|
|
|
Kyneton's meatworks cuts 150 jobs
29 Jun 2004
The Victorian town of Kyneton has been stunned by the loss of more than 150 jobs at its largest employer, Frews Meatworks. The company will close its boning room, killing floor and packing area at the weekend. About 30 staff will be kept on to make sausages. The job losses represent about 8 per cent of Kyneton's workforce.
A union organiser said the town was devastated when Frews' largest buyer, Safeway, cut its beef quota in preference to a Wagga Wagga supplier.
The Kyneton Business and Tourism Association said the meatworks closure will have a huge impact on the town's retail trade. It's estimated that Kyneton will lose about $1.5 million a year in turnover, in a town of 7,000-8,000 people.
Frews closed 12 years ago, then re-opened seven years ago. Bendigo Centrelink said a seminar will be held on Thursday to help retrenched workers.
The Age, 29/6/04.
|
|
