The Tasmanian government has given local business Miellerie Honey a grant worth $42,490 from the Tasmanian Government Innovation and Investment Fund (TGIIF) to help the company purchase equipment that will allow it to collect more honey and extract a new variety of high viscosity honey.
In a media release Economic Development Minister, David O’Byrne said the TGIIF grant to Miellerie Honey is another example of the government helping local businesses play to the strengths of Tasmania.
“The strong Tasmanian brand, our beautiful natural environment and our reputation for clean and safe food are just some of those competitive advantages,” said Mr. O’Byrne.
“TGIIF encourages private investment and job creation, with Miellerie Honey set to double its workforce and match investment with a total project worth $90,223.”
Miellerie Honey will have the capacity to create six full-time jobs over the next two years with the help of the grant.
Mr. O’Byrne has also commended Miellerie’s owner Yves Ginat for his leadership which has propelled the company to successfully operate and sustainably grow in the last seven years.
Mr. Ginat grew up in central France but established his honey business in Tasmania in November 2005. Miellerie has grown from working 40 hives to 160 hives during which it has produced 5 different varieties of honey: Leatherwood, Lake Pedder’s Nectar, Prickly Box, Blue Gum and Tea Tree.
According to their website, the company uses organic and biodynamic beekeeping practices to maintain the health and harmony from the hive to the jar. Miellerie’s products are sold in boutiques and gourmet food shops in Tasmania and interstate.
Minister O’Byrne said the $10 million funding which was announced by the Prime Minister to extend the TGIIF Program is a great outcome for the economy and for businesses in Tasmania.
The TGIIF program has created 450 jobs on its first two rounds and leveraged private investment worth four times that contributed by the government.
“It has a strong emphasis on helping regional businesses to grow sustainable by strategically supporting projects that are aligned with the Tasmanian Economic Development Plan,” said Mr. O’Byrne.
“We are committed to working together to grow our regions and local communities.”
