Deal to boost industry, jobs

The sale of Harvey Beef to billionaire Andrew Forrest has raised hopes of greater expansion which would bring more jobs and income from exports to China.

Last week Mr Forrest bought Harvey Beef for about $40 million and in a statement released through his company Minderoo he confirmed he would look into expanding the company and increasing trade through his contacts in China.

Harvey Beef was established in 1919 by Ernest Green and is one of WA’s most iconic brands.

Harvey’s only independent butcher Kev’s Big Country Meats supplies the region with Harvey Beef.

Owner Kevin Gordon said Mr Forrest’s acquisition of Harvey Beef was good for the town and would probably create more jobs.

“It is all up, up and away by the looks of it, ” he said.

“It is going to be a win-win for farmers who will be able to produce more cattle, especially if they get a market overseas and that is good for the whole State.”

“I opened this shop 15 years ago and have been a supplier of Harvey Beef for 15 years. I supply Harvey Beef to people from all over the world wanting the product.

“They (Harvey Beef) source their beef from all over the South West and the producers have great feed for the cattle so it is a great product.”

Harvey Beef returns to WA family hands after being owned by the Hong Kong-based company Pacific Alliance Group.

Harvey shire president Tania Jackson said the council looked forward to a good relationship with the new owners.

“Harvey Beef is an important employer and we would like to see it as a sustainable and growing industry in the region, ” she said.

Harvey Beef already employs 300 people and processes about 145,000 grass and grain-fed cattle each year.

Harvey Beef chief executive officer Michael Hughes said the company was delighted Minderoo had acquired Harvey Beef and would continue to invest in the highest quality beef processing.

“We are a proud brand and are committed to getting on with the job to supply Australians and the emerging markets of the world with the best beef, ” he said.

“This is an excellent result not just for Harvey Beef, but for our suppliers. The vision Mr Forrest has demonstrated is bright for the agricultural industry.”