Stawell’s biggest private sector employer, Frewstal Abattoir, is set to take on even more workers, boost its energy efficiency and expand production.
Industry and Employment Minister Ben Carroll has announced a $7.83 million energy efficiency project that will help create 50 new jobs and boost export opportunities.
“We’re backing businesses like Frewstal so they can grow jobs, increase productivity and take advantage of local and export market opportunities,” Mr Carroll said.
The project will deliver freezer upgrades and building extensions, new meat preparation and packing equipment, and convert waste to energy.
Frewstal processes lamb and mutton products, exporting to 20 countries and supplying to Woolworths and Aldi.
Mr Carroll said Victoria’s manufacturing industry contributed $27.7 billion to the Victorian economy, with over 13,000 businesses employing more than 280,000 people.
It also exported $18.16 billion of manufactured goods in 2016-17.
Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said energy efficiency upgrades could drastically cut energy bills.
