The 2024 Cairns Show was a vibrant celebration of culture, innovation, and community, and we were thrilled to be a part of it. Barron River Redclaw, in collaboration with the Aquaponic Gardener, proudly sponsored the Bush Tucker Indigenous displays. Our aquaculture exhibit, featured our Redclaw crayfish and Jade perch, provided a unique glimpse into sustainable farming practices and the rich heritage of indigenous cuisine.
At the core of our exhibit were our local Redclaw crayfish, sourced directly from the Barron River Redclaw Farm in FNQ Tablelands. Redclaw & Perch (also known as black bream) are not only integral to our aquaculture endeavours but also play a crucial role in traditional indigenous diets. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about the lifecycle of these fascinating creatures, their cultural and ecological significance, and the sustainable farming methods we employ to cultivate them.
Our partnership with the Aquaponic Gardener allowed us to create an interactive and educational Aquaponics display that highlighted the synergy between aquaculture and vegetable production. Aquaponics, a sustainable farming technique, combines the cultivation of aquatic animals with the growth of plants in water, utilizing the nutrient-rich waste produced by the fish as natural fertilizer for the plants. This closed-loop system not only conserves water but also produces healthy, organic food.
We were especially honoured to share this space with various indigenous groups and James Cook University (JCU). The Bush Tucker gardens were a testament to the deep-rooted connection between the land and its first inhabitants. Our redclaw and jade perch were featured prominently in these gardens, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between traditional knowledge and modern sustainable practices.
Our exhibit was part of the AG-Venture Farming and Bush Tukka Garden Market, located at E6 on the show map. This vibrant section of the show allowed visitors to explore a bountiful showcase of locally grown vegetables and immerse themselves in the world of bush tukka. Attendees learned about traditional Indigenous foods and their cultural significance while discovering the rich diversity of our region’s agriculture. It was an educational and delicious experience for all ages, providing a unique opportunity to connect with our community’s farming heritage.
Throughout the show, our Aquaponics and Redclaw display in the George Gorton cattle yards, away from the hustle and bustle of the rides, attracted a steady stream of curious visitors. It was a must-see for anyone interested in sustainable farming, food security, indigenous culture, or simply curious about the incredible world of aquaponics or redclaw crayfish. We were delighted to share our knowledge and passion with the community and to showcase Redclaw for food and the potential of aquaponics while honouring the rich cultural tapestry of our region.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported us in bringing this vision to life. Together, we not only showcased the best of aquaponics but also paid tribute to the enduring legacy of indigenous knowledge and the future of sustainable food production. Thank you for joining us at the Cairns Show!