Macadamia processor cracks on with Queensland expansion

The Queensland Government has announced that a Bundaberg macadamia facility — which is claimed to be the world’s largest processor of the nut — will be expanding, creating 40 jobs.

Treasurer and Minister for Investment Cameron Dick said support through the government’s $175 million Jobs and Regional Growth Fund would help Marquis Macadamias increase its processing capacity by 25%.

“Global appetite for our macadamias is huge, and Marquis’ $13.3 million expansion will ensure local growers can take a bigger bite of export opportunities,” Minister Dick said.

Marquis will build a new cold storage warehouse, specialised bulk drying and packing facilities and a solar farm to generate power for its operations as part of the expansion.

“This doesn’t just help Marquis Macadamias either; it’s of benefit to the hundreds of Aussie growers who Marquis work with to get supply.”

Marquis Macadamias’ Bundaberg facility is a vertically integrated growing, processing and wholesaling operation, with the company sourcing crop from 180 shareholding growers and 170 non-shareholder growers throughout Australia.

It is also one of only two processors globally able to deliver a certified Log5 pasteurised product, allowing for reduced quarantine time to create a significant market advantage.

This project will take Marquis’ annual processing capacity from 12,000 to 15,000 tonnes.

Marquis Macadamias CEO Larry McHugh said the company’s expansion plans for its Bundaberg facility will boost employment in the Wide Bay and ensure future product demands can be met.

“With our facility currently operating at close to maximum capacity, this project will mean we’re ready to support future demands and grow and create long-term, stable jobs in Bundaberg,” McHugh said.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/barmalini