Queenslanders are being asked to support locally grown produce to help the state’s agriculture industry cope with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said the Queensland Government had stepped up to the plate by making $200,000 available to promote the consumption of Queensland produce through the #eatqld campaign.
“#eatqld has a crucial role to play in Queensland’s plan to help the agriculture industry unite and recover from the economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Furner said.
“That is why $100,000 has been allocated to support the campaign to encourage Queenslanders to eat local, stay healthy and support jobs in the state’s agricultural sector.
“With restrictions easing and school holidays on the horizon, there is no better time than right now to explore Queensland-grown food and, when you do, we ask that you take a photograph and share it online using the hashtag #eatqld.”
Mr Furner said Queensland’s peak agriculture industry bodies were also doing their bit to promote Queensland’s wonderful clean and green produce.
“A further $100,000 in grants will go to our valued #eatqld partners Growcom, Queensland Farmers Federation, AgForce, and Queensland Seafood Marketers Association to promote Queensland produce and other assistance measures that are relevant to their industry,” Mr Furner said.
“This funding is a welcome injection that promotes top quality Queensland produce and supports the Government’s determination to protect Queenslanders’ lives and livelihoods.
“Our #eatqld partners play a vital role in helping spread the word about the safe and nutritious produce from Queensland’s vibrant and robust agriculture sector and the Government supports their efforts to make sure the #eatqld message is on everyone’s menu.”
Mr Furner said everyone could chip in to support Queensland producers during these unprecedented times by stocking up on Queensland-produced meat, seafood, fruit, nuts and vegies.
“The agriculture and fisheries sectors contribute significantly to Queensland’s economy, with more than 88 per cent of the state used for agricultural production”, Mr Furner said.
“Eating Queensland produce supports maintaining and creating jobs in Queensland’s economy and keeps Queenslanders healthy.
“We are delivering on our plan to Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs, and this funding will help our farmers to promote what they do best.
“So when you enjoy some great Queensland produce, the simple act of snapping and sharing via the #eatqld hashtag will spread the word about the world of flavour from the state of delicious.”
