Endeavour River Productivity Network

Cape York graziers and producers from in and around Cooktown have come together to share knowledge, access professional support, and trial land management innovations.

Network Coordinator Trevor Meldrum said the initiative, which falls under Cape York NRM’s Enhanced Extension Coordination in Great Barrier Reef Catchments project, provides a range of services to farmers.

‘The Network provides one on one professional support, facilitated group learning, and Focus Farms –  a try before you buy model where farmers volunteer their properties for land management trials enabling members to see the real – world results of innovative practice,’ Trevor explained.

‘It’s all about extension -  providing up to date information which enables producers and graziers to make practice changes that lead to better business and environmental sustainability.’

The Network was established in late 2019 and currently has 14 members with plenty of others expressing interest in joining the group. It joins several other producer groups across the Far North which have been established under the Enhanced Extension project.

‘The Network is already doing great things,’ Trevor said. ‘One of our first activities was completing Pest Management Plans for members’ properties, resulting in increased member confidence weed and feral animal management.

‘We recently held our first Field Day – it focused on soil health and weed management and featured presentations from soil specialist David Hall and weed management entrepreneur and design engineer Alex Olson. The Network is a great way to learn from your peers, get to know your neighbours, and spend time with people who understand the challenges of trying to earn a living from the land. I encourage all producers from the Cooktown district to get in touch and see what it’s all about.’

‘While the lockdown means we can’t meet face to face, the Endeavour River Productivity Network is still around, we are here for you and have not gone anywhere.’

For more information on the Endeavour River Productivity Network please contact Trevor Meldrum on 0400 368 834.

This initiative is funded by the Queensland Government Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries with partner organisations Cape York NRM, Terrain NRM, and Cape York Weeds and Ferals Inc.