What’s Happening?
The Rockhampton Region has marked a year of major milestones in its agriculture sector, highlighted at the annual Grow Rockhampton – Agricultural Leaders Lunch. Over the past 12 months, Rockhampton Regional Council, through Advance Rockhampton, has driven significant progress in agricultural investment, water infrastructure, and industry support.
Why it Matters
With initiatives like the Fitzroy Food Bowl, the region is leveraging its secure water resources and strategic location to boost the economy, create jobs, and support local farmers.
The support and development of agricultural operations are not only fortifying Rockhampton’s position on the eastern seaboard but also ensuring sustainable practices that meet environmental standards.
By the Numbers
- $850,000 secured for South Yaamba Irrigation Project planning
- 19 Irrigation Farm Plans funded to meet reef water quality requirements
- $1.2 million Making Water Work program progressing with two projects completed
- Mort & Co’s development at Gogango will create 500 construction jobs, 100 operational jobs, and inject $138.1 million into the economy
Zoom In
Key projects include Mort & Co’s 36,500-head feedlot and fertiliser facility in Gogango, benefiting from Advance Rockhampton’s Business Facilitation program.
According to Mort & Co CEO Stephen O’Brien, “The proposed development site at Gogango was perfect for our plans… [with] secure water supply, excellent transport connectivity, access to some of the country’s best cattle producers on the doorstep and a proactive economic development team in Advance Rockhampton.”
Zoom Out
Advance Rockhampton’s continued efforts, including its Investment Attraction Program and the Making Water Work initiative, underscore its commitment to diversifying and strengthening the region’s agricultural landscape.
Wade Clark, Economic Development Manager at Advance Rockhampton, expressed pride in the region’s progress, stating, “Developing new agricultural sectors is a long game, but it’s clear that Advance Rockhampton has made significant inroads over the last 12 months.”
Local Impact
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams reflected on the strong progress, affirming, “We have seen 12 months of big wins in the agriculture sector and expect even bigger things to come…my message is there is no better place than the Rockhampton Region.”
What to Look for Next
Further opportunities are available for both local landholders and potential investors to expand in the Fitzroy Food Bowl.