QUEENSLAND’S biggest distribution hub for fresh produce has celebrated 50 years at its Rocklea site in Brisbane.
Celebrations are continuing this month for the more than 4000 people who work or do business daily at the complex.
Agriculture Minister John McVeigh and Brisbane Markets chairman Tony Joseph were onsite on August 26 to start the festivities.
Brisbane Markets at Rocklea was opened on August 26, 1964 by the then Queensland Premier Frank Nicklin after its relocation from its original city precinct at Turbot and Roma Streets.
Before cutting the ribbon of the purpose-built and state-owned markets, Mr Nicklin called the complex the most modern in Australia.
Brisbane Markets is now industry-owned after a restructure in 2002 and is midway through a $150 million redevelopment.
With more than 70,000 growers from throughout Australia supplying produce for sale, there are 54 primary wholesalers who operate at the Rocklea site as well as an additional 90 support businesses.
*See our special Brisbane Markets feature in the September edition of Good Fruit and Vegetables magazine.
