New AgTech Hub to drive innovation and jobs in agriculture

The new Bundaberg AgTech Hub is set to unlock the enormous potential of agricultural technology across the region and enable local farmers to explore the latest innovations.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner officially launched the Bundaberg Regional Council’s

AgTech Hub today at Bargara.

“The adoption of AgTech by producers is key to the future profitability and sustainability of Queensland’s agricultural supply chain,” Mr Furner said.

“The regional AgTech Hub will strengthen the state’s $18.5 billion agricultural sector and align with the Queensland Government’s commitment to accelerate the adoption of digital solutions across industries.

“Agriculture is a critical part of Queensland’s Economic Recovery Plan and investments like these will help it go from strength to strength.”

Mr Furner said agribusinesses in the Bundaberg region will now have access to emerging technology and services at the early stages of commercial release.

“CQUniversity is using the hub as a base to attract tech companies to the region and trial cutting edge agricultural technologies, including advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, block chain, and traceability systems with producers and their supply chain partners,” Mr Furner said.

Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Jack Dempsey said the area was home to uniquely diverse agricultural production.

“This lends itself to the development of AgTech across many fronts and we must be at the forefront of the AgTech revolution,” Mayor Jack Dempsey said.

“There is so much opportunity in agriculture for data collection and precision farming going forward that it could open up a whole new world.

“It’s an excellent opportunity for our local producers and the wider industry and we want to be driving it.

“In recognition of that, Bundaberg Regional Council has re-purposed our former administration building at Bargara specifically to provide a nexus for a nationally and globally significant regional Agtech ecosystem. 

“Bundaberg Regional Council is appreciative of the support we have received from all levels of government for this AgTech facility including the CQUniversity’s Hinkler AgTech initiative.”    

Mr Furner congratulated Bundaberg Regional Council on the Bundaberg AgTech Hub, which received seed funding and support from the Queensland Government.

“The future is looking bright, with the state’s AgTech sector ready to respond and support agribusiness to address their challenges and embrace new opportunities,” he said.

For information about AgTech in Queensland, visit www.daf.qld.gov.au/agtech.

ENDS

Media contact:           Ron Goodman            0427 781 920