Representing Far North Queensland Farmers at a National Climate Change Forum
I was honoured to be selected to travel to Canberra to represent Queensland farmers, regional businesses, and local communities at a national climate change forum focused on agriculture and land-based industries.
The forum brought together farmers, scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and community representatives to explore practical and innovative responses to climate change- not just in theory, but in terms of what actually works on the ground. As an environmental scientist and sustainable Redclaw crayfish farmer based in Far North Queensland, it was important to me that the realities of regional and tropical farming systems were clearly understood and represented.
I attended the climate change forum representing both Barron River Redclaw, our sustainable aquaculture farm in North Queensland, and the Redclaw Farmers Association of North QLD. Freshwater aquaculture is often overlooked in national climate discussions, yet it has significant potential to contribute to food security, regional employment, and lower-emissions protein production when managed responsibly.
A key focus of the forum was discussion around Australia’s net-zero 2050 targets and what those commitments mean for farmers and small businesses today. I contributed to frank and constructive conversations about how climate change policy translates at the farm gate – including energy use, water efficiency, infrastructure investment, and the need for practical transition pathways rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
From a redclaw farming perspective, I shared insights drawn directly from our work in sustainable aquaculture – including pond management, aeration efficiency, water reuse, biological filtration, and the role of low-impact freshwater protein in future food systems. I also raised the importance of recognising regional differences, particularly for northern Australia, where climate, distance, and infrastructure constraints require tailored approaches.
What stood out most was the quality of the debate. There were differing views in the room, but a shared recognition that farmers must be part of shaping climate change solutions – not simply responding to them. I was proud to advocate for Far North Queensland producers and to ensure that freshwater aquaculture, regional food security, and small-scale sustainable farming were part of the national conversation.
Opportunities like this reinforce why on-farm research, innovation, and collaboration matter. The decisions made in Canberra ultimately flow through to farms, communities, and families. Being able to contribute lived experience from the paddock, pond, and community level is something I take seriously — and something I will continue to do wherever possible.
As climate pressures increase, the future of agriculture will depend on practical science, local knowledge, and genuine partnerships between government, industry, and communities. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to represent our region and our industry at this important forum, and I remain committed to helping build resilient, sustainable food systems for the future.
For more details, check out the full article in the Cairns Post article below:
