Published Thursday, 03 July, 2008 at 12:51 PM

Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation
The Honourable Andrew McNamara
Mt Panorama Grazing Property Nominated for Top Environment Award
Cattle and grain property Mt Panorama, near Rolleston in western Queensland, is in the running for one of Queensland’s top environment awards.
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Andrew McNamara today announced that Mt Panorama, managed by Howard Smith and family, is a finalist in the Rural Sustainability category of the Environmental Protection Agency Sustainable Industries Awards 2008.
“The Smith family have used integrated management practices to control a heavy infestation of parthenium weed,” Mr McNamara said.
“Biological control agents were used in preference to chemicals and seasonally clearing paddocks of stock enabled buffel grass to outgrow the parthenium weed.
“Fence placements were also utilised to give greater control of how grazing occurs - where, when and for how long.”
Mr McNamara said the finalists had been selected from more than 100 innovative entries from small business to large multi-million dollar companies, showcasing Queensland's diverse range of ‘sustainability champions’.
“We have visionary companies right here in Queensland that are committed to developing innovative products and practices that reduce consumption of fossil fuels water, waste and greenhouse gas emissions,” Mr McNamara said.
“The Queensland Government, through the EPA’s Sustainable Industries Awards, now in their third year, is committed to helping Queensland business and industry develop Smart State technologies that reduce environmental impacts.
“The record number of nominations this year highlights outstanding work of businesses adopting sustainable practices in a competitive market place," Mr McNamara said.
“Congratulations to the Smiths for their unique management of their property, including obtaining comprehensive mapping advice from Queensland Government departments to identify specific soil and land types before implementing the new farm model.”
The Rural Sustainability category, sponsored by Australian Country Choice is awarded to a primary producer for sustainable primary production and stewardship of the natural capital underpinning the business.
The EPA Sustainable Industries Awards aim to increase awareness of the advantages of sustainable practices such as reducing energy and water use, reducing waste and minimising greenhouse gas emissions.
Winners will be announced at a gala dinner at the Gold Coast Exhibition and Convention Centre on Friday, 31 October 2008.
For more information visit www.epa.qld.gov.au or contact the EPA Sustainable Industries Division on 3225 1999.
Media contact: Peter McCarthy 3336 8004
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Andrew McNamara today announced that Mt Panorama, managed by Howard Smith and family, is a finalist in the Rural Sustainability category of the Environmental Protection Agency Sustainable Industries Awards 2008.
“The Smith family have used integrated management practices to control a heavy infestation of parthenium weed,” Mr McNamara said.
“Biological control agents were used in preference to chemicals and seasonally clearing paddocks of stock enabled buffel grass to outgrow the parthenium weed.
“Fence placements were also utilised to give greater control of how grazing occurs - where, when and for how long.”
Mr McNamara said the finalists had been selected from more than 100 innovative entries from small business to large multi-million dollar companies, showcasing Queensland's diverse range of ‘sustainability champions’.
“We have visionary companies right here in Queensland that are committed to developing innovative products and practices that reduce consumption of fossil fuels water, waste and greenhouse gas emissions,” Mr McNamara said.
“The Queensland Government, through the EPA’s Sustainable Industries Awards, now in their third year, is committed to helping Queensland business and industry develop Smart State technologies that reduce environmental impacts.
“The record number of nominations this year highlights outstanding work of businesses adopting sustainable practices in a competitive market place," Mr McNamara said.
“Congratulations to the Smiths for their unique management of their property, including obtaining comprehensive mapping advice from Queensland Government departments to identify specific soil and land types before implementing the new farm model.”
The Rural Sustainability category, sponsored by Australian Country Choice is awarded to a primary producer for sustainable primary production and stewardship of the natural capital underpinning the business.
The EPA Sustainable Industries Awards aim to increase awareness of the advantages of sustainable practices such as reducing energy and water use, reducing waste and minimising greenhouse gas emissions.
Winners will be announced at a gala dinner at the Gold Coast Exhibition and Convention Centre on Friday, 31 October 2008.
For more information visit www.epa.qld.gov.au or contact the EPA Sustainable Industries Division on 3225 1999.
Media contact: Peter McCarthy 3336 8004