By TANIA PHILLIPS
THE Tweed Coast’s own Madura tea has made some important friends in high places in recent weeks.
It seems from now on some of the biggest decisions in NSW could be made over a Madura.
NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell announced that the NSW Parliament House is now stocking Tweed’s Madura tea – a 100 per cent Australian family-owned tea growing, blending and packing company.
To celebrate the new arrangement Mr O’Farrell was joined for afternoon tea at his NSW Parliament office last week by Madura directors Stephen Bright and Gary Davey, Speaker of the NSW Parliament Shelley Hancock and Tweed MP Geoff Provest.
“Madura tea is naturally low in caffeine and high in antioxidants – but importantly it also tastes fantastic,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“It is appropriate that our Parliament, which represents NSW residents, sets an example by stocking and showcasing our state’s products wherever possible.
“By serving Madura tea at NSW Parliament House we are doing our bit to support local jobs and the economy in the Tweed Valley – and providing our guests with a tea that is bursting with flavour.”
Mr O’Farrell said that, after hearing the Madura story, he had asked the Speaker of the NSW Parliament Shelley Hancock to consider stocking the teas.
“We take great pride in serving up the very best produce NSW has to offer in our dining room, cafe and at catered functions and Madura tea has already become a favourite,” Ms Hancock said.
“Madura tea is the latest NSW product on offer at Parliament and it has been an incredibly popular addition to our menu.
“We are determined to do everything possible to showcase and support successful NSW businesses like Madura.”
Tweed MP Geoff Provest said Madura tea was a local success story.
“Madura tea is grown in eco-sensitive conditions in a fantastic part of the world – the Tweed Valley,” Mr Provest said.
“Four families from the Tweed Valley region own Madura tea and the company provides an important boost the local economy.
“In the Tweed, we already know how good Madura tea is and the word is spreading.
“It is great that staff and visitors to NSW Parliament have an opportunity to drink this fantastic tasting tea.”
