Bundaberg agriculture third highest producing regions in Qld

The Bundaberg region has banked a record production rate for its agriculture, with almost a billion dollars worth of production in its rich red soil.

Looking from the Hummock keen eyed veiwers would see several of the major agricultural industries which make up Bundaberg. Bundaberg is Queensland’s third most productive agricultural region, contributing $837million Gross Value Production to the state’s record overall GDP of $23.44billion. Photo Paul Beutel

Bundaberg is Queensland’s third most productive agricultural region, contributing $837million Gross Value Production to the state’s record overall GDP of $23.44billion.

The output this year was a 10.1 per cent rise on that of 2022-23, according the latest AgTrends data.

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Across Qld, Bundaberg was only out-produced by Toowoomba, with a GDP of $1.36 billion, and the Western Downs with a GDP of $1.11 billion.

Much of this region’s success comes from its continued involvement in the fruit, nug and vegetable industries, with more than 80 per cent of the production coming from horticulture.

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The fruit and nut industry accounted for almost half of the horticulture produced, with an estimated value of more than $300 million.

Avocados accounted for $90million dollars worth of production, macadamias $78million and strawberries $38million.

The local strawberry industry accounted for almost $40million of the region’s Gross Value Production.

While the local sugar cane industry has arguably shrunk in recent years, sugar accounted for more than $90million in industrial crops.

Bundaberg Canegrowers chairman Mark Pressler welcomed the news and said the numbers were worthy of celebration.

“When primary producers make money, the whole region benefits,” he said.

Mr Pressler said he was looking forward to an expected return of 1.9 million tonnes of sugar in this year’s crush, with high sugar prices only benefiting local growers further.

Queensland produces 95 per cent of the nation’s sugar, with much of that coming from the South East and North Queensland.

Agricultural Industry Development, Fisheries and Rural Communities Minister Mark Furner congrulated the state on its billion dollar production.

“Queensland’s produce is world-class, so it’s no surprise our state’s ag sector is breaking records,” he said.

“Despite challenges presented by Covid and floods, our agribusinesses continue to go from strength to strength.”