Growing boutique farm life

By Breanna Lloyd

The Meat the Market Forum on 6 May welcomed small and boutique animal producers, distributors, and interested persons to the CQLX Saleyards in Gracemere.

Many guest speakers came to the event, discussing natural disaster topics (bushfires and flooding) and the pandemic restrictions and how these events have restrained Queensland’s food supply chain.

Attendees not only heard from experts/ leaders in the industries but also had the opportunity to meet other producers and establish strategies to grow their economies.

“The Meating the Market Forum and survey was initiated to empower local communities and enhance the economic sustainability and resilience of Central Queensland in the face of changing climate conditions,” said Mayor Andy Ireland.

“The meat industry plays a crucial role in our food chain, and promoting locally grown, sustainably produced, and humanely processed meat and value-added products is a logical step towards meeting this challenge.

“As a result of the forum, a reference and action group will be established to provide industry and community advice and input into the development of a feasibility study.”

Mr Ireland believes these goals will help the state secure a more efficient way towards Queensland’s food supply.

The Meating the Market Forum group plans to create more jobs, and infrastructure, and will bring targeted investments to regional communities.

“We are committed to exploring all opportunities to achieve these goals, including attracting investment in the establishment of a processing facility,” said Mr Ireland.

“The reference and action group will play a key role in this process.

“The Meating the Market Forum and survey were both great opportunities for local producers to share their ideas and experiences.

“By working together, we can increase the chances of success and build a better future for our communities.“

Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said how important the agricultural industry is to Queensland and how the Meating the Market Forum would help the region.

“Agriculture has been a big contributor to our region and a sector where we see real growth opportunities going forward,” he said.

“We want to see more investment and jobs across the agriculture sector and we are proud to support events like this that bring together landowners and producers to discuss small animal supply chains, their benefits, challenges and opportunities.”