17 November 2025. Niki Ford, AgForce CEO.
This week I had the privilege of visiting Belmont Station, a place that holds a remarkable and enduring legacy in our region.
Belmont is not just another patch of land; it represents more than 50 years of internationally recognised breed research.
For decades, the work undertaken here positioned Central Queensland at the forefront of innovation in cattle production, shaping industry standards and strengthening our reputation as a powerhouse of agricultural excellence.
To stand on that landscape is to stand in the footprints of generations of scientists, producers and educators who helped advance Australian agriculture.
I was joined on the visit by the members of the Belmont committee - Shane McCarthy, Louise Martin and Boyd Webb - whose passion and commitment to the future of the station are unmistakable.
Their stewardship is grounded not only in a deep respect for Belmont's history, but also in a clear, strategic vision for what it can once again become.
It's reassuring to see local leaders working with such purpose and determination, and I want to acknowledge their ongoing efforts championing the station's renewal.
The handover discussions with AgForce staff (Noel, Phil and John) reflected this same shared resolve. Their wealth of experience and long-standing connection to Belmont were evident throughout the visit.
They carry with them decades of knowledge about the station's operations, its research legacy and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The handover wasn't just a formality; it was a practical reminder that Belmont's history matters. But its future will depend on people working together, trying new ideas and strengthening local partnerships.
One of the most encouraging parts of the visit was seeing firsthand the educational potential that Belmont continues to offer. Strengthening ongoing partnerships with institutions such as Central Queensland University (CQUniversity) and Rockhampton Grammar School is essential for this vision.
These collaborations are not only about giving students hands-on exposure to real-world agriculture and research - they are also about inspiring the next generation of scientists, producers and leaders who will carry forward the work that Belmont helped pioneer.
The opportunities for training, field-based learning and industry integration are immense, and the broader agriculture industry stands to benefit greatly from them.
Of course, there is a lot of work ahead. Restoring Belmont Station to its former glory requires continued investment, careful planning and the combined efforts of government, industry, and education stakeholders.
But if this visit highlighted anything, it was the shared belief - from committee members, local leaders, educators and community supporters - that this dream is both achievable and worthwhile.
Ultimately, the trip to Belmont Station was highly productive and deeply inspiring. It reinforced to me not only the historical significance of the station but also the genuine passion that exists across Central Queensland to see it thrive once more.
By honouring its past and committing to its future, we have an opportunity to rebuild a place that has contributed so much to our region - and will, with the right support, continue to do so for generations to come.
