Premier Denis Napthine had a ''direct involvement'' in helping pave the way for the expansion of the food processing operation led by wealthy businessman Colin McKenna, who co-owns a racehorse with the Premier.

So say confidential Warrnambool council documents, obtained by The Age, which also reveal that the government pressed the council to assist the expansion of Mr McKenna's food processing operation, Midfield Meat.

Illustration: Ron Tandberg

The council report, dated February 10, refers to a meeting between Mr McKenna and Dr Napthine late last year. It then notes: ''Council has been requested by the Midfield Group and state government to assist with the facilitation of the Midfield expansion.''

The documents provide the most detailed account to date of Dr Napthine's involvement in his racing partner's business, which is also a big employer in the premier's South-West Coast electorate.