The inaugural Ag & Innovation – Rotary FNQ Field Days
Inaugural Ag & Innovation Precinct – Rotary FNQ Field Days 2025
FNQ Growers was proud to partner with the Rotary FNQ Field Days to deliver the inaugural Ag & Innovation Precinct at the 2025 Rotary FNQ Field Days, held from 28–30 May at the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds. This exciting new initiative brought together growers, researchers, agricultural businesses, peak industry bodies and government representatives to showcase the latest advancements in agriculture and encourage collaboration across the industry. The precinct was developed to provide growers with access to valuable information, emerging technologies and innovative solutions to improve productivity, profitability and sustainability. It also provided an important platform to highlight the strength and diversity of Far North Queensland’s agricultural sector and the opportunities available for its future growth.
A major feature of the precinct was the Ag & Innovation Forum and Speakers’ Program Throughout the three days, a range of informative forums and presentations brought together representatives from the National Farmers’ Federation, Queensland Farmers’ Federation, Hort Innovation, Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers, government departments and other industry organisations. Discussions covered important topics including agricultural policy, farm safety, robotics and automation, agritourism, sustainability, emerging technologies and the challenges and opportunities facing growers. The forums provided an opportunity for growers to engage directly with industry leaders, share their concerns, ask questions and gain valuable insights into developments affecting their businesses. The precinct also featured agricultural exhibitors and technology displays, giving visitors the chance to explore practical innovations and connect with industry experts.
Another significant highlight was the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) AgTech and Innovation Breakfast, held on Thursday, 29 May, in conjunction with industry partners. The sold-out breakfast brought together growers, industry leaders, peak bodies and government representatives, including Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett and Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy. The event provided an opportunity to discuss the future of Queensland agriculture, the role of innovation in improving farm productivity and the importance of strong industry representation. An important outcome of the Field Days was the Queensland Government’s announcement of changes to disaster assistance eligibility, including rules relating to off-farm income and the definition of a primary producer, helping to improve access to support for disaster-affected farming businesses.
The inaugural Ag & Innovation Farm Tours, organised in collaboration with FNQ Growers and sponsored by Mareeba and Dimbulah Community Bank, were another popular addition to the program. Held over two days, the tours gave participants a unique opportunity to visit local farming operations and see firsthand the diversity, innovation and technology involved in modern agriculture. Visits included Skybury Farms to learn about papaya production and packing, a lemon myrtle processing facility at Paddy’s Green, and Piñata Farms to observe pineapple planting. The second day showcased the Mareeba-Dimbulah Irrigation Scheme and its modernisation, automated spraying technology at Rocky Creek Orchards, and packing operations at Rock Ridge Farming. These tours provided valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing while highlighting the dedication of local growers and the importance of agriculture to our regional economy.
The inaugural Ag & Innovation Precinct was an important achievement for FNQ Growers and demonstrated the value of bringing industry, government, researchers and the wider community together in one location. It strengthened relationships, encouraged meaningful conversations and provided growers with greater access to information, technology and industry support. FNQ Growers sincerely thanks the Rotary Clubs of Mareeba and Atherton, our sponsors, participating farmers, speakers, exhibitors, industry organisations and everyone who contributed to making the initiative possible. We look forward to building on the success of the inaugural Ag & Innovation Precinct at the 2027 Rotary FNQ Field Days, continuing to promote innovation, industry collaboration and a strong, sustainable future for agriculture in Far North Queensland.
We look forward to seeing you again in 2027!
