Premier Mike Rann and Hon Carmel Zollo taste the delicious food at the 2003 launch

Premier Mike Rann has highlighted the importance of both domestic and international markets for South Australia's multi billion dollar Food Industry during the launch of the 6th Premier's Food Awards.

"I am backing the Economic Development Board's target to almost triple our exports to $25 billion by 2013. The food industry is key to achieving that goal."

"Already we export food products to more than 120 countries, and our fast growing food industry is a significant employer across the state," the Premier said.

While announcing that nominations are now open for this year's prestigious Awards, Premier Rann also launched the inaugural regional Food Trail at Adelaide Central Market.

"The theme for this year's Premier's Food Awards is "To Market" so it's appropriate that I have also welcomed some of the State's finest regional food producers to Adelaide to promote and sell their products during the inaugural Regional Food Trail event," Premier Rann said.

Food South Australia, which is a State Government initiative to increase the value and international competitiveness of South Australia's Food Industry, is working with Regional Food Groups to establish new markets for their products.

During the three-day Regional Food Trail event, 50 companies from seven Regional Food Groups teamed up with targeted gourmet food stalls at the Adelaide Central Market.

Producers provided tastings to the public and an opportunity to buy products, some of which have not been available outside of their region.

"To be successful, food producers must know and engage their market and that's what this year's Premier's Food Awards is all about.

"We're celebrating our successes in going "To Market" and while it's not an easy road, the journey is certainly worth it," Premier Rann said.

Regional Food Trail

Regional Food Groups and Market Stalls:

  • Barossa Valley – Gourmet to Go
  • Adelaide Hills – Lucia's Fine Foods
  • Yorke Peninsula – Lucia's Fine Foods
  • Kangaroo Island – Say Cheese
  • Fleurieu Peninsula – Providore
  • Southern Flinders Ranges – Jagger Fine Foods
  • Limestone Coast – Stall 55

Meanwhile, nominations for the 6th Premier's Food Awards close on Friday, September 12, 2003. The Awards will be presented at a gala dinner at the Adelaide Hilton on Friday, November 21, 2003.