CATTLE farmers, Ben and Alice Roughan, were among 30 producers who participated in a free Agribusiness forum hosted by Somerset Regional Council.

Mr and Mrs Roughan have built up their Wivenhoe Wagyu operation in Somerset over the past eight years and said the forum was beneficial.

The forum was held on Tuesday, 16 April at Esk and supported by a panel of experts from Future Ag Queensland, Rural Financial Counselling Service Southern Queensland, Rural Bank, Commonwealth Bank, QRIDA and Queensland Farmers Federation.

“These forums, industry days, field days, etc are always beneficial. You always walk away with something new,” Mr Roughan said.

“For us in particular the information provided by QRIDA in regards to low interest loans and grants was really good.”

Somerset Regional Council Mayor, Jason Wendt, said council put on agricultural workshops, business resilience and information workshops regularly to help the community.

“These workshops provide valuable information and it’s crucial that we do our bit to help small businesses and primary producers in Somerset thrive,” Cr Wendt said.

“I am a passionate primary producer and know firsthand that the agriculture sector is the backbone of Somerset.

“The agricultural industry is a significant contributor to the local economy and across the state and therefore it’s imperative that we support our farmers, and small businesses, wherever we can.”

“There are many challenges facing the sector, but our council is proud to be a conduit in providing important, and relevant information, to these key stakeholders.”   

For more information about upcoming workshops and support initiatives in Somerset visit the Economic Development section of council’s website – www.somerset.qld.gov.au or get in touch with council’s business recovery officer on 5424 4000.

The Agribusiness forum was brought to residents by Somerset Regional Council with assistance provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DFRA).