James David Bowden in Maroochydore court for drug operation at North Arm

A Sunshine Coast farmer caught growing eight different types of cannabis in a sophisticated facility on his family’s ginger, tomato and garlic farm has been sentenced.

James David Bowden leaves Maroochydore District Court. Pictured: Patrick Woods.

A North Arm farmer was busted running a sophisticated drug operation where police found more than 300 cannabis plants and several hydroponic tents.

James David Bowden, 39, pleaded guilty to possessing drugs, producing drugs and possessing utensils in Maroochydore District Court on December 6, 2022.

The court heard Bowden’s property at North Arm was searched on October 31, 2021, where police found a large commercial hydroponic set-up in a shed.

The shed contained 10 bedroom-sized grow tents which contained their own hydroponic arrangements and marijuana plants at various growing stages.

The tents were fitted with lights, heating, timers, water pumps, hanging nets, hoses, exhaust and ventilation fans.

All this equipment was destroyed on site by police.

James David Bowden leaves Maroochydore District Court. Pictured: Patrick Woods.

Police seized 212 cannabis plants, 110 seedlings and a further shipping container with 18 plants.

The court heard the total wet weight of the plants was 126.5kg with roots removed, which would have amounted to approximately 20kg if dried.

A search of the main house led police to find two clip seal bags with 9g of marijuana, various types of cannabis seeds, a grinder and glass pipe.

The court was told the set-up was clearly large, sophisticated and had the potential to produce a significant commercial yield.

Defence barrister Nathan Turner said his client didn’t have a partner or any children but lived on and managed the family farm with his 76-year-old father.

James David Bowden (white shirt) leaves Maroochydore District Court. Pictured: Patrick Woods.

“He provides a level of care for his father who has dementia and some other physical illnesses,” Mr Turner said.

Mr Turner said Bowden had lived his whole life on the farm that grows ginger, tomatoes, garlic and also has 180 cattle.

Bowden started his own roofing and installation business at the age of 25 but stopped when his mother was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

“He provided palliative care to her during this time ... a year after his mother’s death he then assumed responsibility for the farm,” Mr Turner told the court.

“He was very close to his mother and struggled with grief and adjusting to life after her death.”

Mr Turner said his client had been trying out eight different types of cannabis over a six-month period to see which strain delivered the most yield.

Judge Glen cash ordered Bowden serve 2.5 years’ prison suspended for three years and complete 100 hours of community service within 12 months.

Originally published as James David Bowden in Maroochydore court for drug operation at North Arm