The AgForce roadshow will visit Cape York Peninsula next week to discuss biosecurity, rural crime, water planning, property valuations and national parks.
AgForce North Regional President Russell Lethbridge said the field days were an opportunity for locals to hear the latest industry information from a diverse range of speakers.
It’s also a chance for AgForce representatives to get feedback from local producers about their priorities, he said.
“These multi-topic field days are designed to provide a one stop-shop of information for primary producers and access to a range of experts in one place at the one time to discuss issues that could affect agricultural businesses,” Mr Lethbridge said.
Mr Lethbridge said biosecurity was a big issue for far north primary producers with Cape York a high-risk area for the entry of exotic pests and diseases from countries to our north.
“Producers attending the field days will be able to learn more about biosecurity planning and the importance of having good on farm biosecurity procedures, as well as hear from the Cook Shire Council about managing pests and weeds better locally,” he said.
“AgForce is also pleased to welcome representatives from the Stock and Rural Crime Investigation Squad (SARCIS) to the field days to talk to producers about rural crime issues, while other topics of discussion will include water reform, national park plans and property valuations.
“With many new rural valuations being revised upwards on the back of a strong rural property market, it’s important landholders check their individual valuations are correct so they don’t end up paying more in council rates or rural rents than they should.
“It’s going to be a very busy week with lots of interesting discussions aimed at ensuring primary producers are better informed about the challenges they face as well as the opportunities to take their businesses forward.”
The AgForce Far North Multi-Topic Field Days will be held at Cooktown on 9 May, Cooktown Bowls Club, 9am to 4pm, Laura, 11 May, Quinkan Hotel, 9am to 4pm and Coen, 13 May, Exchange Hotel, 9am to 4pm.
Far North primary producers wishing to attend one of the field days are asked to please register with Tahna Jackson at jacksont@agforceqld.org.au by 5 May.
