The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and industry members are celebrating Queensland’s integral role in Australia’s agricultural story as part of National Agriculture Day, today, 21 November 2018.
National Agriculture Day is a chance for all Australians to reflect on the pivotal role agriculture has played in the country’s history, by celebrating its successes and resolving to work towards its bright future.
QFF President Stuart Armitage said Queenslanders had a lot to celebrate on National Agriculture Day, with the state’s farmers producing the highest quality food, fibre and foliage.
“Queensland farmers account for about 24 per cent of Australia’s overall production value, making it the number one agricultural state in the country,” Mr Armitage said.
“The diversity of what we grow in Queensland is also second to none and our 24,200 farm businesses provide environmental services and land stewardship on more hectares than any other state – about 84 per cent of our total land area.”
“The sector is worth almost $20 billion and represents 15 per cent of Queensland’s total exports. Agriculture bridges the city-country divide, employing over 300,000 Queenslanders across the whole food supply chain and is a key pillar of regional and metropolitan economies.”
Mr Armitage said National Agriculture Day provided an opportunity to not only celebrate, but also educate the public about the critical role farmers play in feeding, clothing and providing amenity for all Queenslanders, other Australians and people in other countries.
“While our farmers and rural communities are tough, they have faced several challenges this year with damaging storms, a protracted drought and food tampering issues,” Mr Armitage said.
“Buying local produce and paying a fair price for it is the best way Queensland consumers can support the agricultural sector. By doing so, they will continue to play an active role in helping to build more resilient farming businesses and ensure a bright future for Queensland agriculture.”
For a national breakdown of Australian agriculture’s worth and value visit: www.agday.org.au.
