More beverage producers are doing their part to help meet hand sanitiser demand, with Fonterra, Spinifex Brewing and Limestone Coast Brewing all stepping in to produce supplies needed across Australia and New Zealand.
Fonterra is making 250,000 litres of high grade ethanol for New Zealand companies to use in the production of hand sanitiser, as well as working with NZ fuel company Gull for further production.
“We’re also increasing ethanol production at one of our plants to help with the availability of hand sanitiser, with a target of producing an extra 220,000 litres,” Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell said.
“Gull are already doing their part and we are working with them on testing a further 250,000 litres of their fuel grade ethanol to ensure it is suitable to be used for their sanitiser business.”
“Taking a responsible approach right now is important for communities. We also are working with the Government on their priorities for front line services.”
In Western Australia, Spinifex Brewing and Limestone Coast Brewing are teaming up to produce World Health Organisation (WHO) Grade sanitiser using approximately 80 per cent ethanol, titled Spinifex Protect.
Limestone Coast Brewing is aiming to include the infusion of its Lemon Mytyle, which has “proven health and hygiene benefits with anti-viral and anti-fungal properties”.
Spinifex managing director and Yamatji man Michael Little said it was critical to have the provision of hand sanitiser as a line of defence against Covid-19 for Aboriginal communities
"I am immensely proud of my team in taking up the challenge and being able to bring Spinifex Protect to the Aboriginal and broader Western Australian community.”
The brewers are in discussions with the WA state government and Shire of Broome to fast track plans in creating a manufacturing plant in the area, “due to the exponential risk to the Indigenous population with relation to COVID-19 and underlying health issues of that population”.
A site has been offered by Kimberly Quest owner Troy Thomas, however, Limestone Coast and Spinifex are calling on the WA Government to “engage with us immediately to assit in getting this project underway”.
The brewers are inviting organisations interested in consideration for supply to register via email at info@spinifexprotect.com.au.
