From ‘where you are’ to ‘where you want to be’

Farming comes with enough uncertainty. From crops, staff, machinery, audits, and getting produce to market, it can be difficult to take a step back and ask: “Where are we now? Where do we want to be? And how do we get there?”

Answering these three questions is the focus of phase two of Growcom’s Farm Business Resilience Program (FBRP) for horticulture. After successfully delivering the program since 2022, Growcom is proud to continue supporting Queensland growers with another three-year term.

The next phase brings a fresh team on board. Program Manager, Amy Nash will lead support assisted by Facilitators Sarah Reynolds (North Queensland), Fiona Beveridge (Central Queensland), and Liz Ford (Southern Queensland). Together, they will combine one-to-one support with grower meetings and events tailored to regional and grower needs.

The goal is to help growers develop Farm Business Resilience Plans – a practical tool for thinking about the factors that could shape your farms future. These plans aren’t just about identifying risks – they’re about finding opportunities and putting strategies in place to make your farm stronger, more flexible, and more profitable.

Ms Nash said FBRP support would extend beyond the planning process, to working with growers in turning plans on paper into outcomes in the paddock, the pack shed, or wherever farmers need support in their business. 

“Our team is here to listen to what your pain points and aspirations are. We will work with you to map that out,” Amy said.

“And what’s most important is linking growers with the services, funding opportunities, or experts who can address what’s in your business plan.

“This could be about infrastructure, disaster preparedness, succession planning, or workforce, for example.”

With many services, resources, and grants available to farmers and people living in regional and rural communities, it is a case of matching up the right support depending on a grower’s needs.

“FBRP isn’t just about helping you set the destination for your farm’s future, it’s about providing connections, resources, and meaningful support to get you there,” Amy said.

Phase 2 of the Farm Business Resilience Program for Horticulture, delivered by Growcom, is funded through to 31 December 2029. The program is jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.