While researching the pressures facing modern farming, I came across the concept of a two-tiered or two-speed economy. What surprised me most was discovering that I am far from alone in my concerns: many people across agriculture are also questioning the growth of a two-tier economy.

What started as a grower's idea to improve pineapple harvesting is becoming a working reality, with growers getting a firsthand look at the latest prototype during the 2026 Pineapple Field Days held recently in Hervey Bay.

In the rich volcanic soils of Lakeland, three hours north of Cairns, Red Valley Farms stands as a powerful example of what long-term vision, calculated risk, and family commitment can achieve.

As a grower, following food trends can open doors to new markets, provide an extra income stream, and even reinvigorate your passion for farming.

Skybury is a FNQ institution and Candy plays a significant role in her family’s operations of the papaya and coffee farm and their value-add ventures. 

Deb Nucifora became a mango grower after marrying her beloved John 34 years ago, but you’d swear she’d been doing it all her life.

Love and laughter filled the shed as we spoke with mother and daughter Debbie and Tina Caamano about their family and their farms.

Continuously searching for knowledge and an even better cup of coffee, Lucy is at the beginning of a horticulture revolution on the Atherton Tablelands.

Ashbern Farms has seen their hard work and exceptional organic on-farm practices recognised by Australian Organic, with co-owner Brendon Hoyle being named as the 2022 Australian Organic Farmer of the Year.

Samboy, Thins, Kettle Chips and Natural Chip Company; the snacks that go crunch in your mouth and keep you coming back for more.

Had you asked Lachlan and Annaleise Donovan 25 years ago if they’d be running a thriving horticulture enterprise employing over 100 people, forging export opportunities, and managing ten avocado orchards, they might have laughed you out the door.

Granite Belt farming enterprise, Taylor Family Produce, has been growing vegetables in Queensland for over a century. Today the business grows iceberg and cos lettuce, celery, silverbeet, wombok cabbage and cauliflower across 344 hectares of land spanning two locations.

Bellenden Ker exotic tropical fruit grower, Josh Maunder is forging a new direction for the industry investigating improved methods of production centered around cyclone resilience, production capacity and profitability.

The Australian pineapple industry is taking a proactive approach to improving environmental outcomes and enterprise sustainability with a number of industry-led research and development trials currently underway across the state.