NQ Field Days 2024 Official Guide

Vantage BMS backs Farming Community

A leading provider of advanced position solutions all across Australia will be showcasing its wares at this year’s Rotary NQ Field Days.

Vantage BMS has more than 40 years of experience selling and servicing lasers, machine control systems, and precision ag solutions.

The company specialises in providing a range of holistic solutions and aims to maximise productivity on-site with the peace of mind to deliver a solid return on investment.

Vantage BMS has grown immensely since the 1980s, when using lasers for land levelling was still in its infancy, and is one of the largest precision ag distributors for Trimble.

Accredited distributors of both Trimble and Spectra Precision products, Vantage BMS will be exhibiting at the Rotary NQ Field Days this year and has come on board as the Sponsor of the 2024 Official Guide.

The team at Vantage BMS are looking forward to meeting up with customers, new and existing, to discuss their end-to-end solutions from Trimble Agriculture, Spectra Precision and more.

Vantage BMS Co-Founder and Managing Director, Lew Brandon said,

“At Vantage BMS, we pride ourselves on being North Queensland’s trusted precision technology advisors for farmers, contractors and construction personnel.”

“Sharing solutions with the farming community is what we do, and events like the NQ Field Days are a great opportunity to chat with our customers, see new faces, and talk to growers about how they can adopt a more targeted management approach to farming by using precision agriculture.”

“We look forward to being a part of the 2024 NQ Field Days once again.”

Bumper Field Days set for 2024

NORTH Queensland’s leading agricultural event is back bigger and better in 2024 to showcase the best practices in all avenues of farming, agribusiness, and rural industries.

Rotary NQ Field Days will feature two full days of live product demonstrations, exhibitor demonstration areas, networking, technology, innovation and much more.

Held at Reid Park, Townsville on April 4-5, the event attracts exhibitors from across the North Queensland region and intrastate.

Rotary NQ Field Days came back to fruition in 2022 after a hiatus, featuring new management and a new location.

The revamped event attracted more than 5000 visitors and about 200 exhibition sites.

Now under the management of the Rotary Clubs of Townsville and the Burdekin, funds raised at the biennial Field Days go directly back into the local communities, supporting a range of local initiatives and projects.

Having grown up on a property, Event Chairman John Larkin said the Field

Days was an event he always looked forward to.

He said the large-scale Field Days was run solely by dedicated volunteers, apart from two paid positions.

“We start (planning) about 18 months out with the new committee,” Mr Larkin said.

“The last event in 2022 was quite successful and we have no reason to believe this year’s event won’t be a great success.

“We’ve listened and done some things differently for this year’s event.

“We try to fill about 1000-man hours of volunteers at the event and probably close to that goes into organising it.”

The 2024 Rotary NQ Field Days run Thursday, 4th April from 9am to 5pm, and Friday, 5th April 9am to 4.30pm.

The NQ Field Days operates within the guidelines provided by Qld Health to reduce the risks associated with the COVID19 virus.

For more information about this year’s event, visit www.nqfd.net.au

Message from the Mayor of Townsville

The Rotary NQ Field Days is a pivotal event in our region’s calendar, epitomising the resilience, innovation, and collaborative spirit of Northern Queensland.

In an era where the emphasis on sustainable practices and local resilience is unprecedented, the Rotary NQ Field Days provide a glimpse into the future of industry in our area. This event represents a unique chance for all of us to learn, share, and actively participate in shaping our economic future, driven by the innovation and commitment of our local farmers, businesses, and community leaders.

I extend an invitation to the community to dive into the wealth of experiences

and knowledge available throughout the event. As we embark on this journey of learning and discovery, let’s also focus on the future opportunities that lie ahead for strengthening our community, endorsing sustainable development, and forging a brighter future for Northern Queensland.

I wish to express my congratulations to the organising committee for their meticulous planning and dedication to making this event a standout occasion. Acknowledgments are also due to the industry members who generously contribute their time and expertise, making the Rotary NQ Field Days an unmissable event.

Cr Jenny Hill – Mayor of

Photo: Rotary NQ Field Days Committee Members Ken Mackney, John Larkin and John Oar

Townsville

Pickerings Auto Group - Driving the Future

With a rich history that spans over 40 years, Pickerings Auto Group who is still locally owned and operated has become a trusted name in the automotive industry for the local Townsville region.

Pickerings is the largest dealership, and home to 14 brands: Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, LDV, RAM, MG, Volkswagen, Skoda, INEOS Grenadier, Porsche, Audi, Townsville BMW, BMW Motorrad, and Townsville MINI Garage.

They have a passion for cars and ensure that they have in stock the latest models along with the latest offers. They also have a large Service and Parts department who can assist with looking after your car.

Now is the perfect time to purchase a new or even a demonstrator car. Many brands that were experiencing wait times are no longer and the car brands are adding extras like free servicing, excellent financial comparison rates and even free accessories to encourage to buy now while you can.

With so much choice when it comes to what car you may need then we do suggest talking to the Pickerings team. They have small cars, SUV’s, utes and of course luxury performance cars, they also have the largest range of Electric Vehicles.

Pickerings guarantee they can find the right car at the price for your lifestyle.

The Townsville North Queensland Field Days are back in 2024, the Townsville & Burdekin Rotary Clubs are operating the event. Profits from the event will be given directly back to community!

Thursday, 4 April 2024 9:00am - 5:00pm

Friday, 5 April 2024 9:00am - 4:30pm

Reid Park, 55-59 Boundary Street, South Townsville Q 4810

Get in quick and secure your on-site parking spot close to the event.

Limited spaces available at Civic Theatre @ $10.00 per vehicle. Other free parking available, view the map in the centrespread.

Experience Counts

Bayswater Road Radiators is celebrating 40 years in business this year and is a proud long-term member of the MTAQ and the first radiator specialist to be appointed approved repair for the RACQ. The business services Queensland and throughout Western Queensland and specialises in cooling systems with an emphasis on trucks, agriculture, earthmoving, machinery, industrial and mining applications. Bayswater Radiators carry out service and repairs to road trains and off highway units and carry a large, ever-expanding range of complete heavy duty up-grade exchange truck radiators and intercoolers ready for immediate dispatch. Popular exchange stock includes Kenworth, Western Star, Mack etc.

Bayswater Radiators have specialist design and engineering capabilities to develop heavy-duty cooling packs along with special up-grade cooling applications for all industries to increase performance and longevity for highway, mining, industrial, 4WD, performance and any specialist application.

Bayswater Radiators are also an approved Dicon Marine distributor and

along with sales specialise in the overhaul and repairs to all types of marine and industrial heat exchange products.

Bayswater Radiators has teamed up with DEX Machinery Spares which specialise in the supply of machinery blades, GET parts, along with the supply of machinery attachments including buckets, rock breakers, sheers and more.

Being locals, Bayswater Radiators supports local sports, junior motorsports, car shows and charities. We are a proud supporter of the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute.

ONE DAY PASS $10 per person

TWO DAY PASS $15 per person

Innovative Plastics Company reshaping the Future

A TOWNSVILLE company with a key focus on creating products that are tough built for the environment is preparing for expediential growth.

Established in 1989, Gough Plastics is a proud family-owned company based in Townsville, North Queensland.

Attracting customers across Queensland, Australia and overseas, the company’s key product development is the safe storage, treatment and use of water and other liquids.

Gough Plastics is now making moves to cater for the demand in its products and future growth, with construction of a new state-of-the-art factory at Stuart underway.

The company’s Rural Sales Representative Thomas Gough said the brand-new factory would be more than double that of the original location at Bohle. Completion is set for approximately July-August this year.

“Granddad and the three brothers, Simon, Andrew and Ian (Gough) built the original factory from the ground up with the help of friends and family,” Mr Gough said.

“We’ve now outgrown the space and thanks to a manufacturing grant by the Federal Government, we can expand the factory.”

“Once (the new factory is) finished and we wheel out the first big gallon tank that we’re looking to do, it will be a great feeling.”

Along with their Tanks, Hybrid Toilet System, and Dump-Ezy, Gough Plastics has now introduced two new products to its catalogue – an All-Poly Feeder and an On Farm Diesel unit.

Mr Gough said both products were tough built for the environment and provided an alternative to steel products.

“The big benefit of the All-Poly Feeder is there’s no rust. There are no little parts or bits, it’s all poly,” he said.

“The idea of the On Farm Diesel is giving station owners and property owners an alternative to steel fabricated tanks that they use.”

“Our poly plastic is completely recyclable and eventually in the future we’ll have our own recycling capability on the plant.”

Gough Plastics is a proud Partner Sponsor of the 2024 Rotary NQ Field Days, which will be held on April 4-5 at Reid Park, Townsville.

The Rotary NQ Field Days is run by a dedicated group of Rotarians from Townsville and Burdekin Clubs.

For more details about Gough Plastics and their products, visit www.gough.com.au

RAINWATER TANKS

FEEDSMART TROUGHS CARTAGE TANKS

Effective Solutions: Durable Fence Posts & Erosion Mats

Farmers and landowners encounter numerous challenges, often seeking effective and lasting solutions amidst a sea of promises. However, two innovators offer simple and costefficient fixes to address major issues on properties.

Fence It Once with Concrete Fence Posts

Australian Concrete Posts provides prestressed concrete fence posts, ensuring durability and longevity, surpassing the lifespan of timber and steel alternatives. With consistency in quality, reliability in supply, and affordability, these posts offer a onetime fencing solution.

Erosion Control in a Roll with Flexible Concrete Mats

Australian Concrete Mats offers permeable, easy to use concrete erosion mats, resolving erosion in gullies, waterways, and dams. Quick to install

and cost-efficient, these mats allow vegetation growth, benefiting both the land and environment.

These solutions also align with rural recovery and rehabilitation grants, serving as resilient options for rebuilding infrastructure and restoring natural habitats. Since 2014, Richard and Alan have supplied these products nationwide, ensuring durability in harsh environmental conditions.

See for yourself these solutions, meet the makers at Townsville’s NQ Field Days Site D19 & D20 or explore their websites: www.ConcretePosts.com.au and www.ConcreteMats.com.au.

PICTURED RIGHT:

Innovators in concrete products, Business owners Richard and Alan from Australian Concrete Posts and Mats.

Australian

Family-owned Business backs the 2024 NQ Field Days

ONE of North Queensland’s leading agricultural dealerships has thrown its support behind the region’s premier rural and agricultural field day.

Tracpower has come on board as the major sponsors and event partner for 2024 Rotary NQ Field Days.

Held on April 4-5 at Reid Park, the two-day event strives to showcase best practices in all avenues of farming, agribusiness, and other relevant industries.

Tracpower is a family-owned farm machinery business and has been operating in the Burdekin and Townsville regions for more than 20 years.

In 2022, the company further expanded its services, with the launch of a new branch in the Ingham region.

Servicing the agriculture, recreation, and lifestyle markets, Tracpower employs more than 20 staff across its three locations.

Tracpower strives to provide its customers with the best of the best, selling a range of top brands such as Kubota, Polaris, Deutz-Fahr, Versatile, Husqvarna, Krone, Fuchs Lubricants and much more.

The company sells an extensive range of tractors, farm implements, hay products, slasher, spray equipment, recreational ATV bikes, and industrial lawn care.

Tracpower also backs up its wide range with a comprehensive department.

Tracpower is looking forward to returning to the Rotary NQ Field Days after a successful outcome at the event’s relaunch in 2022.

Exhibiting at the NQ Field Days is a chance for the business to connect with clients as well as attract new ones.

Fueling your Success

Portsmith Fuels & Oils are your local source for quality Caltex Fuels and Lubricants in North Queensland!

Portsmith Fuel & Oil is your friendly, locally owned go-to for all things fuel and lubricants in North Queensland. We’re proud to be the authorised distributor of Caltex quality products, serving our community with a down-to-earth approach that’s all about meeting your needs.

Being local means we get it – we understand what drives North Queensland, because we live and work here too. That’s why we’re all about personalised service, tailored to fit your unique requirements. Whether you’re powering up your farm equipment or keeping your business fleet on the move, we’ve got you covered with the right fuels and lubricants for the job.

But it’s not just about business – it’s about community. When you choose Portsmith Fuel & Oil, you’re supporting locals who care about our region’s prosperity. We’re not just here to sell products; we’re here to build

relationships and make a difference in the places we call home.

So, if you want genuine, no-nonsense service and top-quality products from people who truly understand your needs, look no further than Portsmith Fuel & Oil. We’re not just a supplier – we’re your neighbours, and we’re here to help you succeed.

The Tea Terrace Café

The Tea Terrace Café will be located upstairs in the Reid Park Building

Come and see us at the NQ Field days to discuss all your fuel and

Home to leading brands of Forklifts & Sweepers

Specialising in new and used forklift and sweeper sales FORKLIFT IT, established 2006, is a North Queensland name synonymous with quality equipment and independent, no nonsense industry advice.

We are proud to supply the region with leading brands of forklifts and sweepers such as Yale, Dieci and Hako.

Forklift Solutions

Yale - the world’s most respected forklift brand - is one of the oldest manufacturers of lift trucks and warehouse equipment in the world, having been in the business of lifting for over 137 years!

On any construction site or farm location in North Queensland the use of an all-terrain forklift is necessary to get the job done efficiently. All-Terrain Forklift Hire and Sales offer the world famous Dieci range, with 2WD and 4WD variants suitable for any commercial or agricultural applications.

Sweeper Solutions

As leaders in the commercial and municipal cleaning space, you’ll be safe in the hands of Hako who have over 70 years of experience and innovation backing their products. Hako’s vision has always been to find new ways of creating innovative and more efficient machines. This drive for excellence has gained them awards for sustainability and smart design.

Our goal is to provide you with the solutions you need, how and when you need them.

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

TravEarth takes to the sky at NQ Field Days

The sky is the limit for small familyowned business that will put its high-tech equipment to the test at the 2024 Rotary NQ Field Days.

TravEarth Drone Services has come on board as a sponsor of this year’s two-day rural and agricultural event at Reid Park, Townsville.

Operating in Townsville since 2019, the company services as far North as the Cape, inland to Julia Creek and south to Mackay.

TravEarth specialises in soil and field analysis, seed planting, targeted/ spot spraying of crops, mapping and surveying, irrigation monitoring and management, and real-time livestock management.

The business will carry out the live drone demonstrations during the Field Days, showcasing the revolutionary work that can be done in the agricultural industry. According to TravEarth, drones offer farmers major cost savings, enhanced efficiency as well as increasing profitability.

Drone are also gaining greater traction in the rural and agricultural sector at tremendous speed.

Owner/operator Travis Van Dooren said drones had revolutionised agriculture by offering farmers major cost savings, enhanced efficiency as well as increasing profitability.

He said drone were gaining greater traction in the rural and agricultural sector at “tremendous speed”.

TravEarth is fully self-sufficient and are equipped with an 800L water tank, chemical mixer, generator and DJI equipment.

“As DJIs only authorised reseller and warranty repair centre in North Queensland, we specialise in providing top-tier drone solutions tailored for the agricultural sector,” Mr Van Dooren said.

“With our deep expertise and commitment to excellence, we’re not just service providers – we’re partners in your success. “

“Whether you’re in need of drone servicing, looking to purchase cuttingedge equipment, or seeking expert guidance on optimizing your operations, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.”

TravEarth also carry all the necessary licencing and accreditation required under Australia’s agricultural and aviation standards as well as being fully insured.

Junior Racers to showcase their skills

Junior thrill seekers will get down and dirty to showcase their skills behind the wheel at the Rotary NQ Field Days.

North Queensland Mower Racing Club is an established adult mower racing club that has been running for about seven years in Townsville, with race meets held in Charters Towers.

The family-orientated club has now branched out to allow juniors to get involved by creating a Dirt Devils division. Club secretary Renee Hanran said the Dirt Devils were suitable for children aged three to about 12 years, before they make the transition into carts.

“It is a one-of-a-kind sport, no other clubs are doing this,” she said.

“If you have a kid that loves the outdoors, this is a great sport for them. It’s also great if you’re out on a farm.

“We have girls and boys that race the dirt devils … they get to about 27km/hr.

North Queensland Mower Racing Club will run mini competition rounds on April 4-5 at Reid Park, Townsville, showcasing their unique Dirt Devils.

“We will still have mowers on display (at the Field Days), but it will be the Dirt Devils that are racing,” she said.

“Our club is one of the biggest in Australia at the moment because we have these kids involved.”

For more details about the NQ Mower Racing Club, visit them on Facebook.

Balancing Act a must see at NQ Field Days

A MAREEBA heavy machinery operator will have visitors on the edge of their seats in a gravity defying show.

Rex Petersen first started performing tricks with his skid-steer 35 years ago and has been honing his skills ever since.

The popular attraction has led Mr Petersen to perform at various events across North Queensland, including the Rotary FNQ Field Days, Mareeba Rodeo, Cairns and Atherton Shows, and even in Sydney.

“Spectators will be in ore of the actual fact that you can put something like that on balance,” he said.

“It’s a three-tonne machine, so to have it on the point of balance is pretty incredible to see.”

“I started doing these skills back in 80s during the supercross days in the arena.”

“Once you’ve been operating skid steers for a length of time you can gather where the balance point is on the machine.”

“Most of it is done on two wheels –the front two wheels or the back two wheels.”

“I look forward to entertaining the crowd and it’s a big hit with the kids too.”

The Skid Steer Skills Show by Rex Petersen will be here on both April 4 and 5 of the Rotary NQ Field Days at Reid Park, Townsville.

It is one of many attractions that visitors can to enjoy at this year’s event.

WHAT’S ON at the field days!

THURSDAY 4 TH APRIL

ROTARY NQ FIELD DAYS OFFICIAL OPENING

10.00am | Located at upstairs Café

DEMONSTRATIONS

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

10.30am | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 11.15am

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 1

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 11.45am

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

1.15pm | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 2.00pm

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 2

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 2.30pm

ATTRACTIONS

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS

View a display of beautifully preserved historical machines, they are located in Zone B.

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel

Gold coin donation to have a Guess with all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors.

You could Win a BBQ!

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

FRIDAY, 5 TH APRIL

DEMONSTRATIONS

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

10.30am | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 11.15am

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 3

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 11.45am

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

1.15pm | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 2.00pm

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Final

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 2.30pm

ATTRACTIONS

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS

View a display of beautifully preserved historical machines, they are located in Zone B.

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel

Gold coin donation to have a Guess with all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors. You could Win a BBQ!

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

NQ Aerovation: Drone Training and Solutions

Whether you’re looking to kickstart a career in drone aviation or integrate UAV technology into your business operations, NQ Aerovation is your local expert in North Queensland.

At NQ Aerovation, the focus is on delivering personalised drone technology solutions that align with the specific needs of each client. Whether it’s selecting the right drone equipment, undergoing pilot training, or integrating UAV services into existing operations, our experienced team (who are also drone aviators) ensure that every investment is well-informed and perfectly suited to the task at hand. It’s about providing solutions that enhance business performance, not just selling technology.

Recognising the importance of skilled operation for safety and efficiency, NQ Aerovation offers CASA-certified remote pilot training and certifications, including XAG and DJI Agriculture Drone Type Endorsements across Queensland. The training programs are designed to cater to all experience levels, ensuring that

students not only gain the technical skills required for drone operation, but also a deep understanding of the safety and environmental standards governing the industry.

Take the Next Step….

For more information about drone training or to inquire about XAG or DJI products, visit www.nqaero.com.au Without

Made in Australia for Australian Farmers

FUCHS offers a comprehensive list of world class lubricants, which meet or exceed all major machinery manufacturers’ performance requirements. No matter what your crops and machinery might be, FUCHS has a specialist lubricant to protect and maintain your equipment investments –both in the paddock and the shed.

The AGRIFARM range offers super high performance multifunctional oils for engines, manual gearboxes, wet brakes, and hydraulic systems for tractors and agricultural machinery.

For highly-loaded commercial vehicles across a variety of diesel and gasoline engines, the TITAN range provides maximum performance with lower oil consumption, and for machinery that requires a premium hydraulic oil that delivers ageing resistance, corrosion protection and wear protection, the RENOLIN range provides a perfect solution.

As part of the Australian landscape for over 100 years, FUCHS is committed to supporting local farmers. As the only lubricants company that

still manufactures lubricants, grease, coolants and additives in Australia, FUCHS continues to invest in local infrastructure, including a world class manufacturing plant in Newcastle, distribution facilities in Cairns and Townsville, and an extensive network of stockists in FNQ to service our regional customers.

FUCHS lubricants is the only lubricants company that still manufactures lubricants, grease, coolants and additives

PH 1800 1800

LUBRICANTS.

Want to find out more about the comprehensive range of FUCHS Lubricants which meet or exceed all major machinery manufacturers’ performance requirements?

Come & visit the FUCHS Lubricants stand at 2024 NQ FIELD DAYS and find out why more people are choosing FUCHS to be their lubricants company.

4th - 5th April 2024

55 – 95 Boundary St - Reid Park, Townsville

SMH Equipment: elevating your Project’s potential

For over 15 years, SMH Equipment has been a trusted supplier of cutting-edge earthmoving machinery to Central Queensland projects. Now, proudly expanding its footprint, SMH announces the inauguration of its Townsville base, extending its modern fleet’s reach to benefit North Queensland projects.

When it comes to keeping your projects running seamlessly with minimal downtime, SMH Equipment stands out. Engage with our approachable team to discover how our modern fleet and agile field service team can elevate your project efficiency.

At SMH, we pride ourselves on a workforce comprising highly skilled workshop diesel fitters, field service technicians, and dedicated support staff, minimising the disruptions to your operations.

Our family-owned and operated business is committed to supporting construction projects in operating more profitably.

We aim to empower regional businesses, enabling them to execute sustainable infrastructure projects efficiently with improved profit margins.

SMH Equipment offers a comprehensive suite of services, including heavy earthmoving equipment rental, servicing, and part supply. Specialising in servicing, repairing, and rebuilding heavy-duty earthmoving equipment, both on and offsite, we are your go-to partner for reliable solutions.

Boasting over 50 late-model, heavy earthmoving machines, SMH Equipment provides diverse options tailored to meet your project’s specific requirements. Our competitive pricing and flexible rental solutions allow you to optimise your project budget without compromising on quality or performance.

Building on established partnerships with reliable suppliers and contractors, SMH Equipment ensures that your job is done

right, maintaining the highest quality standards. With locations in Mount Isa and Townsville, we cater to the Central/ West region and Eastern Seaboard of North Queensland.

As a preferred OEM lubricant supplier for FUCHS in Mount Isa, SMH Equipment guarantees the highest quality across its oil range. Additionally, as a Volvo dealer in Mount Isa, we extend our specific services and skillsets to Volvo machinery in Townsville.

Partner with SMH Equipment today to experience the difference in quality, reliability, and service. Reach out to us to discuss your project needs, and let us tailor a solution that propels your success.

Visit SMH Equipment at stand M 06 or contact us at admin@smhequipment. com.au or 07 4743 6299. Elevate your project with SMH Equipment—where quality meets reliability.

Let’s Grow Together, from Cattle to Cane

We pride ourselves on taking a personalised approach to every business we partner with because we understand it is the uniqueness of your business which makes it successful.

We know the journey to outsourcing because we’ve done it ourselves. In fact, we were born in 2009 when our Brisbane based founders couldn’t find high quality outsourcing workers, so they created a business to solve their problem!

At APT, our outsourcing is not cheap and nasty labour which compromises quality for cost. We provide degree qualified workers who specialise in Australian conditions. Because of this, we can extend your business beyond cost savings, helping you to take the next step in growing your business.

If you’re interested in finding out how we can help make your business the best it can be, give us a call, come visit us online, or even better come see us at the NQ

Field Days! We’re always happy to have a yarn.

From cattle to cane, we can help you and your business.

APT Business Services

270 Adelaide St, Brisbane QLD 4000 www.aptbusinessservices.com.au

(07) 5504 2080

Supporting North Queensland Agribusinesses

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries’ (DAF) North Region team operates across 6 highly diverse agricultural districts: Torres Straits; Cape York Peninsula; Gulf and Northwest, the Atherton Tablelands, Wet Tropical Coast, and the Dry Tropics.

DAF is involved in a range of development proposals including the Lakeland Irrigation Area, the Flinders Unallocated Water Release, Tablelands Regional Water Assessment, Big Rocks Weir, the proposed raising of Burdekin Falls Dam, and management of groundwater within the Burdekin Haughton Water Supply Scheme area.

We are leading research into innovative Protected Area Cropping Systems, with a fit for purpose greenhouse constructed

at Ayr Research Station and collaborative partnerships with leading producers.

The Great Barrier Reef is an important natural asset and DAF is working with industry to develop best practice farming systems that improve productivity and profitability, while minimising impacts to the Reef and its sensitive ecosystems.

Biosecurity is also an important issue in our region, as we prepare for threats such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease, African Swine Fever, and Lumpy Skin Disease.

Call us on 13 25 23 to explore industry development opportunities for your agribusiness.

Visit www.daf.qld.gov.au for information on agriculture, fisheries and forestry.

Without our Partners the 2024 Rotary NQ Field Days would not be possible.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNER

VISIT THEM AT SITE D 5-9

Queensland’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) promotes a sustainable and innovative agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector. We work with industry to support the development of rural businesses, adding value to communities and the economy.

This work ensures that Queensland’s primary industries, which generated over $19 billion of the state’s gross value of production last year, remain a key driver of economic growth.

With offices throughout regional Queensland, DAF is here to help farmers prosper and contribute to a sustainable future.

QldAgriculture

QldAgriculture

DAFQld

Queensland Agriculture

For more information contact 13 25 23 or visit daf.qld.gov.au

Guess the weight of the Bull for Charity

A YOUNG Tablelands bull is set to attract many eyes at the Rotary NQ Field Days as part of an initiative to support the Royal Flying Doctor Service. For a gold coin donation, visitors will have the chance to ‘guess the weight of a bull’ - a new feature of this year’s cattle exhibition.

Nick Trompf of Tallangalook Studs on the Atherton Tablelands will be providing the special Tallangalook T51 that will be the centre of attention.

All proceeds raised from the competition will go to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The winner will be drawn on April 5.

“I’ve chosen this fella because he’s as square as a house brick,” Mr Trompf said.

“It’ll be interesting to see what people guess as his weight, because he’s not the tallest or the longest bull, but he’s built like a brick.

“He’s only a young, he’s 22-months-old Santa Gertrudis/Shorthorn composite bull.”

Organisers of the Townsville agricultural event adopted the idea of the ‘guess the weight of a bull’ competition from the Rotary FNQ Field Days in Mareeba following its huge success.

“When we did this (competition) in Mareeba at the Rotary FNQ Field Days in 2023, two women guessed the weight to the exact kilogram. We had to do a draw of a hat to decide the winner,” Mr Trompf said.

“There’s plenty of knowledge out there about bull weights and it was very popular at Mareeba.

“We’re confident that we’ll raise another couple of thousands of dollars for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which is a wonderful cause and saves a lot of lives right across regional and remote Australia.”

Metalcorp backs regions Primary Producers

A business passionate about working with primary producers right across Northern Australia will be exhibiting at Townsville’s own Field Days for the first time.

Metalcorp Steel Charters Towers is a rural site of BlueScope Steel and has come on board as the sponsor of the cattle exhibition and the ‘guess the weight of the bull’ competition this year. The business will also be donating the prize to the winner of the competition –a two-door gas smoker valued at about $400.

With a strong and innovative history, Metalcorp has developed into one of Australia’s leading rural steel distribution businesses.

Serving the rural community with durable steel products, Metalcorp uses quality Australian-made steel developed with an acute understanding of the needs of North Queensland farmers.

Metalcorp Steel Charters Towers Manager, Adrian Peno said he was looking forward to attending the Rotary NQ Field Days and meeting with current and potential new customers.

“We’ve been going out to the Richmond Field Days for the last 12 years and it is great for product awareness and getting your brand out there,” Mr Peno “(Attending Field Days) is also a chance to share any new innovations that we’ve got for stock handling equipment and in other areas too.”

“We sell a lot of cattle and animal handling equipment, plus we also sell steel.”

“We do have a big clientele … we’ve got people as far as Northern Territory as well as north, south, east and west of Charters Towers. It’s a great little hub that we’ve got in Charters Towers.”

“We can service a widespread area of North Queensland.”

Mr Peno said the Metalcorp Steel site will also feature a unique virtual experience that visitors can get involved in.

“There will be a virtual cattle yard set up at our site. You put on your goggles and you can walk around the cattle yards as if you’re actually there,” he said.

“Instead of just looking at a plan of a cattle yard, you can actually walk around a change it up before implementing the cattle yards onto your property.”

Connecting Growers with the World

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables is Australia’s largest sugar manufacturer, with eight sugar factories located across the Herbert, Burdekin, Proserpine and Sarina regions.

The company processes more than 15 million tonnes of sugarcane a year to produce about 2.1 million tonnes of raw sugar. Most of this sugar is exported to Asian markets.

Wilmar is also part of Wilmar International – Asia’s leading agribusiness group and one of the world’s largest sugar traders.

On a local level, this means growers who choose Wilmar as their GEI sugar marketer have unparalleled access to Wilmar’s global reach and marketing expertise.

Wilmar’s Grower Marketing team offers growers a range of competitive pooling, pricing and payment options that are easy to navigate and easy to use.

The team operates locally in each of Wilmar’s milling regions, assisting growers to understand the pricing mechanisms available to manage GEI exposure, as well as the payment options to manage their cash flow throughout the year.

‘Northern Australia’s Biggest Field Days’

28 - 30 MAY, 2025

MAREEBA RODEO GROUNDS

fnqfielddays.org.au

Rotary Gives Back

The clubs behind the NQ Field Days represent the true spirit of community.

There are 10 clubs involved in the event – 8 from Townsville and two from the Burdekin. Robin Strang, Area Governor Group 3 (Townsville), said Rotary received strong support in the region.

“People are willing to become members as it’s a way to give back to the community,” Ms. Strang said.

“Rotary provides an opportunity for businesses to network, but mostly people

Rotary Projects

Ayr

The Rotary Club of Ayr focuses on the following main projects to raise funds for our Community.

The Club sells advertising in a community phone book every year, with all the funds raised going to a community raffle. School & sporting groups are united to sell tickets in the raffle, with a high prize pool. All of the profits go direct to the groups who sell the tickets.

In May, the Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race is held in the creek running through Plantation Park. Ducks are “raced “ down the creek. Funds raised go back to the Community from the high prize pool. In 2023 the beneficiaries were Ayr Health Service & Ayr Life Saving Club.

Our Club continues to support various needs identified throughout the year as they arise. We are hoping to commence a once only night time Christmas Market later this year.

Ross River

The Rotary Club Of Ross River has one of the students that we supported in schooling in Vietnam now continue to support her through her University years. We have 2 annual Academic awards to assist with their fees for Students at: Veterinary Science School & Tech NQ. Our main income is from the set up & pack up of the Strand Markets & from this we support: Food Relief NQ, Angel Flight, Legacy and Down Syndrome NQ.

Mundingburra

One of the club’s most recent projects is the manufacture of handmade wooden toys & homewares. A small team operates from a home workshop to produce up to 60 individual pieces. These items are sold at various markets, events, & online as a fundraiser.

Mundingburra Rotary uses monies raised through the sale of the wooden toys & homewares, Bunnings sausage sizzles, Rotary markets & container recycling to support many projects such as Guide Dogs Qld with whom Mundingburra has a 60-year association & Family Emergency Accommodation Townsville.

Mundingburra Rotary will have a stall at the Field Days with a display of the handmade woodwork.

are happy to give back to the community that they are living in.”

The Townsville clubs behind the field days are a part of a region that extends north to Timor Leste and south to Maryborough.

There are 280 members in the Townsville clubs, all of which raise funds through various avenues and donate to worthy community causes.

Port of Townsville

The Rotary Club of Port of Townsville spreads the fruits of its fundraising efforts across a number of different projects including Townsville Tennis Junior Tennis Sponsorship, Birthing Chair in Cambodia, Flourishing Women Charity, ThaetreiNQ, Kenyan Student Sponsorship, Arcadian Surf Lifesaving Club as well as The Rotary Foundation, Polio Plus & ShelterBox Australia.

For a number of years we have supported the North Queensland Domestic Violence Resource Centre & the Domestic Violence Women’s Centre.

Thuringowa Central

Home Starter Packs

These packs assist with the costs to homeless people when they finally get accommodation. They include practical items such as bed sheets, doonas, cutlery, cleaning products and the basics, right down to washing pegs & coffee cups. Available in Single Packs, and Family Packs, RC Thuringowa Central supply these Home Starter Packs to a Local Organisation who assist the displaced/homeless to gain stable accommodation. These packs reduce the initial costs of moving in providing immediate practical assistance & dignity.

Townsville Central

14 Insulin Pumps have been given to children in the Townsville Hospitals catchment area with one going out west, one going to Ingham and one to Ayr. Internationally we have supported a charity called Jifunze international to support people in Kitengela, Kenya. Programs include support for medical equipment, training in first aid & employment opportunities.

For the past 6 years we have also supported “Healthy Minds,” a program run in Townsville Schools to help young people develop skills to improve their mental health & develop leadership skills. Rotary lnternational’s major project is the eradication of Polio. We support this project & since Rotary became involved the numbers of new Polio cases throughout the world have dropped from 500,000 per year to 12 in 2023. Two countries remain endemic with 6 cases in both Pakistan & Afghanistan.

Townsville Daybreak

Assists Story Dogs, helping children who have difficulty learning to read.

Townsville Toy Library - for young families, to lower the expense of buying toys. The Challenge Games - providing breakfast for the children from all over our region on game day at the Townsville Sports Reserve Kenya - supporting a young Kenyan man (for the last 12 years) from Wounds Clinic to Nursing to becoming a GP Doctor with an ongoing Specialty in Obstetrics, to be completed 2024.

Townsville Sunrise

The biggest club in the District, provides ongoing support to various programs and causes throughout the local community. Sunrise are proud to provide their Rotary Red Socks program which provides early detection of men’s prostate cancer, launched the Starfish Nippers program at the Strand that provides a specially designed program for kids with disabilities, along with sponsoring 10 local schoolkids through The Smith Family, among other projects.

Townsville

The Rotary Club of Townsville takes pride in its significant impact both locally & globally, having directed over $150,000 towards community projects in the last two years. From installing solar panels at The Salvation Army Recovery Centre to providing diabetic children with insulin pumps, we’ve been at the forefront of fostering sustainable development & healthcare. Our efforts extend to supporting animal welfare with Angel Paws, enhancing patient care through equipment for The Good Shepherd Home, & improving women’s health internationally with reusable sanitary products. With a spirit of service, our members also dedicate their time to maintenance & handyman work, reinforcing our commitment to the wellbeing of Townsville. We are more than a club; we are a collective of individuals who believe in action, compassion, & making a tangible difference.

Townsville Saints

Townsville Saints have been keeping busy with creating, opening and maintaining, in conjunction with Townsville City Council, the Forever Garden at Belgian Garden Cemetery. We are supporting outback charities such as Bush Ed and Mother’s in Arms to give support to Mothers, children and families in the outback.

Home Hill

We donated $1500 to St. Vincent de Paul to help provide hampers at Christmas & to help prepare school packs that supplied writing materials & other items to children who were in need.

Another small project was to support the attendance of seven science students from Home Hill High to allow them to compete in a statewide science competition. Our $700 donation helped our high school take the winning team to Brisbane.

NQ Field Days is a combined project of Rotary Clubs

Townsville and the Burdekin

Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbours, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

WHAT WE DO

Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues.

Our 46,000+ clubs work together to:

• Promote peace

• Fight disease

• Provide clean water, sanitation & hygiene

• Save mothers and children

• Support education

• Grow local economies

• Protect the environment

WE THANK OUR EVENT PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

BM Webb

Bayswater Radiators

Bluescope Steel/Metalcorp Steel

Ede Events

FUCHS Lubricants Australia

Gough Plastics

North Queensland Register

Sunrise | Central | Port of Townsville | Townsville | Saints | Mundingburra

Thuringowa | Ross River

Ayr | Home Hill

ROTARY CLUBS OF TOWNSVILLE AND THE BURDEKIN

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