The Future of Orbost and District (FoOD) project has helped take another step toward developing a regional industrial hemp
industry, hosting a two-day forum in Orbost on November 18-19 that brought together farmers, industry leaders, researchers, government representatives and community members.
The forum explored the feasibility of building a hemp industry in East Gippsland, including the concept of an Orbost Hemp Hub that could coordinate regional capability, research, commercialisation and value-chain development.
Participants discussed opportunities to repurpose former timber mill sites, leverage advanced manufacturing and agricultural strengths and build on strong local interest in diversification following the forestry transition.
Key issues raised included the national challenge of hemp seed supply — particularly matching varieties to local latitudes, achieving consistent germination and improving transparency in the seed chain and suitability for specific end use.
Gippsland was identified as well placed to play a leadership role in addressing these challenges.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of targeting specific markets, continued local trials, building more awareness of the benefits and opportunities, and the need for coordinated collaboration between key industry bodies including Food & Fibre Gippsland, the Victorian Hemp Association and the Australian Hemp Council.
To maintain momentum, the FoOD project, together with its partners, is now developing a series of work packages to further investigate feasibility, undertake targeted research and support the development of viable business models for attracting investment and commercial partners.
“Industrial hemp has real potential for East Gippsland, but it won’t be unlocked by individual businesses acting alone,” secretary of the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Garry Squires said.
“This is about building a whole value chain and a strong regional ecosystem.
“The interest and collaboration we’re seeing gives us confidence that our district can be part of shaping this emerging industry.”
Gippslanders can continue learning about hemp’s potential by attending the Global Hemp Summit at Lardner Park from December 10-12, which will focus strongly on opportunities in construction and sustainable building materials.
The FoOD project is a response to the impacts of the end of native timber harvesting in Victoria’s state forests, and the need to transition the local economy.
The purpose of the project is to build on to Orbost and District’s existing strengths and leverage opportunities for supporting positive economic, social and environmental outcomes.
The project is delivered by the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which is overseen by a community-led governance group and supported by the State Government.
