SunRice reopens Coleambally Rice Mill

The reopening of the SunRice Mill at Coleambally is a huge boost for the entire region and especially the industry, according to Nationals’ Member for Riverina Michael McCormack.

 “It is so great to see the mill back up and running and heralds an exciting new era for the community and rice growing in the Riverina,” Mr McCormack said.

 Mr McCormack was on hand to see New South Wales Roads and Port Minister Duncan Gay, officially reopened the facility in Jimmy Cull Road on Friday and welcomed the additional 30 jobs the plant would provide.

 “So many new direct and indirect jobs will be created by the mill reopening which will benefit families and boost the economy of Coleambally and beyond,” Mr McCormack said.

 

 “This also highlights the need for water in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, and brings confidence to the area especially as there is currently no certainty over future water security.”

The importance of water in the area was also emphasised by Minister Gay who described water as the lifeblood of the community.

The majority of the rice which will be processed at the Coleambally Mill will be exported overseas to feed millions of people throughout the world.

“Exporting rice grown in the Riverina showcases the fine produce grown in this area and the importance of ensuring water security and the longevity of food production in the Riverina.

“The mill was originally closed in 2007 as production fell to 19,000 tonnes. This year the harvest was 963,000 tonnes underlining why it was so important to keep SunRice in Australian hands.”

Mr McCormack was pleased to tour the facility and to be shown around by the Site Manager Bass Bhaskaran and was joined by his Nationals’ colleague, the Member for Murrumbidgee, Adrian Piccoli at event.

Mr McCormack reiterated the strong stand he has taken recently in the water debate and believes the reopening of Coleambally Rice Mill once again highlights what can be done when water if available and farmers are given a fair go.

Photo caption 2: SunRice Chief Executive Office, Rob Gordon, NSW Minister for Roads and Port, Duncan Gay, Site Manager, Bass Bhaskaran & Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack tour the Coleambally Rice Mill.

Cristy Houghton