Gippsland is emerging as a leader in the development of an industrial hemp industry, bringing together community, industry, government, and key organisations to explore opportunities for growth. After the inaugural Round Table in September in Tinamba, the work has advanced with an important meeting of minds and interest at the Orbost Hemp Forum this month (November 18-19). Representatives from the Future of Orbost & District Project, Victorian Hemp Association, Australian Hemp Council, and Food & Fibre Gippsland joined forces with local stakeholders to advance collaboration and continue to chart a path forward.

Food & Fibre Gippsland (F&FG) is pleased to share important news about our team structure, designed to strengthen the sector’s resilience and foster ongoing innovation in drought management across Gippsland. This change reflects our commitment to ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for our food and fibre industry.

50th Anniversary of Lardner Park Steer Trial Showcases Industry Insights and Opportunity

This month Food & Fibre Gippsland’s Brodie Anderson, Project Manager – Resilience and Innovation, and Rod Hayes, Senior Manager – Resilience and Innovation, attended the Lardner Park Beef Field Day, a cornerstone event in Gippsland’s food and fibre calendar on November 14th. The field day this year marked a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of the Lardner Park Steer Trial.

Opal and European Energy Australia have announced an exciting new collaboration that marks a significant step toward advancing renewable energy and circular economy initiatives in Gippsland. The companies have commenced a feasibility study at Opal’s Maryvale Paper Mill to assess the potential for carbon capture of biogenic CO₂ and its conversion into e-methanol, a sustainable fuel.