My Produce, Your Plate, Our Future

North Queensland farming families and employees wanting to improve their businesses with improved practical methods are being encouraged to attend a free two-day forum in Laura next week.

AgForce Drought Project Manager Tahna Jackson said the Laura event was the first of five events being held across Queensland this year under the State Government’s Community Drought Support Program. This event is being held in conjunction with Cape York Natural Resource Management.

“The ‘My Produce, Your Plate, Our Future’ forum is aimed at providing social support to farming families while providing tips and tools to improve their businesses - including LPA accreditation, Introduction to Farm Planning, and Business Analysis’’ she said.

Cape York Natural Resource Management chairperson Emma Jackson said that the combined event was a great opportunity for Cape York beef cattle producers to get together, and to hear from some great speakers.

“Cape York NRM is pleased to support this event, which is made possible through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program” Mrs Jackson said.

“Together with AgForce we’ve been able to put together a fantastic program with something for everyone” she said.

The ‘My Produce, Your Plate, Our Future’ forum is being held at Ang-Gnarra Aboriginal Corporation Hall in Laura next Tuesday and Wednesday – 15 and 16 May - from 9am to 5pm.

Key note speaker Dick Richardson is an internationally recognised leader in the practice of natural grazing to improve soil depth and health, water retention, increased biodiversity and animal production.

Agricultural photographer Fiona Lake will conduct a session titled Drones, Are they the future? And can they Help? and Adam Spinelli from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland will discuss practical tips for Farm Safety.

Former Landline presenter and executive producer Peter Lewis is the Forum master of ceremonies.

During the event there will be stalls set up to act as one stop shops for patrons to ask questions and receive information.

Free camping will be available at the Laura Rodeo Grounds where acclaimed entertainer Jasmin Chapman will perform at the Beef-n-Beer BBQ Dinner on Tuesday night.

Tickets are free but registrations are essential for catering purposes via Tahna Jackson on jacksont@agforceqld.org.au 0408 786 057 or Michael Goddard 0498 760 022 mgoddard@capeyorknrm.com.au