Research project to grow food exports

Published Friday, 27 June, 2014 at 09:18 AM

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
The Honourable John McVeigh

A new $2.6 million research initiative between the Queensland Government and the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) will boost exports of the region’s best agriculture products.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry John McVeigh said the joint project with USQ would develop key agricultural industries to maximise export opportunities. 

“Agriculture is a key pillar of our economy and our strong plan for the sector aims to double production production by 2040,” Mr McVeigh said.

“The region’s potential to tap into export markets has never been greater with the development of Wellcamp Airport, due to open later this year, and the LNP’s commitment to the Toowoomba bypass.

“My Department and USQ will be analysing beef and horticultural supply chains to optimise transport links to international markets. We want to identify the most effective use of handling, storage and business facilities and efficiencies and ensure consistent product quality.”

The Facilitating Transformational Change in Queensland Agricultural Value Chains project will work closely with key businesses, government agencies and industry organisations to build relationships, to obtain market, logistical and financial data relevant to supply chain management.

“We want to ensure agriculture is efficient, innovative, resilient and profitable. Farmers in southern Queensland stand to benefit from a more effective value-chain and opportunities to move their produce quicker, both domestically and internationally,” Mr McVeigh said.

USQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas said the project would capitalise on the Institute for Agriculture and the Environment’s presence in the region as a key research centre.

“A primary focus of the Institute is to encourage and expand agricultural industries both in Australia and overseas,” Professor Thomas said.

[ENDS] 27 June 2014                       

Media Contact:

Minister McVeigh: Louise Gillis 0408 709 160      

USQ: Aidan Burke 0412 647 004