We held our final networking event for 2024 at the East Coast Beverages site in Kulnura. With the rain holding off we were catered by the onsite cafe Bambino’s and used the cafe area to network and have our formal proceedings. Executive Director , Frank Sammut, commenced proceedings acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land that the event was being held on, the Darkinjung people. He noted the immediate area at Kulnura was a treasure trove of indigenous sites of cultural significance .
After the usual acknowledgements of sponsors, and visitors Frank went on to list then achievements of CCIC over the past 12 months. From establishing the women in Manufacturing group through to collaborations with local manufacturers and clusters around the country, and the training programs delivered, a formidible list of achievements was presented.
Frank then handed over to Samuel Lentini , Managing director East Coast beverages. In an interview format Sam spoke about the family history of the site , the growth of the business and some of current challenges with procuring oranges for their famous orange juice. He spoke about the expansion of the site recently completed, which increased juice production significantly. He also mentioned their sustainability initiatives and how they are supplying pulp as an ingredient to Agrana Fruit down the road at Mangrove mountain.
The event ended with a site tour of the facilities which show cased the investment and changes to their process capability. With close to 60 people in attendance it was a fitting way to end the year.
