January 22, 2021
Traditional owners and people interested in “agriculture, horticulture, bush tucker, research and innovation” have been invited to learn more about a new plan to grow and supply bush tucker and fauna products for commercial sale and distribution.
The project, which is being developed by Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, is in its early stages.
Workshops to brainstorm the initiative will be held at the University of Queensland’s Gatton campus from February 15-18.
Council says this will be an opportunity “to meet with likeminded people, discuss and learn more about the project, how it can be rolled out, developed, funded, and protected, with a view to increased job opportunities” in Cherbourg.
“Utilising already available resources here in Cherbourg (like hydroponics), the new venture could quickly have plants growing at volume with produce making its way to the Brisbane marketplace and beyond within the next two years,” a Council spokesperson said.
“Act now and you could be among a select group of motivated individuals working closely with University of Queensland along with Indigenous partners from Eidsvold and Far North Queensland at (the) upcoming workshop … to explore the full potential of this unique opportunity.”
The organisers have encouraged everyone from senior students to Elders to also consider taking part.
“During the workshop, we will be working on the contract with UQ,” the Council spokesperson said.
“UQ will provide a copy of the contract and we will have an Indigenous IP lawyer to represent us. We will also be working on benefit sharing agreements.”
- For more information, contact either Andrew Beckett or Sean Nicholson at Cherbourg Council
What a fantastic idea! I have enjoyed bush tucker when I find it and to have it more readily available with the upshot of direct benefits to the Cherbourg community a win win!