Success story: Small businesses hit international waters with inspiring program

Producers across the region have spent years perfecting their craft, and now with the help of an innovative program, they’ve been able to export overseas. Here’s how to get involved.

Four Daughters Premium Black Angus – Karen Penfold, Justin Heaven, TSBE, and Dan Penfold.

Meandarra’s Dan and Karen Penfold are living proof that without confidence in your brand and a willingness to think outside the square, true business success will always be lying in wait.

The Penfolds joined the Emerging Exporters Program in 2019, pledging to work on their business, Four Daughters, and explore the international exportation market through the program.

With support provided through the Emerging Exporters Program, Four Daughters has exported their premium Black Angus beef to China and continue to explore new markets and opportunities.

Now, other agribusinesses are being invited to explore the same opportunities.

TSBE Food Leaders Australia are looking for agribusinesses who are ready to take their next step towards exploring their potential to export.

In its fourth year the Emerging Exporters Program is building on the successes of the past three years and is being run to assist those who are interested in exporting their products.

This program, delivered by FLA, is an initiative of Shell’s QGC business and is a three-year program to see a cohort of exporters make inroads into new markets.

Emerging Exporters is a part of Shell’s QGC business’ commitment to regional economic development and working with the community to diversify local economies.

Rangeland Quality Meats business manager Alister Hughes was a participant in the 2020 cohort.

“Being in a room full of like-minded businesses is a great opportunity to grow your knowledge base, while being able to have all your questions answered by people and businesses who have walked the road before you,” he said.

“It provided me and my business a better understanding of the process, and do’s and don’ts and what to look out for when entering the export markets.”

Morrissey and Co also joined the Emerging Exporters Program in 2020 and is a 5th generation family-owned and operated business based in the regional town of Jandowae in South West Queensland.

Morrissey and Co have used the network and the opportunities within the Emerging Exporters Program to review and develop their business for the next generation.

“We are thrilled to be participating in this program to develop and grow our business for the next generation,” said Business Owner Christine Morrissey.

Shell’s QGC Emerging Exporters Program is a tailored program including targeted workshops and one-on-one support which gives participants the tools and capabilities to become competent, sustainable exporters who can manage risk and make informed decisions before embarking on their export journey.

To get involved with the program and attend the workshops on April 14 in Chinchilla or Dalby please contact Justin Heaven on 07 4639 4600 or email [e-mail]