AgForce Hails 'Positive First Step'

Agricultural Industry Development Minister Mark Furner

December 18, 2018

AgForce’s campaign to save the Longreach and Emerald agricultural colleges received a boost on Friday when State Agriculture Minister Mark Furner agreed to consider an industry-led solution in the New Year.

An AgForce statement said that at a meeting, the Minister agreed to consider a proposal from AgForce to lead wide-ranging industry, regional and community engagement over the future of QATC and its assets to ensure there was a strong future for agricultural training in Queensland.

AgForce president Georgie Somerset said the meeting was a “positive first step” in retaining the Colleges for future generations.

“While the future of the colleges is far from certain, we appreciate the Minister hearing our case to keep them open and his commitment to genuinely consider a proposal developed by industry and the community,” Mrs Somerset said.

“Although not exactly the outcome we were aiming for – a commitment to handing the colleges back to industry – it is a positive foundation on which we as an industry must build as we work together to secure the future of the colleges.

“We believe the Minister now understands the level of anger in the bush at his decision to close the colleges without any meaningful consultation, as well as our steadfast determination to ensure these vital assets remain within the industry.

“AgForce is proud to be leading the charge on this issue, and will continue to collaborate with stakeholders, communities, the regions, and Minister Furner and his team to develop an effective, enduring solution.”

Mrs Somerset said the Minister had also committed to meeting with AgForce early in the new year to keep the lines of communication and collaboration open.

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