IN A major coup for the region’s manufacturing sector, the largest Australian-owned processor of tortillas and flat bread is moving its base of operations to Maryborough.Currently based in Melbourne, True Foods has announced it plans to move into the town’s former Nestle factory in six to 12 months.It is estimated more than 160 manufacturing jobs will be created over five years.The large factory was closed in 2002 when Nestle ceased operations. Since then a number of unsuccessful attempts at re-establishing the site have occurred — the most recent being pre-packed meals and baby food producer Matisse, which closed its doors three years ago after just six months of operations.Deputy Premier Peter Ryan said True Foods would receive funding to secure a $3.4 million capital investment in a state-of-the-art food processing plant.“This new operation promises to provide significant benefits for the local community through the creation of up to 165 local jobs,” Mr Ryan said.The company says the new five hectare site, which includes 11,000 square-metres of factory space, will allow it to grow and deliver new products as well as its existing range.“We pride ourselves on being able to produce a broad range of products,” True Foods managing director Keith De Vries said. “This can mean servicing the needs of major multinational food brands, as well as meeting the specialty needs of niche markets.”Central Goldfields mayor Chris Meddows-Taylor said the announcement was a massive boost for the community.“It’s absolutely great news,” he said.“The reaction from the business community in Maryborough has been positive and the flow-on effects from the new jobs will be a big plus.”