Development application could offer 50 new jobs for Bundaberg

A Bundaberg business has revealed plans for a major fruit processing facility capable of processing more than 200 tonnes of food, and if approved will create 50 jobs.

Artist impressions of the proposed SSS Strawberries new fruit processing facility.

More than 50 jobs could be created if Bundaberg Regional Council approves an expansion to SSS Strawberries.

SSS Superfoods, better known as SSS Strawberries, has lodged a development application for a new processing facility.

The facility is proposed to be 1425 square metres in size and operate 24/7, and may employ 50 staff year round.

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Locally grown fruit would be washed and freeze dried before being processed, packaged and shipped.

It is predicted the site, at 9 Charlie Triggs Cres, will have the capacity to process more than 200 tonnes of food.

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The processing facility will allow the company to cut down on crop wastage while also supplying freeze dried fruit to wholesalers, processor and retailers under marketing name Gina’s Table.

Insight SJC submitted the application on behalf of SSS Superfoods and said the improved facility would benefit the community.

“The proposal meets a need identified by the existing business and provides operational advantages as well as significantly contributing to employment and a diverse regional economy, value-adding to the agricultural sector and facilitating further investment in the Bundaberg region,” the development application said.

The site will also include 69 carparks and one disability parking bay, as well as a truck loading bay.

The proposed SSS Strawberries freeze dried facility.

It said the site would be located at an industrial estate which was also home to a new Bundaberg Brewed Drinks facility.

The company also included a letter of support from Mayor Jack Dempsey in its application.

In his letter to SSS Strawberries, Mr Dempsey said the company is a “vital contributor” to the region’s economy through the employment of more than 300 seasonal workers.

“Following recent meetings with staff to discuss your project, in response to strong demand for your product and proactive market development, Council is excited by the potential economic benefits your project could bring to the region,” he said in the letter.

“The strategic intent of the business proposal aligns with the region’s competitive advantages within the agricultural sector tapping into demand globally for year-long supply of superfoods.”

SSS STRAWBERRIES: Samples of the new freeze dried strawberries.