|
|
|
Monday, 22 March 2004 There is more to rice than what fits on a single grain and all will be revealed at the official Australian launch of the United Nations 2004 International Year of Rice at Parliament House, Canberra on 24 March. The Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia Inc, together with Federal Member for Farrer, Ms Sussan Ley, will host an evening to celebrate the diversity of a food that is the staple for more than half the world’s population. Deputy Prime Minister, The Honourable Mr John Anderson will officially launch the event to an audience of state and federal ministers and politicians, international ambassadors and representatives, and invited guests, including Southern NSW rice growers. “It is an honour to officially launch this International Year as rice is one of the most important foods on this planet, said Mr Anderson. “The United Nations has declared 2004 International Year of Rice with the aim of promoting the awareness of, and guidance for, sustainable development of this important food and Australia has a unique role to play, “We have the most efficient, productive and environmentally sustainable rice farming systems in the world and are recognised world wide for our innovation, research and development and the quality of our product, “We also have the fourth largest rice food company in the world, SunRice, anchored in regional Australia, therefore from paddock to plate our Australian rice industry is a true Australian agricultural success story,” said Mr Anderson. “This is an important event, not only for my electorate where rice underpins the social fabric of regional communities but for the nation. The Australian rice industry is an $800 million industry and a major exporter of high quality branded product and is at the leading edge of environmental improvement is Australian agriculture,” said Ms Sussan Ley. The Deputy Prime Minister will unveil a ‘secret’ rice sculpture provided by the Australian rice industry and specifically designed for the official launch. CONTACT |
NEWS & EVENTS |
    |
© Copyright Ricegrowers' Association of Australia |
