buggy’s passing through which makes it easier for traffic flow and an overall great initiative and addition to the new market. However on occasions the doors are hit, which is an occupational hazard; part of the workplace in which we all operate and should be part of a risk mitigation from the MMA.

INFRINGEMENT NOTICES RANGING FROM $500 TO $8,000 FOR HITTING ONE OF THESE DOORS CONTINUE TO BE ISSUED TO TENANTS - REGARDLESS OF WHO HIT THE DOOR, WHY THE DOOR WAS HIT OR IF IT WAS YOUR FAULT OR NOT.

Instead, infringement notices ranging from $500 to $8,000 for hitting one of these doors continue to be issued to tenants – regardless of who hit the door, why the door was hit or if it was your fault or not.

A fine will be sent your way without any explanation and from reports on the market floor, no follow up is being made by the MMA even after numerous attempts to make contact.

Yes there is a dispute system in place and it looks great on paper and no doubt ticks some boxes – if anyone ever returns your calls! It is like working in a vortex where there is no way out –just a continual loop like a song on replay.

6

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

FINES, FINES

AND MORE

FINES PALLETS IRONICALLY THIS MARKET IS SO STATE OF THE ART AND SO FANCY THAT IT ACTUALLY DOESN’T WORK – OR RATHER IT PROHIBITS THOSE IN THE SPACE TO WORK EFFICIENTLY AND PROACTIVELY.

Pallets left at the back of stores, carparks or warehousing attract a fine. But who left the pallet?

That is the big question which is leaving many market users disgruntled. Nothing worse than receiving a fine for something you did not do!

Since being at Epping one particular trader has had multiple fines, all for the same thing – leaving pallets in the car park.

Each fine was appealed following the MMA guidelines and each time the MMA never responded.

In the appeal notification, the trader explained (each time) they did not know what they had done wrong, as produce was delivered to customers in the car park while the trader was still trading from 7.30am to 9.15am.

After trade, the forklift driver would collect the pallets. To date the trader has not heard back from the MMA but the fines keep rolling in …

There appears to be many more security guards at the market issuing fines than there are staff to communicate and resolve issues with tenants! With costs skyrocketing the last thing tenants need are to be treated like delinquents in their own workplace.

A State of the Art facility is a good thing. The Melbourne Market facility is supposed to be a benchmark for new markets around the world. But ironically this market is so State of the Art and so fancy that it actually doesn’t work – or rather it prohibits those in the space to work efficiently and proactively.

To drive into your workplace and be denied access once is annoying. To be continually denied access on multiple occasions is beyond annoying.

To be fined exorbitant fees when it is not your fault or beyond reasonable and with no follow up, is the icing on the cake.

7

INTERESTINGLY EACH TENANT CONTACTED HAD A DIFFERENT INFRINGEMENT AMOUNT OWING (FOR THE SAME INFRINGEMENT) AND MOST TENANTS HAD TRIED TO CONTACT THE MMA AND WERE STILL WAITING ON A RESPONSE, IN SOME CASES MONTHS LATER.

THE COST OF DOING BUSINESS It is the cost of these fines which also don’t make sense. The MMA Operating Rules are clear on what the breach is but not clear on how the cost of the fine is calculated and is either: • Depending on circumstances; or • At the (MMA’s) discretion.

In a quick vox pop on the market floor the most common fines in the market are as follows: 1. Hit a door:

$500 - $8000

2. Pallets left:

$50 - $100

3. Hit a gutter:

$450 - $600

Interestingly, each tenant contacted had a different infringement amount owing (for the same infringement) and most tenants had tried to contact the MMA and were still waiting on a response, in some cases months later.

The market may look all new and glossy from the outside, but delve deeper and the holes are there and are having a cumulative effect on the cost of doing business at a tenant level.

The MMA need to get their heads out of the sand and wake up to what is really happening on the market floor: • Communicate and respect the market tenants by at least returning their calls and listening to their concerns • Change operational processes that are not working for tenants and mitigate the risk instead of passing the cost onto tenants • Make the market community a functional and viable place to work for the tenants who are, at the end of the day, the core business of the market.

8

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

HORT CODE

COMPLIANCE

A TIMELY REMINDER

In June 2016, the fruit and vegetable wholesalers from across the nation, under the banner of its peak body Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) saw a glimmer of hope.

Federal Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce announced that the controversial and anti-competitive Horticulture Code of Conduct that has suppressed the fresh produce wholesale trade since 2007 had ‘not lived up to expectations’.

With the code due to expire on 1 April 2017, the Federal Government launched an independent review, with the final report released on 8 February 2016 which made 13 recommendations.

The Federal Government are currently considering these recommendations ahead of making any decisions about the future of the Horticulture Code.

“Fresh State is working with all our interstate counterparts under FMA to argue for a fair, commercial and workable outcome,” says Fresh State President and FMA Chairman Shane Schnitzler.

There will be ongoing requirements imposed on wholesalers such as the use of documented terms of trade and access to a dispute resolution mechanism which FMA acknowledge and support. ”We are arguing strongly against the introduction of monetary penalties for breaches of the Code, and increasing levels of random audits by the ACCC,” continues Shane.

In recent months the industry have been reminded of certain practices which are threatening the ability to argue for the fair treatment of wholesalers, as these matters are being tabled with the ACCC and the Government as examples of wholesalers not treating growers fairly.

This includes wholesalers not advising the return price to be paid to growers promptly and routinely paying late.

All wholesalers are reminded that they must have in place: • Documented Terms of Trade (Horticulture Produce Agreements or a pre-Code Agreement).

(FRESH STATE) ARE ARGUING STRONGLY AGAINST THE INTRODUCTION OF MONETARY PENALTIES FOR BREACHES OF THE CODE, AND INCREASING LEVELS OF RANDOM AUDITS

BY THE ACCC.

9

ALL WHOLESALERS ARE REMINDED THAT THEY MUST HAVE IN PLACE:

• Agreed payment terms – should be included in terms of trade (eg. 21 or 28 days).

> DOCUMENTED TERMS OF TRADE

• Arrangements which ensure the confirmation of the return price to be paid to the grower – must be done promptly.

> AGREED PAYMENT TERMS > CONFIRMATION OF THE RETURN PRICE TO BE PAID TO THE GROWER > ARRANGEMENTS WHICH ENSURE GROWERS ARE PAID ON TIME

• Arrangements which ensure growers are paid on time – payments must be within agreed payment terms.

There is a risk of increasing levels of regulation of the wholesaling sector.

What the Federal Government does in finalising the review of the Code will be influenced by the degree to which the Market wholesaling sector can demonstrate that they are serious about addressing the ongoing concerns which are being raised by growers, grower representative organisations, politicians and the ACCC. “Our position is that the vast majority of all wholesalers across Australia do comply with these base level commercial requirements and promptly advise growers of what they are going to pay them for produce made available for sale and pay them on time. In view of the urgency of this issue, we remind all wholesalers of the need to ensure that this is the case.”

10

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

ecember Wednesday 7 D AFFAIRS FRESH STATE OF ON PUBLISHED CHRISTMAS EDITI tmas messages Book in your Chris and spread some with the FSL team 23 November.

Christmas cheer by Who this is for: rket community.

All the Melbourne Ma

Wednesday 12 October FRESH PRODUCE TESTING FOR FOOD SAFETY Where: MMA Conference Centre Time: 10am to 2.30pm Register: freshproducesafety_anz. com/category/events Who this event is for: QA managers in fresh produce businesses, testing service providers, auditors/Certification Bodies, product technologists, trainers/consultants, food regulation managers, food safety system owner representatives, students/academics, etc.

Tuesday 1 8 October 20

16 FSL ANN UAL GENER AL MEETING

Where: C as

a D’Abruzzo Club, 55 O’Herns Road, Eppin g Time: from 8.

30am Who this ev ent is for: Fresh State full and asso ciate members.Fo r further info rmation go to page 11 .

Melbourne Market Golf and Bowls Day When: Friday 24 March 2017 Where: Heidelberg Golf Club Time: 11am until late Updates and registration details at: http://www.freshstate.com. au/2017-melbourne-marketgolf-bowls-day/

Christmas Special Edition Spread some festive cheer to the market community and place a Christmas message in our bumper Christmas edition ¼ page – $395 ½ page – $595 Full page – $1100 Prices are exclusive of GST

Payments can be made through the MMCS. To book your Christmas Message contact Sally or Kim at the Fresh State Office on 03 9408 6627 or send an email to info@freshstate.com.au Christmas edition due out on 7 December 2016

AGM This year Fresh State turns 110 years old.

A big milestone for the humble Victorian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetables which is now an even stronger and more professional organisation than ever before.

The Fresh State Board have been instrumental in this growth as they continue to work on behalf of wholesalers and associate members of the market community. The upcoming Annual General Meeting is an opportunity for all members to gain a better understanding of what happens behind the scenes.

Fresh State’s 41st Annual General Meeting will take place on Tuesday 18 October and this year will move to local venue Casa D’Abruzzo Club on O’Herns Road in Epping.

“We felt it was important for members to attend off site from the market for our AGM this year and mix it up a bit” said Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler. “There will be a full seated breakfast for all our members and it is nice and close to the market for everyone’s convenience”.

Shane says that he is hoping for another big turnout in keeping with recent tradition. “The last few member meetings have been really well attended which is great as we have a lot to discuss as a united voice” he said. “This is really an opportunity not to be missed”.

The AGM provides an overview of the FSL business, its current projects, outcomes of events as well as goals and aspirations for the future. “All members should be extremely proud of where Fresh State is positioned and they will get a much better understanding of this on Tuesday 18 October”.

THE FRESH STATE OFFICE LOCATED AT STORE 36 IN THE HEART OF THE MARKET HAS RECENTLY ADDED SOME HISTORY TO ITS WALLS WITH THE ADDITIONAL OF A MEMORIAL TO PAY TRIBUTE TO FOOTSCRAY ROAD. AN OPEN INVITATION IS EXTENDED TO BOTH FRESH STATE MEMBERS AND THE MARKET COMMUNITY TO DROP INTO THE OFFICE AND CHECK IT OUT AND REMINISCE ABOUT THE OLDEN DAYS …

FRESH STATE AGM 2016 On:

Tuesday 18 October 8.30am - 11.00am

At: Casa D’Abruzzo Club 55 O’Herns Road, Epping (just 10 minutes up the road off High Street) RSVP: 14 October 2016 to Sally at Fresh State: sallyp@freshstate.com.au or phone 03 9408 6627

12

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

6

1 0 2

The Fresh State Gala Ball lived up to all the expectation and hype on the first Saturday of September this year.

The Melbourne Market community were out in full force ready to have fun and party the night away at the Fresh State Gala Ball. A record crowd and a spectacular venue set the scene with the Peninsula at the Docklands Central Pier dressed to impress with a Spring theme.

to Chris Mertikas from Louis Melbourne and the popular Young Marketeer of the Year won by Jason Cugnetto also from Louis Melbourne.

The infamous This is your Life presentation was awarded to Tony Siciliano from VFS Produce (see page 18 for more details).

Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler was thrilled with the outcome which THIS EVENT GROWS EVERY YEAR AND coincided with NOW WITH A BIGGER VENUE WE CAN not only the one year anniversary CATER FOR THE DEMAND AS WELL of the new market opening in Epping, AS CONTINUE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE but also the one SUCCESSES OF WHOLESALERS AND hundred and tenth year that Fresh THE ENTIRE MARKET COMMUNITY. State has been in operation.

Another highlight of the night was “This event grows every year and now the launch of the Fresh State "About with a bigger venue we can cater Us" video which sums up Fresh State’s for the demand as well as continue impact on the industry and can be to acknowledge the successes of viewed on the Fresh State website. wholesalers and the entire market Planning is already underway for the community,” said Shane.

Fresh State Gala Ball in 2017 which will A number of wholesalers were be held at the Peninsula once again, acknowledged on the night including with a date to be announced soon. the Fresh State Business of the Year For sponsorship opportunities please awarded to Prestige Produce, Fresh contact the Fresh State office.

State Personality of the Year awarded

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

Proud sponsor of the Fresh State Gala Ball 2016.

PHONE: 03 9408 6627 | EMAIL: ADMIN@MELBMCS.COM.AU

THE BEST WAY OF DOING BUSINESS

13

2016 WHOLESALER OF THE YEAR PRESTIGE PRODUCE Scott Bocksette from Toyota Material Handling, Mark Brancatisano, Dom Brancatisano and Vince Brancatisano from Prestige Produce with FSL President Shane Schnitzler.

2016 PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR CHRIS MERTIKAS Chris Mertikas from Louis Melbourne was awarded Wholesale Personality in 2016 thanking his family for their support over the years as well as his business partner, Con. Chris also features in Q&A on page 23.

2016 YOUNG MARKETEER OF THE YEAR – JASON CUGNETTO Jason Cugnetto from Louis Melbourne couldn’t believe his luck when he was announced Young Marketeer of the Year.

Not only is this award a huge honour but Jason also walked away with a trip to visit New Orleans in the USA in 2017 to attend the Fresh Summit industry conference.

14

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

20

016

15

16

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

20

016

17

18

OF AFFAIRS

e f i l r u o y s i This

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

Tony Siciliano Every year Fresh State recognises a long serving dedicated Fresh State member who has lasted the test of time in the industry.

This year the surprised recipient was Tony Siciliano from VFS Produce.

Tony started his fresh produce ‘career’ as a grower on the family farm. He was the eldest son of five older sisters and two younger brothers. Born into a traditional Italian family, Tony was not satisfied with the status quo of farm life and always dreamed of growing the familly business bigger.

At 16 years of age, Tony decided he would go to the Melbourne Market at West Melbourne to sell the family produce and hasn’t looked back since.

At first he hitched rides with friends and family to the market, then got his licence and drove up and down the highway from the farm in his ute before upgrading to a truck. The long hours paid off and today

Tony heads up the marketing division at VFS Produce, with his brother Bruno running the farming aspect and brother Fred running the pack house.

The family farm in Swan Hill is now more than ten times larger than when his father Vittorio Siliciliano purchased the first holding 67 years ago and VFS Produce is a familiar brand both at the Melbourne Market and at a consumer level.

A Woolworths campaign which featured Tony saw him star in a television commercial as well as in store point of sale material.

Tony was honoured in front of a record crowd at the 2016 Fresh State Gala Ball including his family and friends.

19

2016

Tony accepting the This is your Life accolade with wife Gina by his side.

TONY WAS HONOURED IN FRONT OF A RECORD CROWD AT THE 2016 FRESH STATE GALA BALL INCLUDING HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

It was a family affair with Cassie, Victor, Tony, Gina and Catherine all enjoying the night.

SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY PALLET

TM

• New and used forklift sales • Short and long term forklift rentals • All forklift service and parts

1800 425 438 www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

Proud sponsors of the Fresh State Gala Ball

20

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

THE HEALING POWERS OF TURMERIC OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

Turmeric has been consumed in India as early as 4,000 years ago, where it was used as a culinary spice and is considered auspicious and sacred in Hindu religion.

India produces the majority of the world’s crops and consumes 80% of it, although as time goes on the rest of the world is increasingly realising the vast benefits of this versatile spice.

The use of turmeric for medicinal purposes has been common practice in many countries for

And with the turmeric trend increasing more crops are being planted to keep up. “There was a shortage from growers around six months ago when demand increased,” continues Charles. “Now there is more available because growers have increased production to keep up”.

There are two varieties of turmeric, although many people are only familiar with the Yellow/Orange variety. Rosengal Wholesale have just started stocking a small

IF YOU’RE A SMOOTHIE DRINKER, TURMERIC PAIRS WELL WITH ORANGE AND RED SUPERFOODS LIKE CARROT, RASPBERRIES, GOJI BERRIES, PUMPKIN AND CITRUS. thousands of years. Many South Asian countries use it as an antibacterial and as an antiseptic for cuts and burns. In India and Pakistan it has been used for conditions such as dissolving gallstones, relieving gas, improving digestion and as an antiinflammatory to aid with arthritis as well as being used regularly in Chinese medicine.

Charles Chan from wholesale business Opal Jade says that customers were traditionally buying turmeric for use in curries for good food colour, but are now realising the health benefits as well. “It’s become very popular for health issues in the last 1218 months, like lowering blood pressure”.

amount of the less common white turmeric after a grower asked them to test the waters. White turmeric is native to India and Indonesia where white turmeric powder is often added to curry dishes. In Thailand fresh, sliced white turmeric is used in salads.

It has a paler coloured flesh and tastes similar to ginger with a bitter aftertaste as well as many of the health benefits of its more popular counterpart.

One of the best features about turmeric is that you can reap the benefits simply by enjoying a delicious meal. First to mind is the many aromatic Indian curries and Dahl, however that is just the beginning! If Indian food is not really your thing, don’t worry -

turmeric can be used to spice up almost any savoury dish you can think of… Why not add a little to your next omelette, use it as a dry rub for meat, toss it through your roast vegetables and potatoes or add it to your favourite soup.

If you’re a smoothie drinker, turmeric pairs well with orange and red superfoods like carrot, raspberries, goji berries, pumpkin and citrus. Or maybe you would prefer a nice hot beverage after dinner, in that case you should try boiling four cups of hot water, add one teaspoon of ground turmeric and simmer for ten minutes. Strain through a fine sieve and add some honey or lemon to taste.

You can also add it finely grated or powered to your hot tea or coffee – but remember, fresh is best!

Try a turmeric face mask at home.

All you need is one teaspoon of turmeric, one teaspoon of honey and one teaspoon of milk (be sure to use your old washcloth when rinsing as it’s a dye and will stain!).

Apply it to your skin and leave it on for around 20 minutes then wash off with cool water. Don’t forget to use it under your eyes, it will help reduce the dark circles after a long night at the market. It will brighten your skin and make it look fresh and clean.

The benefits of turmeric are hard to deny, but if you’re too busy running a business or working at the market for any of the above suggestions don’t forget there is also the option of a turmeric supplement available at your local chemist. By incorporating this into your day you might find some relief from sore and tired joints.

21

THE HEALING POWERS OF TURMERIC: 01. A natural liver detoxifier 02. A potent natural anti-inflammatory 03. May aid in fat metabolism and weight management

EVERYONE WANTS CLEAR, GLOWING SKIN AND THIS IS YET ANOTHER AREA THIS GIFTED FOOD CAN HELP. TURMERIC FACE MASKS ARE COMMONLY USED TO REJUVENATE SKIN, SOFTEN LINES AND WRINKLES AND ALSO ACTS AS A MOISTURISER, EXFOLIATOR AND REDUCES REDNESS.

04. Speeds up wound healing and assists in remodelling of damaged skin 05. May help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions 06. Studies show that turmeric may prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease 07. When combined with cauliflower, turmeric has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer 08. Can boost your memory 09. A natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns 10. A natural painkiller

Charles Chan from wholesale business Opal Jade, has been selling turmeric for many years.

22

SALLY'S RECIPE

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

Baked Chicken Paella Turmeric is not just for curries, try this quick, easy and delicious meal at home to fill you up on these balmy Spring evenings – and it can all be done in one pot!

INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

> 500gm chicken thighs roughly sliced

1. On stovetop, sauté chicken, onion, salami, capsicum and onion for three minutes with olive oil

6. Bake for further 10-15 minutes or until rice is tender and all liquid absorbed.

2. Stir in spices – turmeric, cayenne pepper and optional chilli – and cook for one minute

7. Enjoy with a fresh green salad

> ½ cup salami > 1 red capsicum sliced > 1 red onion sliced > 2 cloves garlic crushed > 1 tsp turmeric > ½ tsp cayenne pepper > 1 dried or fresh chilli – if you like it extra hot > 1 ½ cups short grain rice > 5 medium tomatoes diced > 1 cup boiling water > 3 cups chicken stock > 1 cup peas/corn/broad beans – or a mix

3. Add rice, tomatoes, boiling water and two cups of stock and mix well 4. Bake in moderate oven for ten minutes (no lid) 5. Stir in peas, corn or broadbeans (or a mix of each) and remaining one cup of stock

Serves 4 – 6

23

Q&A:

CHRIS MERTIKAS THE MERTIKAS FAMILY ARE STILL DEVELOPING THEIR APPLE ORCHARD AND CHRIS STILL HAS PASSION FOR SELLING QUALITY FRUIT.

WORKS: As a Director of wholesale business Louis Melbourne.

SUBURB WHERE I LIVE: Woodend.

MOST OF MY DAY IS SPENT: At work selling fruit.

THE FOOTBALL TEAM I BARRACK FOR IS: Richmond Tigers.

MY FAVOURITE MELBOURNE MARKET MOMENT IS: When we bought the first store to become a wholesale agent.

Growing up on the apple orchard his family purchased the year before his birth, it is no surprise that Chris has ended up the Director of a successful wholesale business selling citrus, grapes and apples.

Chris and his partner Con Karanicolos began Louis Melbourne 31 years ago at the Footscray market and they are still at the market today. Although much has changed in that time, notably the new facility, the Mertikas family are still developing their apple orchard and Chris still has passion for selling quality fruit.

There are very few people at the market who don’t know about Chris’ other passion – the Richmond Football Club, but what some of you don’t know is that he played in an AFL charity match on the MCG a few years ago.

AS I HAVE GROWN OLDER I HAVE LEARNT: The value of loyalty in customers and growers.

THE QUALITIES I MOST ENJOY ABOUT MELBOURNE MARKET ARE: That it is a state of the art new facility.

THE PETS I HAVE ARE: 2 Pugs called Wilbur and Milly.

THE ASPECT OF MY JOB I LIKE THE MOST IS: Being around people, having a laugh and the banter. Seeing the same faces every day.

THE THING I DISLIKE THE MOST IS: The hours and poor credit.

WHEN I WAS A CHILD I WANTED TO BE: A drummer in a rock 'n' roll band.

THE PLACE IN THE WORLD I WOULD MOST LIKE TO GO IS: Somewhere warm where I can chill out and drink.

MY FAVOURITE FRUIT IS: Apples.

After six months of training to get match fit, Chris says the ground feels as big as it looks! Although he is skilled in training for AFL matches, his next career may not be in dog training

to Greece for three weeks, where his parents were born, and enjoyed catching up with family.

His fondest memories are those he shares with his three children Daniel (21), Harriet (19) and Charlotte (17).

Recently he took his two daughters

There is no doubt people like Chris are what make this such a great place to work.

Chris’ sense of humour and charisma are just part of what makes him so loved around the CHRIS’ SENSE OF HUMOUR AND CHARISMA Market. These ARE JUST PART OF WHAT MAKES HIM SO traits were recognised LOVED AROUND THE MARKET. at the Fresh State Gala Ball where he was awarded Mr Personality, after admitting he can only get his a recognition for inspiring others wife’s pug Wilbur to walk if he throws over the past year. It was an accolade biscuits out in front of him. he brushed off as a laugh, but later Chris lives on a property in Woodend admitting it was a great feeling to be and enjoys gardening and renovating recognised by your peers who you with his wife Kerry in his spare time. spend so much of your time with.

24

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

PERTH MARKET OF AFFAIRS

A PRIVATISATION MODEL WITH POTENTIAL OF AFFAIRS

The Melbourne Market is officially the last government owned central market in Australia with the Perth Market becoming privatised in April of this year.

In a trend that has seen State governments making common sense decisions and selling off assets that should be owned by private enterprise, it is no surprise that the Perth market was sold to stakeholders of the market.

The Perth Chamber of Fruit & Vegetable Industries (now known as Market West) led a Perth Market Limited (PML) consortium that ultimately won the bid.

“In 2014 the State Government began the process of an Asset Sale Program and Market City was the first asset identified to be sold,” said Market West CEO Rod McPherson. “It was clear that the fresh produce industry needed to make the best efforts to ensure that it was protected before, during and after the sale. Market West believed that the best way to protect our members and the wider industry was to form an industry consortium with the objective of purchasing Market City.”

OVER $638M WORTH OF FRESH PRODUCE IS TRADED ANNUALLY AT THE PERTH MARKET.

WITH A SECURE INCOME STREAM, TENANTS ARE NOT CONSTRICTED BY OVERLY EXPENSIVE RENTS AND OUTGOINGS AND THERE IS A FEELING OF VIABILITY IN THE MARKET. “Using the experience of other privatised market owners in Brisbane and Adelaide, who were also cornerstone investors, industry got behind the bid and we achieved the required level of private equity.”

In December 2015, the industry consortium bid was ultimately recognised as the preferred option by the State – and Perth Markets Limited was born. This allowed the Chamber/Market West, on behalf of its members, to become an equity investor in Market City together with the Brisbane and Adelaide Markets and additional investors, resulting in a market owned and operated by the industry.

As a central market, it has the same function and services as the Melbourne Market but when you scratch the surface, the Perth Market is a treasure chest of income earning potential. Over $638M worth of fresh produce is traded annually at the Perth Market which is situated in Canning Vale 16 kilometres south of Perth. It is a smaller market than Melbourne with a smaller wholesaler base which is to be expected given the comparative size of the two States.

25

Top: The Market City site.

Above: Fresh State Board Member Brett Collins, Elvis from Perfection Fresh and Market West CEO Rod McPherson at the Perth Market.

The fresh produce on the market floor has a strong Asian influence due to Perth’s location. These yellow crates are a unique feature of the market for transport and display of produce and there is a crate exchange on site.

As well as warehousing, undercover parking and market stores, the site includes a retail shopping precinct, Shell service station, Tavern, a market training centre as well as twelve hectares of undeveloped land. The site also has a meat processing facility and weekly seafood auction mainly for retail and food service sectors.

The site capitalises on a ‘multi use model’ and is operational seven days a week including: • Wholesale market open Monday to Friday from 6am • Wholesale clearance market open to the public on a Saturday • Community market open to the public every Sunday attracting over 300 stalls Overarching these income earning businesses sit the Market City brand which encapsulates all the business entities.

THE PERTH MARKET IS A TREASURE CHEST OF INCOME EARNING POTENTIAL.

With a secure income stream, tenants are not constricted by overly expensive rents and outgoings and there is a feeling of viability in the market that is only expected to increase as the Market City brand grows under strong and secure ownership.

The Perth State government made a strategic and sound move selling the market asset back to private enterprise where it belongs. Only time will tell if and when the Melbourne Market will follow suit, but for now Melbourne is lagging well behind the rest of the States who are thriving from having their own central market facility owned by industry for the industry.

26

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

04

TOP

WITH THE AFL SEASON COMING TO A CLOSE, HERE IS A RECAP OF SOME FOOTY FACTS:

01

The longest VFL/AFL suspension in history was for 99 weeks in 1910. It is held by both Doug Fraser and Alex Laing, who were found guilty of bribery.

05

02 Collingwood hasn’t won a game on the last Saturday in September since 1958. They have won two premierships in that time, however in both those instances the grand final was held in early October.

03

In the 1982 Grand Final, 17-year old American born stripper, Helen D’Amico streaked the ground clad only in a Carlton scarf. Helen was fined $1,000 after running to the centre of the ground in front of 107,537 football fans and harassing Carlton defender Bruce Doull. It may have been money well spent with Richmond great Kevin Bartlett cheekily blaming the streak for Carlton overcoming the Tigers by three goals when the final siren sounded.

Hawthorn were originally called the Mayblooms! After a suggestion by his daughter, then Coach Ron Cazaly nicknamed the club the “Hawks” because he thought it sounded tougher.

06

In 1916, Fitzroy managed to take out the wooden spoon and the premiership!

Only four teams participated in the war-time season which saw Fitzroy lose the last 9 of 12 games. Although they finished on the bottom of the ladder they then managed to win the three finals making them the premiers.

A pig was released onto the field by a Swans fan in a 1993 clash between the Swans and St Kilda in an effort to put off St Kilda’s champion goal kicker Tony Lockett. The pig, which had Lockett’s No. 4 and his incorrectly spelled nickname “Plugga” written on it, stopped play for three minutes before Swans player Darren Holmes managed to catch the pig with a tackle.

07

27

Controversy clouded the final seconds of the 2006 Round 5 clash between St Kilda and Fremantle when the final siren sounded but wasn’t heard by the umpires who allowed play to continue. A free kick was awarded to St Kilda’s Steven Baker, who were down by one

point, before the siren was sounded again and this time heard. Baker kicked a point and the game was drawn. Fremantle lodged an official protest and three days later Baker’s point was removed confirming Fremantle as the onepoint winners.

08 History was made in June this year with the AFL Chairman announcing the eight clubs that have been granted a license to compete in the Inaugural season of the women’s league in 2017.

The Adelaide Crows, Brisbane Lions, Carlton, Collingwood, Fremantle Dockers, The GWS Giants, Melbourne and The Western Bulldogs will all have teams competing in the national women’s league commencing next year.

09

The VFL/AFL record for consecutive games played is 244 and is held by the late, great Irishman Jim Stynes.

10 On September 1, 1990 all four Daniher brothers played a game for Essendon against St Kilda.

It was the only time Anthony, Terry, Neale and Chris all played together.

If you already knew these interesting AFL facts and consider yourself a bit of an expert on footy trivia, then log on to the Fresh State website and take the Fresh State Footy Quiz. If you win you will be crowned the Fresh State King of Footy! www.freshstate.com.au/footyquiz

28

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

01

02

03

04

ARK OF TASTE CAPTURES ENDANGERED PRODUCE In 1986 in Italy, a demonstration was held to protest the opening of a new fast food restaurant at the Spanish steps in Rome, which unwittingly started the ‘Slow Food Movement’.

With a rich history over the past three decades, the global movement has reached over 160 countries, with millions of people involved in various projects. The global Slow Food Movement’s main focus is to encourage people around the world to eat fresh local produce which has been prepared in the traditional way. They also educate people about the benefits of buying produce from local markets and greengrocers as opposed to fast food.

10

A unique and popular initiative by the organisation has been the creation of an international catalogue called the Ark of Taste which archives endangered and heritage foods around the world based on a strict criteria. To meet the criteria the unique foods listed have to be sustainably produced and originate from a diverse geographical region.

By being included in the Ark of Taste, attention is drawn to the risk of extinction within a few generations if we are not actively taking steps to ensure these foods are being preserved. There are currently approximately 3,510 products

catalogued with anyone from around the world invited to nominate any products they think should be included.

With Australia being a wonderful melting pot of so many different cultures and traditions, the Australian Slow Food Movement is conscious that our own indigenous foods and traditions don’t fall by the wayside. The Australian version of the Ark of Taste currently includes 33 products with a further 22 Australian foods currently nominated and waiting for approval.

“They include small scale productions that are part of the culture, history and traditions of our indigenous and post colonization heritage such as fruits, vegetables, breads, animal breeds, fish and preserves,” says Vincenzo Velletri from the Ark of Taste Australian Working Group. These include the Desert Quandong, Central Australia wild plum, finger lime, perry pear, the Queensland-native bunya nut, Victoria’s bull-boar sausage and the Swan Valley sun-dried Muscat grape.

29

Vincenzo says many of these rare Australian foods are getting rediscovered and used by consumers and chefs around the world.

to the island and the isolation from the Australian mainland has helped maintain a genetically pure population.

If you are selling some unique and rare local produce, maybe you too can get involved in the slow food movement and help promote this important message …

Central Australian Wild Plum The wild plum is a shrub around 3m high with drooping, bluishgreen leaves. The white flowers produce an olive-like fruit that matures from green to purple to black. It is found in Central Australia, but uncommon in areas subject to grazing by cattle, camels and rabbits.

THE AUSTRALIAN ARK Finger Lime Growing in Australia for millions of years, the Finger Lime is slightly

05

THE GLOBAL SLOW FOOD MOVEMENT’S MAIN FOCUS IS TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD TO EAT FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE WHICH HAS BEEN PREPARED IN THE TRADITIONAL WAY.

09

sweeter than a lemon, without the sharp acidity. They are native to a limited region of the northeast coast of New South Wales and southeast Queensland.

Desert Quandong Although sometimes a little tart, the fleshy fruit has a pleasant taste when ripe, similar to a cross between peaches, apricots and rhubarb. Native to arid and semiarid Australia, it grows in small groups and is also known as a native peach.

Honey, Kangaroo Island Ligurian Bee Originally imported in 1880’s, this honey is only produced on Kangaroo Island by Ligurian Bees and is now the oldest bee sanctuary in the world. Since the arrival of the Ligurian Bee, no other bee or honey has been introduced

06

08

Rosella Jam Rosella is a species of hibiscus native to northern Queensland.

Traditionally Rosellas were made into jam and spread on toasted bread and cold meats and there are early colonial Australian recipes using rosella jam in cakes and puddings.

Perry Pears The varieties of Perry Pears are Gin, Green Horse, Moorcroft, Red Longdon and Yellow Huffcap.

These pears are inedible, but when pressed, the juice is used to create an alcoholic beverage which can be either sparkling or still. These pears were introduced to Harcourt near Bendigo during the Gold Rush period of the 1850s.

07 01 BUNYA NUT 02 ROSELLA JAM 03 FINGER LIME 04 SUN-DRIED MUSCAT GRAPE 05 BULL BOAR SAUSAGE 06 WILD PLUMS 07 MATT FLEISCHMANN FROM FLOWERDALE WITH OUR NATIVE FINGERLIMES 08 DESERT QUANDONG 09 KANGAROO ISLAND LIGURIAN BEE 10 PERRY PEARS

30

OF AFFAIRS

issue 34 sep 2016

OF AFFAIRS

OF AFFAIRS

SIMON GEORGE & SONS Simon George & Sons (SGS) has a rich, proud history that spans four generations and has resulted in a successful business with branches in six locations across Australia.

In 1945, Peter’s three sons, Peter (Jnr), Simon and Joe purchased the fruit shop from their father and “George Brothers” was formed. Although they sold the business back to their father a few years later, the George Brothers partnership was strong and in a short time they had expanded significantly with fourteen new retail stores and also began wholesaling to hotels, restaurants and the shipping industry.

Simon’s motto has always been to ‘do what’s best for the business,’ which he has instilled in his family. Simon and Damian have led by example and now the next generation are living by that ethos as well.

Another factor Simon attributes to the success of the business is finding Their story began in 1927 when Peter the right people and keeping them.

“George” Jitani travelled to Australia by The interview process to work at SGS boat with his pregnant wife Waded and may be more lengthy their two children. An than most, however their opportunity for work FRUIT AND VEGETABLES FROM SGS MAKE employee retention is arose when Peter was above average, proving ITS WAY ALL ACROSS AUSTRALIA AS THEY given a basket of fruit that taking the time to to sell door to door and WHOLESALE TO THE HOSPITALITY AND find the right person pays he began working for off in the end. “We hope TOURISM INDUSTRIES, PROVIDORES, Baker Scott Fruit Shop that everyone working in Casino, NSW. By 1933, DETENTION CENTRES AND JAILS. at Simon George & Sons Peter had dropped his feels a sense of family Lebanese surname and know that we care,” Jitani in favour of his middle name In 1964, George Brothers sold off the explains Simon.

The company’s Key George and opened his first fruit shop majority of their fruit shops and Simon Performance Indicators are not sales in Casino and then a second larger George began Simon George & Sons and profit focused, instead ethos and shop a few years later. at the Rocklea markets with his sons work life balance feature highly with This initiative and momentum is Simon (Jnr) and Damian, the current the belief that a happy team filters something that has continued for the Directors. Simon and Damian took over through to happy clients.

George family, with each generation the reins completely in 1976 and have Fruit and vegetables from SGS make building on the business to reach what continued to grow the business across its way all across Australia as they it has become today. the nation. wholesale to the hospitality and

31

THEIR MOST POPULAR LINES ARE THE STAPLES, LIKE TOMATOES, STRAWBERRIES AND APPLES, HOWEVER THEIR NATIONAL FOOTPRINT PROVIDES THEM WITH THE ADVANTAGE OF EASILY SOURCING SOME OF THE MORE EXOTIC PRODUCE LINES WHEN NEEDED. tourism industries, providores, detention centres and jails.

Although the destinations vary, one thing that stays the same is the quality and taste of the produce.

Their most popular lines are the staples like tomatoes, strawberries and apples, however their national footprint provides them with the advantage of easily sourcing some of the more exotic produce lines when needed.

While looking to the future SGS have taken steps towards a more sustainable business practice and also implemented an online ordering system. Yet another

SGS are a significant user of the Melbourne Market Credit Service (MMCS) and believe their experience coming to the Melbourne Market would have been a different one had they not had access to the MMCS. When asked about his experiences Simon says Melbourne had been a key move for SGS. “Joining the credit service gave us a great start. We consider it to be a big stepping stone for us”.

“I would definitely recommend the credit service to other businesses.

It gives the Agents confidence in serving us and saves paperwork and time. It’s just common sense” he continues. Having a branch in Melbourne has been very positive for SGS by allowing them to offer Melbourne products in the Northern States and vice versa.

“Having access to Melbourne growers and distributers has given us more national credence” says Simon.

milestone for the company, this new technology has proven very popular with clients and allowed SGS to employ more picking and packing staff, while still maintaining their attention to detail and quality customer service.

Simon and his guests attended the Fresh State Gala Ball for the first time this year. “The venue and food were first class, but more importantly the evening was focussed on the agents and celebrating real people,” he said. We look forward to having Simon and the SGS team back next year.

Top left: Some of the SGS team – Jack and Ben George (Simon Junior’s sons), Damian and Simon George Junior (Simon Senior’s sons) with Simon George Senior.

Top right: Simon Senior in his early days.

Below: Jack & Damian at the new Melbourne warehouse.

AMAROK HIGHLINE

$53,990 FROM

DRIVEAWAY ^

PLUS FREE 8-SPEED AUTO

#

YOU JUST KNOW THEY WON’T BE IN THE SHOWROOM FOR LONG. Our top-of-the-line workhorse is now in runout from only $53,990 driveaway^ and with free 8-speed auto# plus $2,000 cashback*, there’s never been a better time to own one. The Amarok Highline is packed full of premium features like Bi-Xenon headlights, rear view camera, stainless steel side steps & sports bar, Sat Nav and 18” alloys. So visit your nearest dealer today, because they won’t be around for long. Hurry, offer ends 31 October.

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 ^Manufacturer’s campaign driveaway price for vehicles sold and delivered by 31/10/2016. ^# *Available only on new and demonstrator MY16 Amarok Highline 4x4 stock vehicles.

Run-out model, limited stocks. Options available for an additional cost. Not available in conjunction with any other offers. Volkswagen Australia reserves the right to change or extend all offers.

VGACV0224