Dairying in FNQ is at a crossroads. Reflecting agriculture generally, the traditional pathway to farm ownership is under pressure.
But with the right support and local leadership, community investment can provide new options for people to enter and grow in dairy in FNQ.
Dairy Farmers Milk Cooperative, Cultivate Farms and Circular Head Farming Group are collaborating to help the local FNQ community develop a scalable, community-led investment model that promotes sustainable, locally owned dairy farms.
Locals who care deeply about seeing dairy thrive in FNQ are being sought to ensure the project is led by those who know and understand the region’s farming potential.
These Pathway Leaders will be farmers, business people, industry or community leaders, who will be provided training and mentorship.
They will jumpstart the development of the community-led investment model, drawing on the learnings and success of the locally-driven dairy investment program through Circular Head Farming in Tasmania.
January 2025
We are excited to share the progress of the Far North Queensland Dairy Pathways Program. Since its inception, this initiative has focused on revitalising dairy farming in the region by connecting seasoned farmers, innovative agribusiness professionals, and aspiring young leaders to collectively shape the future of the industry.
The training phase of the program is now officially underway, with our Pathway Leaders participating in the first of six tailored sessions designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge to lead transformative change. These sessions are scheduled to run from January through March 2025, providing a strong foundation for community-driven solutions.
This program is unique in bringing together a diverse group of participants who share a commitment to advancing Far North Queensland’s dairy sector. The Pathway Leaders include experienced dairy farmers, energetic young leaders, and professionals passionate about community engagement. Together, they represent a cross-section of expertise and vision essential for driving innovation and sustainability.
Looking ahead, April 2025 will mark a significant milestone as the Pathway Leaders will present their individual visions for advancing the program. This step is crucial in ensuring the program remains aligned with the needs and aspirations of the community it serves.
The FNQ Dairy Pathways Program continues to demonstrate the power of collaboration and forward-thinking in addressing the challenges of an ageing farmer population and the need for succession planning. By fostering a shared vision and building local capacity, the program lays the groundwork for a thriving and resilient dairy industry in Far North Queensland.
We will keep you updated on further milestones and invite you to continue supporting this transformative journey. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out (contact details below).
Contact Sam at Cultivate Farms to organise a one-on-one in-person chat.
Email: sam@cultivatefarms.com.Founded by local farmer Stephen Fisher in 2014, Circular Head Farming raises funds from local investors to buy farms and then gets keen next generation farmers to run them.
Over time, these sharefarmers can raise their own cows and eventually buy a stake in the farm. To date, Circular Head Farming involves 12 farms and more than 9,000 cows.