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By Heidi Pozzan

Primary Industries week began with a promise this year that by 2020, the value of agriculture in Queensland will triple to $34 billion according to the Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, Hon. Tim Mulherin. Mr Mulherin announced the ambitious prediction during his address at the Rural Press Club recently.

 Mr Mulherin said he was passionate about Primary Industries and that he feels there is a need to explain to the people what contribution agriculture makes to the economy.

“From $13 billion per annum to $34 billion which is triple by 2020 is ambitious but I am confident with the right people and the right building blocks in place that we will be able to reach our target,” he said.

“If we work together for a common purpose, it can be done.”

According to Mr Mulherin, Primary Industry Week is a great opportunity for the primary industry sector to take a stand and let people know where food and fibre comes from.

The week is also an opportunity for young students to engage and understand more about agriculture and the opportunities within this sector.

“Doing nothing is not an option, even though we are outperforming other states,” Mr Mulherin said
“We are working with the University of Queensland Gatton precinct and their vet school is relocating out there next year. Gatton is the national showcase, a lighthouse to other countries.”

Mr Mulherin, with his determined goal of $34 billion by 2020, said he wants to make sure everything is in order to reach these goals and he hopes more students become involved in agriculture as there will need to be a 36 percent increase in more agricultural scientists to deal with diseases and to find more breakthroughs.

Pictured above L to R: Minister Tim Mulherin, Club Vice President Lisa Palu and Primary Industries Week organiser Jamie O'Brien.