University of Queensland agriculture students recently journeyed throughout Central Queensland, visiting a dozen sustainably focused agricultural organisations.
The week-long trip was part of UQ Bachelor of Agricultural Science capstone course Sustainable Agricultural and Animal Systems, where students learn advanced concepts and practices used in the sustainable management of agriculture and animal systems.
Recent graduate Eloise Innes said the regional trip was a highlight of her degree.
“The trip was an incredible opportunity to explore how different producers are improving the longevity and sustainability of their businesses,” Ms Innes said.
“We were lucky enough to spend six days travelling through Central Queensland, visiting a range of operations across Monto, Biloela, Moura, Mundubbera and Gayndah.
“It covered everything from horticulture and grazing to cropping, silvopasture, and livestock production, and it was exciting to learn from such a diverse range of businesses, each with their own definition of success and approach to getting there.”
A particular highlight for Ms Innes was visiting Goondicum Pastoral Co., a 7,000-hectare cattle property near Monto, owned and operated by Robert and Nadia Campbell.
“As a student with a particular interest in the pastoral industry, I really enjoyed our stay on Rob and Nadia’s property,” she said.
“They’re very forward-thinking in their approach to pastoral production, giving back to both the beef industry and environment.
“They show how agricultural businesses can operate sustainably in sync with the environment, while being successful and profitable – utilising natural capital to build extra income.
“I also found our visit to BettaPork – a sustainable family pork farm – quite fascinating.
“Seeing their fully operational biogas plant in action was eye-opening, where they’re utilising new technologies to improve both profitability and animal welfare in a practical, sustainable way.”
Ms Innes said the trip really showed her how much there is to be gained from sharing ideas and adopting innovations across sectors.
“There’s so much to learn in agriculture – and it’s inspiring to see new ideas and innovations actually getting traction in the real world,” she said.
“I’ll certainly be taking learnings from this trip throughout my career – to not be afraid to explore new innovations and to keep learning as much as possible from industry innovators.”
Ms Innes would like to thank The University of Queensland — especially Shane Campbell, Angela Lees, Emma Putland and Trish O’Hara — for organising and supporting the trip, as well as each of the producers who welcomed students and so generously shared their knowledge and time.
Find out more about UQ’s Bachelor of Agricultural Science.
