The strange new world we are living in is full of the uncertain, the unexpected, and the downright astonishing (eg toilet paper).
But one thing we shouldn't be surprised by is when things that have always worked continue to work!
For example, the past two weeks have proven that the power of advocacy by a strong, vocal yet professional organisation speaking on behalf of members hasn't diminished.
AgForce advocacy achieved desired outcomes on two key issues.
The first was having agriculture and the food supply chain declared an "essential service", the second, forcing the state government to reverse its knee-jerk decision to close licensed armourers and rural supply stores that sell ammunition to farmers.
The success of both campaigns resulted from fearless, persistent and experienced advocacy and the power of speaking with a strong voice.
This week, members of the Invicta Combined Grower Organisation, or ICGO, will meet to discuss adding their voice to AgForce's - and our members are being asked whether they feel there is value to them in adding cane as our fourth commodity.
While I have no idea what the outcome will be - and I anticipate passionate views on both sides of the fence - this is not unknown territory.
It was the same question asked of members of the Cattlemen's Union of Australia, United Graziers' Association and Queensland Grain Growers' Association more than 20 years ago.
These three outspoken, independent organisations that rarely saw eye to eye ultimately voted to become AgForce.
Of course, we still have our disagreements in private, as any family will. But out there we present a united voice speaking on behalf of broadacre agriculture. It is a powerful tool.
The current conversation is not meant to be divisive, rather it is a chance, instigated by cane farmers in the Burdekin, to have a strong and at times uncomfortable discussion that challenges assumptions and looks to strengthen their advocacy.
Agriculture is an industry with many independent, strongly held views and also the robust and respectful nature required to have those discussions.
Whichever way this conversation ends, we will be a stronger and more united industry simply by having had it.
