The Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub (TNQDH) was proud to sponsor a dedicated session on agriculture and food systems at the 2025 Tropical Innovation Festival (TIF), held in Cairns on the 25-26 June. The session reflected the vital role these sectors play in Tropical North Queensland and beyond.
The half-day session delved into the integration of technology in farming practices, emphasizing sustainable agriculture, building relationship, food security, the role of innovation in enhancing productivity and pushing the boundaries of agtech and sustainability. Discussions also encompassed the importance of traditional knowledge in modern agricultural practices.
Program Lead Kara-Glenn Worth said, “The importance of inspiring and supporting diversity in Agrifood Tech is a topic close to my heart and vital for driving innovation that truly reflects the communities we serve.”
A highlight for the festival included the hub sponsored First Nations Agribusiness Panel with the team from LIFES who support First Nations businesses and promote bush foods. The panel pointed out the importance of trust, investment and time in building relationships with indigenous communities and the need for local initiatives.
The TNQDH team played a large part throughout the festival with Kara delivering a Lighting Pitch on AgValuate at the Ecosystem Leaders Bootcamp, and Knowledge Adoption Officer Carrie-Ann Wilson joined the Research Commercialisation Bootcamp and Agriculture and Food Session panels which focused on the support and programs available to both farmers and startups. Carrie-Ann also pitched BeefVantage, an artificial intelligence chatbot providing beef producers with tailored, actionable advice. Knowledge Broker Karen George facilitated a panel with startups who are boosting drought and climate resilience through innovation.
Carrie-Ann reflected on the festival, “I walked out energised and optimistic. There’s something powerful about being in a place full of people building things that matter. Queensland’s startup scene is full of energy.”
TIF served as a vibrant space for connecting innovators, researchers, and producers, showcasing cutting-edge solutions and fostering discussions critical to the future of Australian agriculture and food.
JULY 2025
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