Agriculture is more than tractors and paddocks, it’s innovation, leadership, sustainability, and community. From global innovation to grassroots leadership, careers in agriculture are as diverse as they are rewarding.
This video series showcases the journeys of two remarkable women who have built successful, long-term careers in agriculture right here in North Queensland. Their stories are real, their insights are powerful, and their impact on their communities is undeniable.
With over 25 years of experience in Australian agriculture, Alison brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the sector. Raised on a mixed farm in the Darling Downs, she has remained deeply connected to beef production and rural communities. Alison is a Rural Financial Counsellor, Director of the Advancing Beef Leaders Foundation and a seasoned mentor, board member, and former CEO.
Her videos highlight:
Krista is the Founder and Director of Natural Evolution, a globally recognized business pioneering banana flour, resistant starch, and banana-based ointments. Her journey is one of innovation, resilience, and a deep commitment to sustainability. Krista’s work has positioned her as a leader in agricultural product development, transforming waste into high-value goods and creating new markets for tropical produce.
Her videos explore:
Background
The TNQ Drought Hub previously developed a formative video series with seasoned industry experts Bob Shepherd and Roger Stone to share knowledge and highlight opportunities in agriculture.
Building on this work, a new series was created to showcase the experiences of women who have built successful, long-term careers in the agricultural sector in North Queensland, aiming to broaden the sector’s appeal and showcase its diversity.
Two industry leaders, Krista Watkins, Founder and Co-Director of Natural Evolution, and Alison Larard, Rural Financial Counsellor and Director of the Advancing Beef Leaders Foundation, were interviewed. Together, their journeys reflect the breadth of possibility across agribusiness, entrepreneurship, resource management, and leadership.
Why This Matters
The agricultural industry faces ongoing workforce shortages, with businesses across the sector working hard to attract and retain talent. Encouraging more women to explore careers in agriculture is critical to building a skilled, diverse, and resilient workforce.
By sharing the real stories of Krista and Alison, this series raises awareness of the vast career opportunities available locally in North Queensland. Their insights demonstrate that agriculture is not just about farming—it’s about innovation, leadership, sustainability, and community. The videos aim to spark interest among women considering their career pathways, while strengthening current and future talent pipelines.
What We Did
The TNQ Drought Hub conducted a series of informative, on-location interviews with Krista and Alison. Filmed in their workplaces, the conversations revealed their career drivers, personal passions, and the lessons they have learned through experience.
Krista spoke about her entrepreneurial journey building Natural Evolution, a globally recognised leader in banana flour and resistant starch innovation. Alison shared her extensive experience in leadership, resource management, and capacity building across agribusiness, with a focus on developing future leaders through mentoring and governance.
Both emphasised the importance of resilience and innovation, alongside their commitment to supporting the next generation in agriculture. Six videos were produced for each participant, capturing insights designed to inspire, inform, and encourage more women to see themselves in agricultural careers.
Their stories are a testament to the power of passion and purpose in shaping a successful career in agriculture.
