The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has developed a new agriculture group based in the Western Downs region with the hope of bringing together people aged 15 to 35 who work within the agriculture industry.
DAF industry development officer Laura Carman said in an industry with one of the most aged workforces in Australia, young agricultural producers were beginning to explore different and innovative new farming methods.
“Establishing a group where these young producers can form a strong and trusted network will allow for sharing of experiences and ideas, and in turn assist them to be more innovative with their farming practices,” she said.
“The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries hopes the initiative will encourage the industry leaders of the future to work together to build a better future and boost agribusiness in the Western Downs region.
“The Young Agriculture Group aims to build a network and relationships among the young producer community of the Western Downs to initiate innovative thinking and showcase different farming practices.
“All aspects of agriculture will be covered from ‘paddock to plate’, to engineering, marketing and banking.”
The Group will meet three to four times a year, with meetings to be held at different members’ farms to showcase what they are doing.
The first meeting of the Young Agriculture Group will be hosted by Mort and Co’s Feedlot at Grassdale near Dalby on Thursday February 15, 2018.
There will be a tour of the feedlot and farm, prior to presentations and a discussion about the future direction of the new group and what members would like to see.
Producers who are interested in being part of the Young Agriculture Group or hosting a field day should phone (07) 4669 0815 or email laura.carman@daf.qld.gov.au.