Key takeaways
The next generation of northern agriculture got a firsthand look at the opportunities, challenges and innovation shaping the industry during the recent Cooktown Ag Inspirations tour. Delivered in partnership with the TNQ Drought Hub and supported by Cape York Natural Resource Management, the three-day experience connected 27 students with producers and businesses across the Cooktown and Lakeland regions.
From tropical horticulture and aquaculture to cattle production and emerging AgTech, students were given the chance to step beyond the classroom and experience the diversity of agriculture in Far North Queensland.
Day one took students to Lily Creek Farm and Hope Vale Foundation’s Gungarde Farm, where they explored enterprises including dragon fruit, passionfruit, pumpkins, prawns, hydroponics and strawberries. The tour highlighted how innovation and adaptability are creating new opportunities for producers in the region, while also showcasing the importance of combining traditional knowledge with modern farming practices.
Students also saw how technology is becoming part of everyday farming operations, including the use of electric vehicles and controlled growing systems. For many, it was an eye-opening introduction to the wide range of careers and pathways available across the agricultural sector.
On day two, the group travelled to Lakeland to visit Red Valley Farms. Hosts Pete and Dereck shared honest insights into both the rewards and challenges of running a modern farming business, encouraging students to think differently and remain open to new ideas.
From locally grown mushrooms to large-scale banana production, students learned how innovation, persistence and continual improvement can help businesses adapt and grow in changing conditions. The visit also reinforced the importance of resilience and flexibility in agriculture, particularly as producers continue responding to climate variability, market pressures and evolving industry demands.
The final day took students behind the scenes at Crocodile Station, where they experienced life on a working cattle property. Activities including branding, tagging and discussions around animal wellbeing gave students a practical understanding of the care and decision-making involved in livestock production.
The tour concluded at Kureen Farming, where students explored a highly diversified operation spanning bananas, sorghum and avocado production. Hands-on activities including banana packing and labelling gave students a paddock-to-plate perspective and demonstrated the scale and coordination involved in supplying fresh produce to market.
Across the three days, students not only gained practical knowledge, but also built confidence, industry connections and a stronger understanding of the opportunities available within northern agriculture. Experiences like Cooktown Ag Inspirations continue to play an important role in strengthening regional skills, encouraging future industry leaders and supporting long-term resilience across rural communities.
