Namoi Unlimited has revealed plans for a new Export Hub to help accelerate trade
opportunities for food and agribusinesses in the Namoi region.
The ambitious project would service businesses across the Gunnedah, Gwydir and
Liverpool Plains Shires, as well as the Walcha and Tamworth Local Government Areas.
Namoi Unlimited has identified 50 potential and existing export businesses to be part of
the Export Hub and recently submitted a grant application to the Australian Government
seeking project funding of $419,780 over three financial years.
Chairperson of Namoi Unlimited and Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Council, Jamie Chaffey
said “funding is being sought to provide a new business development resource for
exporters in the region.
“They will have a very clear focus which will be to help small to medium enterprise to
accelerate opportunities for export.
“We want the Export Hub to work directly will exporters to help them navigate hurdles by
providing access to education, business assistance, branding and marketing.”
The Export Hub will further export opportunities through valued international connections.
Namoi Unlimited has established a government to government relationship with Ningbo, a
major port and industrial hub in east China’s Zhejiang province. Namoi Unlimited is
currently working to develop direct relationships businesses in the region, international
agencies and governments.
Noting the importance of relationships and trade, Councillor Chaffey said “agriculture and
agri-business underpin the economy of the Namoi region, and we are widely regarded as a
highly productive region.
“There is enormous potential to boost exports into the future, by being part of delivering
clean and green produce and commodities to parts of the world.
“Farmers in the Namoi region already produce grain, cotton, beef, lamb, wool, dairy,
forestry and citrus for international markets and the new Export Hub will have a specific
focus on value-add and supply chains for consumer products for specialist flours and
grains, beef and lamb, wool, health foods and livestock feeds.
“If we can support exports we will create more jobs and wealth for our towns and
residents.”