What’s Happening?
CQUniversity is celebrating 10 years of its Institute for Future Farming Systems (IFFS), a globally recognised hub for agricultural research and innovation. Based across Rockhampton, Bundaberg and Emerald, the Institute has built a strong reputation in six specialised fields, including Precision Horticulture, Livestock Management and Agricultural Microbiology.
Why It Matters
IFFS has become a central force in shaping sustainable agriculture locally and globally. Its work has led to increased productivity for farmers, expanded Australia’s research footprint internationally, and encouraged new generations to explore agriculture careers.
CQUniversity’s Vice-President of Research, Professor Grant Stanley, shared his pride in the Institute’s achievements: “Over the past decade, we have witnessed external grant income increase by more than 100 per cent, and set up new partnerships with industry, universities and government agencies in Australia and across the globe,” he said.
He also explained that IFFS had expanded beyond its original scope. “The research focus of the Institute has also expanded from precision livestock and horticulture to also include high-value cropping, and education and extension work,” Professor Stanley said.
“The Institute’s research scope, projects and researcher development have established CQUniversity as a serious player in the agricultural research and engagement landscape.”
Local Impact
Researchers and students benefit from immediate access to one of Australia’s richest agricultural regions. “Rockhampton is known as Australia’s beef capital and the wider Central Queensland, Bundaberg and Wide Bay produces crops from fruit and vegetables to sugarcane and cotton,” Professor Stanley said.
“Nowhere else in Australia do researchers have such ready access to the range and size of industry partners that CQU has in its immediate footprint.”
This proximity has allowed CQUniversity to lead initiatives like the Hinkler AgTech Initiative. “Through the initiative the team helped to test and monitor the efficacy of agricultural technology on improving efficiencies and increasing productivity, directly benefiting farmers and the sector,” he added.
By the Numbers
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CQUniversity’s external grant income has increased by over 100% in the last decade.
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The Institute has established partnerships in Argentina, Indonesia, the Pacific Islands and the USA.
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IFFS research spans six targeted areas including Non-invasive Sensor Technologies and Agricultural Extension and Education.
Zoom In
The Institute’s “power of place” has played a major role in its success. With direct access to producers and government organisations, students and researchers can work on real-world problems in real time. This strong industry link has also helped CQU attract significant national and international projects, including efforts to improve beef supply chains in Indonesia and monitor poultry microbiomes.
Zoom Out
IFFS represents a broader push by Australian universities to embed research institutions within regional economies. Its success shows that decentralised models of innovation can drive both global collaboration and local impact. Its achievements support the national strategy for building sovereign capabilities in food production and agricultural sustainability.
What to Look For Next
With Professor Phil Brown now retired, the Institute is actively recruiting a new director. The role will shape IFFS’s next chapter—strengthening partnerships, enhancing research capabilities, and growing its global influence. Interested candidates can apply via the CQUniversity Careers page.
