The renovated Virginia Horticulture Centre in South Australia is now open, providing horticulture-related businesses with office space in the centre of Virginia's main street.
The facility, in operation since 1994, offers 24/7 access to private offices and shared hot desk spaces for the local horticulture sector. The Northern Adelaide Plains Food Cluster, based at the Centre, supports both family-run and large-scale produce operations in the region. The organisation provides training, industry updates, and initiatives aimed at maintaining the sustainability of intensive horticulture and food production.
© City of Playford
Cluster Manager Joe Coluccio said the Northern Adelaide Plains produces one-third of South Australia's output and supports industries beyond farming. "From accountants, marketers, service providers, and government agencies, everyone contributes to the food production journey," he said. "The Centre offers a place where these services can connect with growers and the wider industry."
Cluster Chair Barrie Lloyd said the aim is to build on the Centre's long-standing role as a key contact point for growers. "Our vision is always for the Centre to be the go-to place for growers– if they have a question, they know they can come here," he said.
The Centre played a role following the 2021 hailstorm, which caused more than US$65 million in crop and property losses across South Australia. "In a crisis, this Centre becomes the meeting point – when people want to know what to do next," Coluccio said.
Current industry challenges include the tomato brown rugose fruit virus, which has caused yield losses of up to 70% in South Australia and Victoria. "There are pressure points, and we act as a vessel to guide our growers through them," Coluccio said.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said the upgrades provide opportunities for greater industry collaboration. "These recent upgrades allow us to foster a stronger network," he said. "I look forward to hearing more success stories out of the Centre, a place where Council has continued to support and strengthen one of our largest industries."
For more information:
Jessika Smith
City of Playford
Tel: +61 (0) 8 8256 0333
Email: [email protected]
www.playford.sa.gov.au
