Growing connections from paddock to the Reef

Nearly 40 growers and industry members swapped their paddocks for the waterfront in late March, gathering at Grunske’s by the River on the banks of the Burnett for Hooked on Hort – Casting for Cleaner Waters.

The event offered a chance for locals to connect over a shared appreciation for fishing – an industry that, much like horticulture, faces its own set of challenges – and enjoy a variety of fresh, local seafood from the Grunske’s restaurant.

Beryl Grunske shared the story behind Grunske’s, reflecting on 40 years in the fishing industry alongside her husband Paul, and the realities of being one of Queensland’s last remaining public-facing seafood processors.

Adding to the evening, guest speaker Andrew Hart captivated attendees as he recounted highlights from his 25 years hosting Hook, Line and Sinker and his fondness for the Great Barrier Reef. Andrew said while Tasmania may be home, the Reef runs a close second as his favourite place to fish because of its abundance, beauty and colour.

Event organiser and Hort360 GBR Facilitator, Lilly Rehbein said the event was more than just a good feed and great stories.

“It was an opportunity to bring the horticultural community together in a relaxed setting, build cross-industry relationships and appreciation, and turn our minds to the importance of looking after waterways that farmers depend on for work and play,” she said.

With more events planned in coming months, Growers are encouraged to keep an eye on the QFVG socials for what’s next.

The Hort360 GBR Project is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Project.