Agriculture in Southern

Agriculture in Southern Queensland

Table of Contents

Overview 2

Purpose 4

Transport and Logistics 5

Regional Capabilities 6

Beef 7

Grains 8

Cotton 9

Horticulture 10

Poultry and Eggs 11

Pork 12

Sheep and Wool 13

Dairy 14

Goats 14

Honey 15

Aquaculture 15

Produce Harvest Calendar 16

Agriculture in Southern Queensland Overview

Queensland’s agricultural industry is a major Regional Capabilities contributor to the state’s economy. For 2015- The supports a diverse range of agricultural products and 16, the gross value of production of primary processing capabilities. Climate, soils and access to water enables production to occur all year suited to local conditions. industry commodities at the farm Production capabilities are closely aligned with access to gate was worth an estimated $13.74 billion. exceptional support services provided by agribusiness and industry The first stage processing was worth $3.58 organisations. billion. Queensland accounted for 24% of Research and development into genetics, production systems, ’s agricultural production by value climate and technology are world class. The region is a hub for trials and innovation from both the research sector as well as private in 2015-16. agribusiness. Capabilities are supported through government departments and industry programs to develop and extend Agriculture in Southern Queensland initiatives for continual improvement and growth. Southern Queensland is an agricultural powerhouse, injecting over Industry standards are generally exceeded across production $3.74 billion into Queensland’s economy in 2015-16. systems, particularly for animal welfare, food safety and The area of Southern Queensland used for agriculture is 31.5 million environmental stewardship. hectares, representing 24% of Queensland’s agricultural area. Some of the largest producers across several industries are located There are 4,857 agricultural businesses in Southern Queensland in Southern Queensland. Significant volumes of produce throughput representing 26% of all Queensland agricultural businesses. are supported by highly capable processing facilities. Despite climatic fluctuations, agriculture shows continued strong growth in Southern Queensland. Significant investment in transport and processing infrastructure projects in the region shows confidence in local production capabilities to meet increasing domestic and global demand.

2 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Production environment Opportunities Southern Queensland embraces a diverse range of soils, climate types As the world population grows, demand for food will increase and landscapes enabling production of a wide range of agricultural significantly, particularly for fresh and convenience foods, and foods products throughout the year. with added nutritional and health benefits. Its climate supports the production of both temperate and sub- Southern Queensland’s ability to produce a diverse range of products tropical crops at times of the year that fill the supply gaps from other and its proximity to key infrastructure, including ports and airports, domestic and international production areas. A production calendar sets it apart from other Australian agricultural areas. is included in Appendix 1. The region’s capability is backed by a skilled workforce, with a strong The production of high value crops is secured through irrigation from focus on improving productivity through agricultural research and ground and surface water supplies. The Southern Queensland region innovation. is covered by the Lake Eyre Basin and northern Murray-Darling Basin. It boasts high quality cropping areas for broadacre grains and pulses as The major tributaries are , Paroo, Warrego, Condamine- well as cotton and intensive horticulture. Livestock industries including Balonne, Moonie and Border Rivers. The Bulloo catchment is an beef and dairy cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry and goats, are value added internally draining system located between the Lake Eyre and Murray by significant feedlot, abattoir and processing facilities. Wool, milk, Darling Basins. Groundwater is sourced from the Great Artesian Basin eggs, honey, timber and aquaculture are also significant industries in supplying both stock and domestic as well as irrigation licenses. the region. The region features large deposits of rich black vertosol soils Southern Queensland is well positioned to supply high quality food supporting irrigated and dryland crops as well as productive grazing and fibre products and technology to new and emerging global areas. The wide-ranging soil types provide for mixed farming markets and is an attractive investment destination. opportunities and are optimized through suitability of production systems. INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.daf.qld.gov.au

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 3 Purpose

The purpose of this document is to showcase agricultural production and processing capability in Southern Queensland. The following synopsis outlines the capabilities of key industries, including their potential to supply domestic and international markets as well as investment opportunities in agriculture in the region. The document is aimed at potential Queensland customers, both international and domestic, seeking an understanding of the diverse range of food and fibre products produced in Southern Queensland, and investors who may wish to invest in these industries. Statistics are quoted from the Australian Southern Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Statistics on farming enterprises from 2015-16 onwards Queensland exclude those with an estimated value of agricultural operations under $40,000 per annum. www.abs.gov.au

Southern Blackall Rolleston Biloela N

Queensland Tambo

Augathella

QUILPIE SHIRE Morven Charleville Roma Quilpie MURWEH SHIRE Eromanga Miles Chinchilla Caloundra Surat Oakey Redcli e Moonie TOOWOOMBA REGION St George Warwick Gold REGION SOUTHERN Coast PAROO SHIRE BULLOO SHIRE BALONNE REGION DOWNS REGION Goondiwindi Stanthorpe Hungerford Lismore

4 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Transport and Logistics

The connectivity and proximity Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport The Hub is positioned to connect the productive food of Southern Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport, located 27 of Southern Queensland to Queensland to international markets. major transport corridors kilometres west of Toowoomba, connects to the world. It is provides access to national and a privately owned public airport designed Brisbane Airport international export networks. to cater for large aircraft up to 747 sizes. Air cargo from Brisbane Airport reached Significant growth opportunities Wellcamp has regular domestic passenger 66,865 tonnes in exported goods in 2015-16. for agriculture production services and charter flights, including direct Increasing quantities of fresh produce are flights to Sydney, Melbourne and . now exported by airfreight including meat, and processing in the region Wellcamp Airport is opening new business fruit and vegetables. are being realised through opportunities in Southern Queensland by development of transport connecting one of Australia’s most valuable Port of Brisbane connections. food producing regions with markets in The Port of Brisbane is Queensland’s largest and the Middle East. general cargo port, handling more than a Road Network Weekly freight flights into Hong Kong take million shipping containers annually. There fresh local produce to growing Asian markets, are 31 operating berths, with eight dedicated A number of national highways pass through including beef, pork, grains and pulses, with to containers. Additionally, there are upriver and intersect within Southern Queensland, immediate plans for fresh milk. berths capable of handling wet and dry bulk providing a direct pathway to ports and Agricultural trade development and commodities and general cargo. capital cities. The Toowoomba Second Range international cargo exports have been key The Brisbane Multimodal Terminal is the Crossing is a major project that will reduce considerations in the design of the world interface between rail, road and the container travel time by up to 40 minutes by avoiding class airport, particularly in relation to terminals at the port. The integration of the Toowoomba City area, reducing freight livestock and multi user perishable handling. these transport modes, a dual-gauge rail link, costs to benefit industries. and the location of this facility behind the Toowoomba Enterprise Hub container terminals, enable the movement of Rail Network large volumes of interstate and international The Toowoomba Enterprise Hub is a significant In Southern Queensland, the rail network cargo into and out of the port by rail. transport, logistics and business hub that transports containerised freight, bulk grain brings air, road and rail connectivity in one and cotton to the Port of Brisbane for export. strategic location west of Toowoomba. Imminent upgrades to rail tunnels along the INDUSTRY INFORMATION Toowoomba range will allow for the transport The Hub has direct access to the four www.infrastructure.gov.au of ‘Hi Cube’ containers to the Port of Brisbane. major highways and is located alongside Toowoomba’s Second Range Crossing and the The Inland Rail project is a key national project proposed Inland Rail route. The 2000 hectare linking the Port of Melbourne and the Port of area houses multiple warehousing, logistics Brisbane by rail, via central-west New South terminals and manufacturing facilities, along Wales and Toowoomba. Upon completion, with quarantine and custom facilities proposed the project will enhance the existing national for the site. rail network, decrease the volume of heavy vehicles on national highways and separate freight from passenger rail.

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 5 Regional Capabilities

The region’s agricultural Education, Skills and Technology capabilities and growth Workforce Technology is being increasingly incorporated potential is supported by The University of Southern Queensland into standard agricultural business practice. Industry, business and research collaborations a suite of infrastructure, a offers a strong agricultural and agribusiness program. By working with industry, their in the region are addressing complex skilled workforce, research research is accelerating access to smarter, challenges for agricultural production and education institutions, technology-based ways of increasing systems using innovative solutions with innovations and technology, productivity and overcoming environmental global application. Southern Queensland is known as the and agribusinesses. challenges. The University of Southern Queensland national hub for Precision Agriculture with dedicated local businesses working Infrastructure boasts world leading climate and seasonal forecasting capacity through its new with industry on leading technology, Grain storage capacity is rapidly growing in ‘Queensland Drought Mitigation Centre’. manufacturing and distribution. response to increased grain demand for the The Centre’s focus is to support producers to World leading innovations in technology rapidly expanding intensive animal industries improve their risk management and planning applications and data processing are assisting as well as export. Southern Queensland has for climate extremes implications for regions interpretation of information and responsive numerous large grain storage facilities and and commodities produced in those regions. management to improve yield and resource transport network, with on farm storage The University of Queensland’s Gatton use in real time. capacity also increasing. Campus also provides research and training Local businesses specialising in new products Two of the largest cattle selling centres in across natural resources, agricultural and and services are driving national agricultural Australia are in Southern Queensland (Roma veterinary sciences. efficiencies and production gains, with and Dalby) with more than 550,000 cattle sold Queensland Agricultural Training Colleges export potential and demand for knowledge, through these facilities annually. are developing agricultural industry products and services. Australia’s largest wind farm, Coopers Gap expertise and facilitating successful careers Wind Farm, is being built in the region, in agriculture. The Dalby campus is a hub Communications consisting of 123 wind turbines that will in the region and provides training options Roll-out of the National Broadband Network generate 1.5 million megawatts per hour of for livestock and crop production based and increasing mobile and internet coverage is renewable energy. Many farms and private operations. changing the global connectivity of producers facilities are building solar and renewable Leading farmers engage highly skilled with increasing use of drones, remote energy capabilities. specialists in cropping agronomy, animal management, mapping and cloud based Furthermore, due to increased connectivity husbandry, nutrition, and resource and solutions to lift productivity and profitability. in Southern Queensland, several local environmental management. The solutions are becoming part of the councils are developing projects to capitalise The skilled workforce is seasonally enhanced essential infrastructure for business with on forthcoming opportunities. Projects with itinerant workers through programs export potential from the innovative solutions included intermodal hubs, expansion of such as the Harvest Trail to meet peak labour being implemented locally. water infrastructure, utilisation of waste water demands. from urban areas and alternative land usage research for more sustainable and profitable REGIONAL INFORMATION industries. www.rda-ddsw.org.au

6 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Beef

Beef production in Southern Queensland 2.47 MILLION HEAD 3,686 CATTLE BUSINESSES

59.4% INCREASE $1.4 billion Gross value Gross Gross value value Gross $715.3 million

2009-10 2015-16

Current Industry Snapshot Value Chains Markets and Growth Beef production is Queensland’s largest Southern Queensland hosts the largest cattle There are a number of emerging high-value primary industry, worth an estimated $5.86 selling centre in Australia at Roma, typically markets such as Saudi Arabia, the United billion in 2015-16, contributing 45% of the drawing cattle from Southern and Western Arab Emirates and Qatar that are increasingly national total. Queensland, Northern and doing business in Southern Queensland. With over 2.47 million head, Southern the Northern Territory. In 2015-16, 335,667 Beef produced and processed in Southern Queensland contains approximately 24% of cattle were sold through the Roma yards, with Queensland is increasingly being favoured by the state’s cattle. Dalby coming in second at 231,764. these lucrative markets. The Southern Queensland region has Free trade agreements with China, Japan and Beef Production three large export certified abattoirs and South Korea have the potential to reduce There are a mixture of grazing and lot-feeding several smaller export certified abattoirs. tariffs, making Australian products more production enterprises operating in Southern Additionally, there are abattoirs processing competitive. Queensland. In 2015-16, there were 3,686 beef solely for the domestic market. Southern With growing demand for consistent high- cattle businesses in the region. Queensland processing facilities meet the quality meats, many of the cattle feedlots are highest safety and quality standards, as Southern Queensland has one of the highest increasing their capacities so producers can Australian Food Safety Laws demand, with concentrations of feedlots in Australia, due finish their animals to a consistent standard third party auditing and accreditation. to reliable access to water, grain and fodder. prior to slaughter. There are 170 registered cattle feedlots, with There are a small number of food Southern Queensland’s beef processors an operating capacity of 914,111 Standard manufacturers producing beef products in are increasing their capacity to meet the Cattle Units (SCU), located in Southern the area. Beef leg bones and other lower production demand of new export markets. grade beef cuts are processed into ‘stock’ Queensland (1 SCU is equivalent to a 600kg Demand for organic beef continues to grow and exported to Korea, China and the United live beast). as domestic and international consumers States of America. Other food products favour organic products from specific origins. manufactured in Southern Queensland includes beef jerky and beef smallgoods. The Toowoomba Wellcamp airport has Furthermore, local cattle stud breeders, from opened significant new chilled and frozen a range of breeds, supply domestically and beef exports to Asian markets. export large amounts of semen to boost international herd genetics. INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.mla.com.au

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 7 Grains

Grain production in Southern Queensland

2.5 million tonne of cereals and 541,890 tonne of non-cereal crops in 2015-16 1.34 MILLION HECTARES GRAIN CROPS

BROADACRE 3,449 CROPPING BUSINESSES

35% INCREASE $1.089 billion Gross value Gross Gross value value Gross $805.2 million

2009-10 2015-16

Current Industry Snapshot Value Chains Markets and Growth Worth $1.3 billion in 2015-16, Queensland’s Hay production in 2015-16 was valued at There is a strong growing demand for organic broadacre cropping industry is the third largest $55.6 million in Southern Queensland. and specialty grains largely for human in Australia. Cereals were worth $862 million, High-protein milling wheat and malt barley consumption, but also for organic intensive pulses and other crops $450 million in 2015-16. are used by value-add processors. Remaining animal industries. One of the biggest barriers Southern Queensland contributed $1.089 bulk produce is exported to international to expansion of organic animal businesses is billion from cereal and non-cereal grain crops markets in India, Pakistan, the Middle East, the availability of organic feed grain. in 2015-16. South-East Asia and . The majority of chickpeas are exported to Oilseeds such as sunflowers are grown under India and 95% of mungbeans are exported Grain Production contracts and processed outside Southern to Asia. Major crops grown in Southern Queensland Queensland. The majority of canola oil is There is growing demand for pulse and in order of area sown are wheat, sorghum, exported whilst sunflower oil is mainly used high value grain crops internationally in chickpeas, barley, mungbeans, oats, maize, domestically. the Middle East, such as the United Arab fababeans and sunflowers. Maize is grown specifically for contracts, like Emirates, and also Asia. Demand for these Southern Queensland accounted for Kellogg’s. While a proportion of grain product grain commodities is a result of free trade more than 90% of the state’s total wheat is used in domestic milling, growers and agreements and shortage in supply of grains production and 82% of chickpeas harvested traders are targeting the premium flour and required for international markets. There in 2015-16. noodle markets of the United Arab Emirates is an opportunity to value add to current processed grains with a specific focus on The industry is largely rain-fed resulting in and Asia. edible and specialty grains for human variable production from year to year. The Numerous commercial baking operations consumption. area planted and subsequent yields are linked in Southern Queensland produce cakes, closely to seasonal conditions and available puddings, biscuits and specialty desserts New technologies have been developed soil moisture. for domestic and export markets. Milling for ‘popping’ grains to extend their product reach in breakfast cereals, snack products Dual purpose crops or dry seasonal enterprises produce a range of specialty and muesli bars. New consumer packaging conditions influence the extent of areas flours and mixes, including organic and with ‘ready-to-eat’ grain products and grain where hay is made, which may be dedicated gluten free products. ingredients have also been developed. to grain.

INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.graingrowers.com.au www.pulseaus.com.au

8 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Cotton

Cotton production in Southern Queensland

MILLION BALES OF COTTON PRODUCED 1.24 2016-17 263 COTTON FARMS 194,775 HECTARES OF COTTON GROWN 2016-17

153% INCREASE

Gross value value Gross $292.4 million from bales production and seed * $740.6 million Gross value Gross

2009-10 2016-17

Current Industry Snapshot Value Chains Markets and Growth Queensland produced 1.45 million bales There are seven cotton gins operating Almost all of Australia’s raw cotton is exported of cotton, valued at $741 million* and throughout Southern Queensland, each to spinning mills in China, Indonesia, Thailand, represents 37% of the Australian cotton equipped with state of the art computerised Japan, Korea, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. industry. process control equipment and gin Depending on market conditions, cotton seed In 2016-17, Southern Queensland produced production data. All gins process round and is either predominantly consumed by livestock 1.24 million bales of cotton valued at $634 rectangular modules. or for oil domestically or exported to Japan, million. 323,225 tonnes of cotton seed were Cotton is classed to international standards Korea, China or the United States of America. produced valued at $106.6 million. 85% of based on colour, staple length and fibre Cutting edge research and development Queensland’s cotton is produced in Southern strength. Lint from Southern Queensland technology and management continually Queensland. is some of the highest quality in the world improves the performance and practice of and usually sells for a premium price to growing, picking, transporting and marketing Cotton Production international markets. The main export cotton. market is South East Asia, particularly Cotton is grown during summer where Industry programs and grower led initiatives spinning mills in China. rainfall provides crops with a significant are constantly improving water use efficiency, amount of water and replenishes irrigation Cotton seed represents 50% of ginned chemical use, soils and biodiversity, whilst sources. Approximately 57% of the cotton cotton’s weight. increasing yield and profitability. New area in Southern Queensland supplements Cotton seed oil is cholesterol free and used varieties have led the expansion of cotton, crops with irrigation. for deep frying and a range of beauty and both dryland and irrigated, particularly in the Yield can reach over 12 bales/hectare and other products. The meal is used for stock cooler areas of southern New South Wales. is increasing with technology and variety feed as it is high in protein. Opportunities for further collaboration improvements, making it the highest exist to share local industry knowledge performing cotton globally. Australia is also and expertise to improve global cotton a world leader in environmental stewardship production standards.* and sustainability.

*Source: Cotton Australia, Australian production forecast May 2010 and July 2017.

INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.cottonaustralia.com.au

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 9 Horticulture

Horticulture production in Southern Queensland 6,505 HECTARES OF HORTICULTURE

HORTICULTURE 253 BUSINESSES

26% INCREASE

Gross value value Gross $238.2 million $301 million Gross value Gross

2009-10 2015-16

Current Industry Snapshot Value Chains Markets and Growth Queensland’s vegetable and fruit production Several on-farm processing facilities operate The majority of Southern Queensland’s fruit is the largest in Australia, contributing $2.7 in Southern Queensland, producing shelf and vegetable production is consumed billion to the national value of $10.4 billion ready products for food service, retail and domestically. However, supply chains have in 2015-16. export markets. shortened, allowing for growth in export of Horticulture production in Southern A nut processing plant utilises local edible fresh produce to international food halls, fast Queensland was worth $301 million in nuts, as well as pecans, walnuts, macadamias food outlets and supermarkets directly via 2015-16. and almonds for domestic retail, wholesale airfreight. Exports include Japan, China, and export markets, which include China, New Zealand, Middle East, Singapore and Horticulture Production Japan, Korea, Taiwan and the Middle East. Hong Kong. Growing the Southern Queensland’s Due to varying seasonal windows and Olives, olive oil, wine and vinegar production horticultural industry to supply international connectivity to surrounding regions, the local are niche enterprises operating in Southern markets is the greatest opportunity. Typically, horticultural industry has the capability to Queensland currently supplying domestic the export market for horticultural produce produce many fruit and vegetable varieties all markets only. has been focused on the Asia-Pacific; however year around. A broad range of different seedlings are other countries are importing fresh produce supplied to local and interstate horticulture The region’s substantial produce includes a on a regular basis and looking to Southern production areas. One major seedling wide range of vegetables, apple and stone Queensland as a potential supplier. fruit orchards, nuts, wine and table grapes, producer grows millions of tomato, lettuce Horticultural produce is generally accepted berries, mushrooms, herbs and medicinal and capsicum seedlings, for example, that as being healthy and the consumption of plants. Smaller industries include cut flowers, are then distributed for final production in functional foods is one of the fastest growing nurseries and turf production. other areas. global food trends to supply locally. Notably, Southern Queensland grows all Consumers demand more convenience Industries are also working towards of Queensland’s apples representing 12% in foods, a trend likely to continue, that developing new products while reducing of Australia’s production apple trees. Over Southern Queensland’s horticultural waste in the supply chain, with innovative 40% of Queensland’s vineyards are in the producers currently supply. The majority by-products continuously being trialled and region. Grown exclusively in the of ready-to-eat salad lines are grown in offered to market by the horticulture sector. is the Queen Garnet plum, selected for its Southern Queensland. With new technology, significant health benefits. processors are extending the range and volume of fresh-cut products. INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.growcom.com.au

10 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Poultry and Eggs

Poultry and Egg production in Southern Queensland

785,800 LIVE MEAT CHICKENS

MILLION DOZEN EGGS PRODUCED 78.6 ANNUALLY BY 3.6 MILLION LAYING CHICKENS

1508% INCREASE [ POULTRY ]

85% INCREASE

[ EGGS ] $176 million Gross value Gross $119 million Gross value Gross Gross value value Gross $94.7 million Gross value value Gross $7.4 million

[ POULTRY [ EGGS ] [ POULTRY [ EGGS ] MEAT ] MEAT ] 2009-10 2015-16

Current Industry Snapshot Value Chains Markets and Growth The Queensland poultry meat industry was The domestic market consumes the majority Southern Queensland is experiencing strong worth an estimated $590 million and egg of production from the poultry industry with growth in both the chicken meat and egg production an estimated $210 million in only a small percentage currently exported. industries. This is a result of affordability of 2015-16. However, the opportunity for export is chicken meat compared to red meats such as growing, especially in key market segments beef and lamb. Poultry Production like organic free range processed birds to Asia. There has been an increase in consumer Southern Queensland’s chicken meat Expansion in meat chicken production demand for eggs sourced from free range industry was worth an estimated $119 million is expected to rise with industry trends farms that has resulted in an expansion of the in 2015-16. indicating that consumption has increased egg industry. This trend has also flowed on to The poultry meat industry is predominantly over the last five years. Australians have the food service industry. chicken, however there is increasing interest become the largest chicken meat consumers Industry market analysis indicates that there in turkey and duck, and quail and gamebirds. in the world. is a steady growth in organic chicken meat There are two major poultry meat processing The current national consumption of eggs and eggs. Often considered a premium facilities in Queensland. All meat chicken has risen with an increased demand for product, the limiting factor for growth in the farms are within a three-hour drive from barn laid and free-range eggs. Broken eggs organic poultry market is a lack of available these processors, for animal welfare purposes. are processed and used mainly within the organic grain. A smaller organic chicken meat producer with food services industry. Layer hens are often There is also an opportunity to explore other a meat processing facility is also operating in slaughtered for meat products at the end of markets with increased interest in developing the area. their laying cycle although there has been an a processor east of the . increased interest in using spent hens in Egg Production bio-digesters to create electricity. INDUSTRY INFORMATION Over 80% of Queensland’s total egg www.chicken.org.au production is produced in Southern www.aecl.org Queensland, worth $176 million in 2015-16. The eggs produced are from caged, barn laid and free-range birds.

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 11 Pork

Pork production in Southern Queensland 429,445 LIVE PIGS AT APRIL 2017

REGISTERED 120 PIGGERIES

62% INCREASE

$ 204.1 million Gross value Gross Gross value value Gross $125.5 million

2009-10 2015-16

Current Industry Snapshot Value Chains Markets and Growth Queensland is Australia’s second largest pork Most pigs produced in the region are The pig farming industry has experienced producing state in value, worth $320 million slaughtered and processed at an abattoir strong growth, with operators benefiting in 2015-16, and 24% of pig production. at Kingaroy. This abattoir has export from increasing pork consumption on the Southern Queensland accounts for 62% of accreditation and recent upgrades increased back of rising beef prices and industry Queensland’s total pork production, worth capability to process 30,000 pigs per week. marketing campaigns. $204.1 million in 2015-16. In 2015-16, 356,032 pigs were slaughtered in There is potential for significant growth in the Southern Queensland. Pork is processed in pork industry in Southern Queensland due to Pork Production cuts at the abattoir, packaged fresh or frozen proximity to a major grain production area, Over 90% of pigs grown adhere to the or vacuum sealed and delivered to sellers. proximity to ports and growing interest from industry’s quality assurance program, APIQ®. It is also sold to butchers and small goods export markets. Approximately 120 registered piggeries, with producers. In addition to pork exports, there are a registered operational capacity of about The majority of pork produced in the region opportunities for the export of genetics and 694,642 standard pig units (SPU) are located is consumed domestically. There is increased offal. Australian Pork Limited (the industry in Southern Queensland (1 SPU = 24-55kg domestic demand for pork above beef and group) is proactively working with various live animal). lamb due to their high prices. Asian export markets, to gain better access Pig production is located close to grain Australia is a net importer of pig meat. In for all pork products, including different cuts growing areas. The Darling Downs has 56% of 2015, Australia exported 41,000 tonnes of of meat. There are also opportunities in Asia the state’s total pig herd. pig meat and imported 335,000 tonnes. for new niche pork products. The cost of feed, especially grain, impacts on Australia’s largest export markets for pig meat The Australian pork industry is currently profitability of pork production, with pig price are Singapore, Hong Kong, Germany, Papua working with local processors and producers influenced by supply and demand, including New Guinea and Belgium. in creating a range of new products for these imports and exports. export markets.

INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.australianpork.com.au

12 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Sheep and Wool

Sheep and Wool production in Southern Queensland

1.29 MILLION SHEEP 2015-16 779 SHEEP BUSINESSES

90% 38% INCREASE INCREASE [ SHEEP & LAMB ] [ WOOL ]

$44.3 million Gross value value Gross Gross value value Gross $39.2 million $38.3 million Gross value Gross Gross value value Gross $20.1 million

[ SHEEP [ WOOL ] [ SHEEP [ WOOL ] & LAMB ] & LAMB ] 2009-10 2015-16

Current Industry Snapshot Value Chains Markets and Growth The value of sheep meat production in There are five sheep processing abattoirs in the Australia is the world largest exporter of sheep Queensland was $58 million, and wool $62 region mainly for the domestic market and one meat, and second largest producer of lamb and million in 2015-16. with export accreditation. mutton. Southern Queensland accounted for 46% Australians ate around 10 kilograms of sheep In 2015-16, Australia exported 56% of total of the sheep production and 50% of wool meat per person in 2015-16, which is among Australian lamb production and 91% of total production in Queensland. Wool was valued at the highest consumption in the world. Australian mutton production. $44.3 million and slaughtered sheep and lambs Wool produced in Southern Queensland is Current markets for sheep meat are split almost were worth $38.3 million in 2015-16. considered very high quality. At 19 microns or 50:50 between domestic and international. Sheep and Wool Production less, this wool is ideal for the production of fine However, international consumption is quality cloth and fine wool garments. growing, with demand being driven by the The sheep industry is principally located in United States of America, the Middle East and south west Queensland. Despite strong sheep and wool prices and quality advantages, producers in the region emerging markets in Asia. Sheep meat production is mostly from large largely destocked in response to drought in Proximity to grain production areas, ports and scale grazing operations. However, there recent years and impact of wild dogs. Extensive breeding flocks in make are two sheep feedlots located in Southern pest fencing in the region is attempting to Southern Queensland an ideal location for Queensland with a capacity of 18,000 standard contain and manage wild dog populations. lamb and sheep feedlot enterprises. sheep units (SSU) (SSU = 55-60kg beast). Industry investment in innovations and new 779 establishments hold 1.2 million sheep technologies is focusing on alternative wool in the region. harvesting technology to improve quality and INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.mla.com.au The industry is improving efficiencies through handling. new information and technologies. The priority www.wool.com areas are pest animal management, health/ nutrition and business performance.

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 13 Dairy

The Queensland milk industry was worth $236 million at Milk production in the farm gate in 2015-16. After processing for drinking Southern Queensland milk and manufactured products this value increases to over $1 billion per year. The gross value of Southern Queensland milk production was $72 million in 2015-16. A third of the 46,420 Queensland Dairy Herd is in Southern Queensland with DAIRY CATTLE 2015-16 just over 46,000 head in 2015-16. Southern Queensland dairy operations are all family owned and operated. Milk from the region is processed in northern New South Wales and Brisbane and is mostly consumed in the domestic market. There are a number of goat dairies located in Southern Queensland, including Australia’s largest. Goat milk is naturally lactose free, with products being highly sought after in the form of milk, products and chemical 191 free cosmetics. DAIRY FARMERS There is increasing international demand for Australian fresh milk and a variety of dairy by-products which is driving the expansion of Southern Queensland’s 20% DECREASE capability. Southern Queensland is an ideal location for an expanded dairy industry due to its proximity to feed

supplies, markets and ports. The Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport has opened the opportunity for a multi-million dollar factory at Toowoomba with potential to export Gross value value Gross $90.8 million Gross value Gross $72 million up to 300,000 litres of fresh milk to China every day.

2009-10 2015-16 INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.dairyaustralia.com.au

Goats Australia is the world’s largest goat meat and live Goat production in goat exporter. The goat meat industry was worth Southern Queensland $40.5 million in Southern Queensland in 2015-16, representing 81% of the Queensland market. Goats are sourced from wild harvest as well as managed herds. Southern Queensland has some of Queensland’s largest goat studs breeding 89,200 African meat goats, such as Boer and Kalahari Red, MANAGED GOATS 2015-16 supplying quality breeding stock for domestic and export markets. Australia’s largest specialised goat abattoir is in Charleville, processing 660,000 head of halal certified meat annually. Goat meat is predominantly 139 exported to the United States of America, Europe, GOAT Canada, Asia and the Middle East, with a small BUSINESSES domestic demand. More livestock producers are farming goats rather than wild harvesting due to improved farmgate returns and the need to tighten supply to meet an increase in both domestic and export demand.

Consumption of goat meat is increasing as a preferred meat and as new emerging economies have more ability to pay for Australian goat meat, $40.5 million Gross value Gross aided by free trade agreements.

INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.gica.com.au 2015-16

14 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Honey

The Australian honey bee industry had a production value Honey production of $98.8 million in 2015-16. In Queensland, the value of in Queensland honey is worth $35 million annually. Over $5 million in honey products is exported, principally to Canada, Hong Kong and China. Australia is a net exporter of honey, with significant amounts of honey imported from China. Whilst honey is the primary commercial output, bees 8,600 wax, queen and packaged bees, and propolis add to the HIVES IN SOUTHERN industry’s income. Pollination services contribute significant QUEENSLAND 2015-16 value to agriculture and are important to wild flora. Apiculture has a long history in Southern Queensland, with both organic and conventional honey and beeswax products produced locally. Queensland’s largest honey 34 operation is located on the Darling Downs and has up to BEEKEEPERS 4,000 bee colonies and 10,000 nucleus hives. One local IN SOUTHERN operation has 2,000 beehives producing honey from a QUEENSLAND specific Eucalyptus tree which is a prolific nectar producer 2015-16 in the winter. Beeswax is used in the manufacture of candles, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and timber polish. Being free of chemical residue, Australian beeswax is in high demand in Europe and the United States of America, and prices have doubled

in recent years. Other honey products produced locally include lip balm, beeswax creams, honey shampoo, conditioner and soap, honey scrubs, body milk and lotion, $35 million Gross value Gross in Queensland and also wine called Honey Mead.

2015-16 INDUSTRY INFORMATION www.honeybee.org.au

Aquaculture The Australian fisheries and aquaculture production Aquaculture production was valued at $2.8 billion in 2014-15. 50% of in Queensland the production value was exported in this time. Australians consume on average 14 kilograms of seafood. The total national consumption of seafood was 341,328 tonnes in 2014-15, with imports 8,187 supplementing local seafood supply. TONNES AQUACULTURE Queensland produced 28,002 tonnes of seafood IN QUEENSLAND in 2014-15, consisting of both wild catch and aquaculture. The gross value was $291 million in 2014-15, of which aquaculture contributed $114 million and 8,187 tonnes. Queensland’s largest inland aquaculture operation is located in Southern Queensland, producing fingerlings to market size fish with an annual harvest capacity of 50 tonnes. Fish are currently sold live and chilled into Sydney and Melbourne with further plans to export into Asia. The main varieties include 10.5% INCREASE Silver Perch, Murray Cod, Jade Perch and Golden Perch. There are other small operations in Southern Queensland producing for the domestic market.

INDUSTRY INFORMATION $114 million Gross value Gross

Gross value value Gross $103 million www.aaq.com.au

2009-10 2014-15

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 15 Produce Harvest Calendar APPENDIX 1

Vegetables

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Asian Vegetables

Asparagus

Broad Beans

Beans

Broccoli /Broccolini TM

Brussel Sprouts

Cabbage

Capsicum

Carrots

Cauliflower

Celeriac

Celery Chinese Cabbage

Cucumber

Fennel

Kholi Rabi

Garlic

Kale

Leeks

Lettuce

Mushroom

Parsley

Peas - Snow and Sugar Snap

Potatoes

Onions

Okra

Pumpkins

Rockmelon

Radish

Rhubarb

Shallots

Silverbeet

Spinach

Squash

Sweet Potato

Sweet Corn

Tomatoes

Turnips

Watercress

Watermelon

Zucchini

16 Agriculture in Southern Queensland Produce Harvest Calendar APPENDIX 1

Fruit

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Apples

Avocados

Pear

Persimmons

Stone Fruit

Strawberry

Grains

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Barley

Chickpea

Cotton

Maize

Millets

Mungbean

Navy Beans

Peanuts

Sorghum

Soybeans

Sunflower

Wheat

Agriculture in Southern Queensland 17 Acknowledgments

Department of Agriculture and Fisheries University of Southern Queensland Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Trade and Investment Queensland

Regional Development Australia Food Leaders Australia

This publication is presented by the Southern Queensland Agriculture Industry Development Group

Food Leaders Australia Trade and Investment Queensland Regional Development Australia (Darling Downs and South West) P 07 4639 4600 P 07 4616 7331 P 07 4638 0089 www.foodleadersaus.com.au www.tiq.qld.gov.au www.rda-ddsw.org.au

Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Institute of Agriculture and Environment Department of State Development, Manufacturing, P 07 4529 4121 P 07 4631 5340 Infrastructure and Planning www.daf.qld.gov.au www.usq.edu.au/research/agriculture-agribusiness P 07 4616 7327 www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au

June 2018