R&M Packing Pty Ltd trading as N.Q Paradise Pines started operations in 1993. The packing and distribution company was set up as a cooperative between most of the growers in the Rollingstone & Mutarnee area, and included growers from Bilyana in Far North Queensland. The Packing facility has steadily grown to become one of the 4 major pack houses for fresh pineapple in the country. Fresh pineapple grown locally is packed and shipped to all major chain stores and fresh fruit markets in every state of Australia.
N.Q Paradise Pines is currently owned by Accorsini Pty Ltd, Berra Farming Pty Ltd, Ottone & Sons and Pace Farming. The company was originally formed by directors Mario Berra, Robert Accorsini, William Crabb, Daniel Moody, Glen Hughes, Brett Ward and Michael Ottone. Rodney Hourston was also involved. Robert & Stephen Pace, brought Pace Farming into an ownership role in 2012. The current Board of Directors in order of length of tenure includes Michael Ottone, Tony Accorsini, Robert Pace, Christopher Berra and non-executive Chairman and Director of Flavorite Marketing, Grant Nichol.
The General Manager’s role was originally taken up by Les Lee. He was followed by Ian Pettigrew and then by Valerie Bowen. Robert Richardson is the current General Manager, Glendon Paul is the current Production Manager.
The Packing Shed operates at full capacity during the September to January peak season. It employs over 50 people during this very busy time, locals and backpackers from a range of countries. During the off season, operations focus on maintenance and business & infrastructure development. The season kicks off in late winter. Fruit from local growers is transported in, and only premium fruit is packed into trays, cartons or bulk supply cardboard bins. Globally recognised quality assurance and food safety programs ensure only the best pineapple ends up on a pallet. All of this delicious fruit is then transported to Brisbane to be trans-shipped around the country.