❓ The Minister for Regional Development provides an update on the potential of the Ord region to produce world-class food crops, specifically highlighting the successful first commercial rice crop in over 20 years and its water efficiency. The answer also touches on future expansion plans and commercial partnerships.
AnsweredQoN 433Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
ORD REGION — COMMERCIAL RICE CROP
Will the minister please update the house on the potential of the Ord region to produce world-class food crops now that the harvesting of the first commercial rice crop in Western Australia in over 20 years is currently underway? Mr B.J. GRYLLS
Will the minister please update the house on the potential of the Ord region to produce world-class food crops now that the harvesting of the first commercial rice crop in Western Australia in over 20 years is currently underway? Mr B.J. GRYLLS
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for North West for the question, and his interest in the project. I hope that all members of the Legislative Assembly have now received the packets of Ord valley rice and Ord valley chia that have been distributed to them today. It is very exciting to see the cultivation of these base crops starting to be undertaken in the Ord valley, as they will underpin the development that is well and truly underway. The government has invested substantially in the expansion of agriculture in the far East Kimberley, and it has been very exciting to see the commercial sector’s interest in and take-up of the crops that are going to underpin that development in the future, none more so than rice. The 2010 Ord River rice crop has produced very encouraging results in its yield, water efficiency, production cycle and grain quality. Laurie Arthur and Nick Lowing, rice growers from New South Wales, have put in place the first commercial rice crops in the East Kimberley for well over 20 years. Approximately 240 hectares of rice has been grown this year, the three varieties being quest, amaroo, and jarrah. Most interestingly—this is one of the really exciting things about the Ord development—the rice has grown far more quickly than it has anywhere in anybody’s experience. It grew in 105 days, rather than 150—45 days quicker than it would get to harvest in the Murray–Darling basin. If we consider that the Murray–Darling basin does not have secure water entitlements and so its farmers do not know from one year to the next whether they will have water to grow a rice crop, the ability to have a secure water entitlement, plus this short growing window, is very, very exciting. Because the crop has grown so very quickly, it has been grown with six megalitres of water a hectare, compared with up to 10 megalitres a hectare in the Murray–Darling. There are two good things about that: obviously, water is the major cost of growing the crop; but also the environmental efficiency of this crop is very, very important. The boss of Sunrice told me that Ord valley rice is the most water-efficient irrigated rice in the world. Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for North West for the question, and his interest in the project. I hope that all members of the Legislative Assembly have now received the packets of Ord valley rice and Ord valley chia that have been distributed to them today. It is very exciting to see the cultivation of these base crops starting to be undertaken in the Ord valley, as they will underpin the development that is well and truly underway. The government has invested substantially in the expansion of agriculture in the far East Kimberley, and it has been very exciting to see the commercial sector’s interest in and take-up of the crops that are going to underpin that development in the future, none more so than rice. The 2010 Ord River rice crop has produced very encouraging results in its yield, water efficiency, production cycle and grain quality. Laurie Arthur and Nick Lowing, rice growers from New South Wales, have put in place the first commercial rice crops in the East Kimberley for well over 20 years. Approximately 240 hectares of rice has been grown this year, the three varieties being quest, amaroo, and jarrah. Most interestingly—this is one of the really exciting things about the Ord development—the rice has grown far more quickly than it has anywhere in anybody’s experience. It grew in 105 days, rather than 150—45 days quicker than it would get to harvest in the Murray–Darling basin. If we consider that the Murray–Darling basin does not have secure water entitlements and so its farmers do not know from one year to the next whether they will have water to grow a rice crop, the ability to have a secure water entitlement, plus this short growing window, is very, very exciting. Because the crop has grown so very quickly, it has been grown with six megalitres of water a hectare, compared with up to 10 megalitres a hectare in the Murray–Darling. There are two good things about that: obviously, water is the major cost of growing the crop; but also the environmental efficiency of this crop is very, very important. The boss of Sunrice told me that Ord valley rice is the most water-efficient irrigated rice in the world. Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
I thank the member for North West for the question, and his interest in the project. I hope that all members of the Legislative Assembly have now received the packets of Ord valley rice and Ord valley chia that have been distributed to them today. It is very exciting to see the cultivation of these base crops starting to be undertaken in the Ord valley, as they will underpin the development that is well and truly underway. The government has invested substantially in the expansion of agriculture in the far East Kimberley, and it has been very exciting to see the commercial sector’s interest in and take-up of the crops that are going to underpin that development in the future, none more so than rice. The 2010 Ord River rice crop has produced very encouraging results in its yield, water efficiency, production cycle and grain quality. Laurie Arthur and Nick Lowing, rice growers from New South Wales, have put in place the first commercial rice crops in the East Kimberley for well over 20 years. Approximately 240 hectares of rice has been grown this year, the three varieties being quest, amaroo, and jarrah. Most interestingly—this is one of the really exciting things about the Ord development—the rice has grown far more quickly than it has anywhere in anybody’s experience. It grew in 105 days, rather than 150—45 days quicker than it would get to harvest in the Murray–Darling basin. If we consider that the Murray–Darling basin does not have secure water entitlements and so its farmers do not know from one year to the next whether they will have water to grow a rice crop, the ability to have a secure water entitlement, plus this short growing window, is very, very exciting. Because the crop has grown so very quickly, it has been grown with six megalitres of water a hectare, compared with up to 10 megalitres a hectare in the Murray–Darling. There are two good things about that: obviously, water is the major cost of growing the crop; but also the environmental efficiency of this crop is very, very important. The boss of Sunrice told me that Ord valley rice is the most water-efficient irrigated rice in the world. Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The government has invested substantially in the expansion of agriculture in the far East Kimberley, and it has been very exciting to see the commercial sector’s interest in and take-up of the crops that are going to underpin that development in the future, none more so than rice. The 2010 Ord River rice crop has produced very encouraging results in its yield, water efficiency, production cycle and grain quality. Laurie Arthur and Nick Lowing, rice growers from New South Wales, have put in place the first commercial rice crops in the East Kimberley for well over 20 years. Approximately 240 hectares of rice has been grown this year, the three varieties being quest, amaroo, and jarrah. Most interestingly—this is one of the really exciting things about the Ord development—the rice has grown far more quickly than it has anywhere in anybody’s experience. It grew in 105 days, rather than 150—45 days quicker than it would get to harvest in the Murray–Darling basin. If we consider that the Murray–Darling basin does not have secure water entitlements and so its farmers do not know from one year to the next whether they will have water to grow a rice crop, the ability to have a secure water entitlement, plus this short growing window, is very, very exciting. Because the crop has grown so very quickly, it has been grown with six megalitres of water a hectare, compared with up to 10 megalitres a hectare in the Murray–Darling. There are two good things about that: obviously, water is the major cost of growing the crop; but also the environmental efficiency of this crop is very, very important. The boss of Sunrice told me that Ord valley rice is the most water-efficient irrigated rice in the world. Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for North West for the question, and his interest in the project. I hope that all members of the Legislative Assembly have now received the packets of Ord valley rice and Ord valley chia that have been distributed to them today. It is very exciting to see the cultivation of these base crops starting to be undertaken in the Ord valley, as they will underpin the development that is well and truly underway. The government has invested substantially in the expansion of agriculture in the far East Kimberley, and it has been very exciting to see the commercial sector’s interest in and take-up of the crops that are going to underpin that development in the future, none more so than rice. The 2010 Ord River rice crop has produced very encouraging results in its yield, water efficiency, production cycle and grain quality. Laurie Arthur and Nick Lowing, rice growers from New South Wales, have put in place the first commercial rice crops in the East Kimberley for well over 20 years. Approximately 240 hectares of rice has been grown this year, the three varieties being quest, amaroo, and jarrah. Most interestingly—this is one of the really exciting things about the Ord development—the rice has grown far more quickly than it has anywhere in anybody’s experience. It grew in 105 days, rather than 150—45 days quicker than it would get to harvest in the Murray–Darling basin. If we consider that the Murray–Darling basin does not have secure water entitlements and so its farmers do not know from one year to the next whether they will have water to grow a rice crop, the ability to have a secure water entitlement, plus this short growing window, is very, very exciting. Because the crop has grown so very quickly, it has been grown with six megalitres of water a hectare, compared with up to 10 megalitres a hectare in the Murray–Darling. There are two good things about that: obviously, water is the major cost of growing the crop; but also the environmental efficiency of this crop is very, very important. The boss of Sunrice told me that Ord valley rice is the most water-efficient irrigated rice in the world. Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
I thank the member for North West for the question, and his interest in the project. I hope that all members of the Legislative Assembly have now received the packets of Ord valley rice and Ord valley chia that have been distributed to them today. It is very exciting to see the cultivation of these base crops starting to be undertaken in the Ord valley, as they will underpin the development that is well and truly underway. The government has invested substantially in the expansion of agriculture in the far East Kimberley, and it has been very exciting to see the commercial sector’s interest in and take-up of the crops that are going to underpin that development in the future, none more so than rice. The 2010 Ord River rice crop has produced very encouraging results in its yield, water efficiency, production cycle and grain quality. Laurie Arthur and Nick Lowing, rice growers from New South Wales, have put in place the first commercial rice crops in the East Kimberley for well over 20 years. Approximately 240 hectares of rice has been grown this year, the three varieties being quest, amaroo, and jarrah. Most interestingly—this is one of the really exciting things about the Ord development—the rice has grown far more quickly than it has anywhere in anybody’s experience. It grew in 105 days, rather than 150—45 days quicker than it would get to harvest in the Murray–Darling basin. If we consider that the Murray–Darling basin does not have secure water entitlements and so its farmers do not know from one year to the next whether they will have water to grow a rice crop, the ability to have a secure water entitlement, plus this short growing window, is very, very exciting. Because the crop has grown so very quickly, it has been grown with six megalitres of water a hectare, compared with up to 10 megalitres a hectare in the Murray–Darling. There are two good things about that: obviously, water is the major cost of growing the crop; but also the environmental efficiency of this crop is very, very important. The boss of Sunrice told me that Ord valley rice is the most water-efficient irrigated rice in the world. Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The government has invested substantially in the expansion of agriculture in the far East Kimberley, and it has been very exciting to see the commercial sector’s interest in and take-up of the crops that are going to underpin that development in the future, none more so than rice. The 2010 Ord River rice crop has produced very encouraging results in its yield, water efficiency, production cycle and grain quality. Laurie Arthur and Nick Lowing, rice growers from New South Wales, have put in place the first commercial rice crops in the East Kimberley for well over 20 years. Approximately 240 hectares of rice has been grown this year, the three varieties being quest, amaroo, and jarrah. Most interestingly—this is one of the really exciting things about the Ord development—the rice has grown far more quickly than it has anywhere in anybody’s experience. It grew in 105 days, rather than 150—45 days quicker than it would get to harvest in the Murray–Darling basin. If we consider that the Murray–Darling basin does not have secure water entitlements and so its farmers do not know from one year to the next whether they will have water to grow a rice crop, the ability to have a secure water entitlement, plus this short growing window, is very, very exciting. Because the crop has grown so very quickly, it has been grown with six megalitres of water a hectare, compared with up to 10 megalitres a hectare in the Murray–Darling. There are two good things about that: obviously, water is the major cost of growing the crop; but also the environmental efficiency of this crop is very, very important. The boss of Sunrice told me that Ord valley rice is the most water-efficient irrigated rice in the world. Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Rice samples from the first harvest have been de-hulled and polished in trial-scale milling machinery in Kununurra, and brown rice and white rice samples have been distributed to members. Yields are in the order of six to eight tonnes, and the growers believe that, this being their first year, they have substantial scope to expand on that yield. This year, 1 700 tonnes of rice will be harvested, dried in existing silo storage in Kununurra, hulled, and exported in containers via the Wyndham port for further processing in Papua New Guinea, which is where the commercial polishing of the rice will happen. The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The commercial arrangements being developed between Ord growers and Sunrice will provide the growers with access to high-value niche marketing opportunities through the Sunrice connections. The board of Sunrice, which is one of Australia’s biggest agrifood companies, is very, very excited about the potential to develop the Ord, and it is keeping a very close eye on developments. Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Next year, the growers are hoping to plant up to 1 200 hectares of rice, which will yield up to 10 000 tonnes of rice in next year’s harvest, and growers on the ground see the ability for up to 80 000 to 100 000 tonnes of rice each year, based on the commercial-sized trials they have done this year. The only reason that these growers are there is because of Ord stage 2. There would have been no point in looking to develop a new industry if Ord stage 2 had not happened. Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Are you going to thank the federal Labor government for its investment in Western Australian infrastructure? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I was getting to that—I did the deal! Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr E.S. Ripper : So you wouldn’t like Tony Abbott’s plan to cut the infrastructure funding, would you? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Just listen to the answer! Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You’d better stick to your script, I think! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The rice is going extremely, extremely well, and it is looking like it will be a base crop for that industry into the future. Because of the water efficiency I have talked about, I think there could be great interest from Sunrice and other industry players that are looking to establish more downstream processing facilities in the East Kimberley to take advantage of the value-adding potential that happens. The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The other sample that we have provided to members is the chia seed—2 000 hectares of chia has been planted in 2010. The Chia Company is looking to develop processing facilities in Kununurra. More chia will be planted next year, on the back of commercial contracts with Baker’s Delight. For any member who wants to go to Baker’s Delight, chia bread is now available. Chia provides a broadacre base crop. Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr P. Papalia interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Sorry? What is the profit on a tonne? They do not have to explain that to the government because they are investing their own money in expanding the business. Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr P. Papalia : I am trying to reflect on the $400 million that you have invested of taxpayers’ money. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : So does the member not support the investment in the Ord? Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr P. Papalia : I don’t know. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Mr Speaker, once again the mob on the other side just do not get it! They just do not get it! We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
We now have a broadacre rice crop and a broadacre chia crop in the East Kimberley. The sandalwood industry continues to grow and expand, and there are unique opportunities for the Indigenous community to participate in that expansion. Work is happening all the time. I will finish my answer by referring to a report — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
The SPEAKER : Minister, you have been on your feet for quite a while. I will reflect that. I also say to members to my left once again that—I hope it is not my mantra—consistent interjecting is not going to help the process of question time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I want to refer to a report presented by Susan Bradley. The report states — … the Ord’s greatest strength, is the firm knowledge that the Ord Project has excellent soils, a predictable climate, huge areas of undeveloped irrigable land, the closest reliable Australian port to South East Asia and all the water farmers could ever need. Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised. This report was presented to Hon Ernie Bridge, a minister in a Labor government, in September 1990. It was not until 2010 that action has been taken to ensure that the Ord can have the real agricultural development that is occurring today.
Time is of the essence. It is up to us all to ensure that the original intent and great potential of the Ord River Irrigation Project is realised.
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