The first time you do anything is a bit nerve-racking and writing my first column for AgForce is no exception, let me tell you!
The journey of Invicta Combined Growers Organisation to become AgForce Cane Limited continues to be a steep learning curve.
But it's also been a humbling and inspiring experience for the board and members of Invicta, to be so welcomed into an organisation with a centuries-long history of standing up for farmers and their communities.
One of AgForce's founding members, the United Graziers' Association, was formed in Barcaldine way back in 1889 to fight for the rights of woolgrowers during the national shearers' strike.
ICGO, like most cane organisations, doesn't enjoy the same longevity (albeit that the Invicta Mill that we grow for celebrates its centenary this year).
But we share the same passion and goals, and that's why joining AgForce feels like coming home.
Our focus will remain on maximising the productivity and profitability of our cane members. It is important - and I can guarantee this - that they will receive the same expert services as before.
For example, we have negotiated a new cane supply agreement, or CSA, for our new members in the Herbert region as we have done for cane farmers in the Burdekin.
And we have been integrally involved in the industry's planning - along with other farmer bodies, millers and contractors - to minimise or eliminate the impacts of COVID-19 on our businesses.
But, by joining our voices with those of 5000 other primary producers across the length and breadth of Queensland, we believe we can achieve ever greater things.
In particular, we are looking forward to our voice being heard beyond the Burdekin and the Herbert and into the suburbs of Brisbane and the corridors of government where decisions are made.
That's the foundation of the relationship between ICGO and AgForce - standing shoulder to shoulder to fight the state government's unfair reef regulations including our rally outside the Community Cabinet meeting in Townsville in 2019.
Although AgForce Cane is young, I believe we will one day boast a legacy of achievement to match that of AgForce and its founding organisations.
Because cane farmers are looking for a new way of doing things and that's what AgForce offers us.