Podcast Champions New Lockyer Valley Food Facility

A new podcast series is throwing its support behind a major local food manufacturing initiative in the Lockyer Valley. The Produce Pod-a 12-episode series-has been developed in partnership by Lockyer Valley Foods, the Lockyer Fruit & Veggie Cooperative, and well-known Queensland radio personality Ben Dobbin. Recorded at the LiSTNR studio in Toowoomba, the first episode is scheduled to air before the end of June 2025.

Colin Dorber, founding director of Lockyer Valley Foods, said the podcast would showcase the region's agricultural excellence.
"We all know the power of podcasting, and we saw this as an ideal platform to tell the story of the beautiful Lockyer Valley and its reputation for growing Australia's most diverse range of vegetables and fruits," he said.

The series also aims to build support for a proposed food processing and cannery facility in Withcott. Special guests on the podcast include Nationals Leader David Littleproud MP, Toowoomba Mayor Geoff McDonald, Farm Angels co-founder Tash Johnston, and Cooperative directors Shirley Evans and Marie King.

Reviving Regional Processing

Since the closure of the last Queensland-based food processing facility in 2011, local growers have lacked access to a nearby production hub. The proposed Withcott site, the result of 14 years of development, hopes to change that by offering sustainable, long-term contracts to farmers in the region.

"Our produce manufacturing facility will be a game changer for the Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba, and the broader region," Dorber said. "We plan to purchase up to 100% of local growers' produce through 5 x 5-year supply contracts. It's a win-win that delivers security to farmers and local manufacturing.

Economic and Community Benefits

The proposed facility would allow produce to be grown, processed, and distributed locally, reducing the need for interstate freight and strengthening the regional supply chain. It's also expected to create significant employment opportunities.

Projected job creation:

• 124 to 150 jobs across Stages 1 and 2
• Up to 500 jobs once Stages 5 and 6 are fully operational

"These contracts and local processing options provide long-term confidence for growers and open up new employment pathways for the community," Dorber said.

He also praised the involvement of Ben Dobbin in amplifying the project's message:
"Having someone like Ben, with his deep roots in agriculture and broadcasting, helps us reach a wider audience and truly bring this story to life."

Looking Ahead

The Produce Pod will spotlight the Lockyer Valley's role in supplying premium fruit and vegetables, featuring insights from leaders across farming, government, and the community. It's part of a broader effort to support sustainable, home-grown food manufacturing in Queensland.

The first episode will be released before the end of June, with ongoing updates on the Withcott facility available through the Lockyer Valley Foods website.