- A state-of-the-art facility in Emerald could process 200,000 head of cattle annually, driving innovation and efficiencies in Queensland's beef industry.
- The project has the potential to create over 180 construction jobs and more than 400 operational jobs, delivering significant economic benefits.
- Prescribed project status to ensure streamlined approvals to fast-track this development.
The Crisafulli Government has declared the Central Highland Iona Project a 'prescribed project', opening the door for a development that has the potential to boost beef processing in the state and drive economic development in our regions.
Located in Emerald, the proposed Iona project will feature a state-of-the-art beef processing facility powered by cutting-edge technologies, including robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence, enhancing processing industry innovation.
In addition to its advanced processing capabilities, the project proposes a feedlot, rendering plant, cogeneration and biogas facilities, bio-nutrient processing, and a water treatment plant.
The prescribed project is expected to create 188 construction jobs and 427 operational jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy in the Central Highlands. It also offers opportunities to advance feedlot research and development, creating broader benefits for Queensland's agricultural sector.
The Iona Project aligns with the Crisafulli Government's commitment to advancing the future of agriculture, and equipping Queenslanders with the skills needed for the AgTech jobs of the future.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie said the prescribed project declaration provides the Coordinator-General with the necessary powers to ensure timely approval processes, working in partnership with the local government to fast-track the project.
"After a decade of neglect by Labor, the Crisafulli Government is determined to streamline regional project approvals to deliver more job-creating investment and expand Queensland's primary industries," Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"Queensland is Australia's greatest cattle producer and the LNP is backing our graziers and beef industry by partnering with the private sector to further grow the industry.
"The Iona Project has the potential to enhance Queensland's beef processing capabilities while creating economic development opportunities across regional Queensland."
Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett said this project was a shining example of the potential for the growth and development of primary industries across regional Queensland and an exciting development for central Queensland beef producers.
"We are determined to increase the value of primary industries to $30 billion by 2030 and it's the prioritisation and development of projects like this that will see us surpass this target and grow regional economies," Minister Perrett said.
"This is more evidence that confidence in agriculture and an appetite to invest in the sector has grown under an LNP Government that values and respects agriculture.
"The proposal to use industry leading, state of the art technology to overcome challenges the processing sector currently faces, is further evidence of the sectors capacity to embrace technology, adapt and grow."
Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development and Member for Gregory Sean Dillon welcomed the declaration, highlighting its potential impact on Queensland's agricultural industry and regional economies.
"This project represents a significant opportunity to boost productivity and profitability across our beef supply chain while ensuring Queensland's producers remain globally competitive," Mr Dillon said.
"By taking advantage of innovative technologies, the Iona Project could help future-proof Queensland's beef industry and open the door to new markets and greater export opportunities."
"Ensuring this capacity can be developed at Emerald will help deliver expanded processing numbers in Queensland instead of that being exported to southern states."
Queensland Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan welcomed the declaration, emphasising the project's potential contribution to Queensland's agricultural future.
"This declaration highlights the Crisafulli Government's commitment to supporting transformative projects in regional areas," said Mr Coggan.
"My office will work closely with the proponents and relevant agencies to ensure the project progresses efficiently and meets all necessary requirements."
Martin Laffer, Managing Director of Northern Australian Agrifoods Pty Ltd (NAA) said the Iona Project represents a significant milestone for not only Queensland's beef industry but Queensland's Agricultural sector in general through collaboration, innovative thinking, risk acknowledgement and management and bipartisan support with government and many other industries.
"The benefit involved in a Project such as this far outweighs the risk, it future proofs our existing businesses and helps insure market access for the future. There are many hurdles to overcome, by collaborating with the Queensland State Government these hurdles can be mitigated while presenting to the wider community an example of optimism for a bright future no matter what the industry. Collaboration is not simple but highly productive with us all keeping the endgame in focus," Mr Laffer said.
"By integrating advanced technologies such as automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence, we are setting a new standard for innovation and efficiency in beef processing.
"With sustainability at the core of this project, we are committed to minimising environmental impact through initiatives like cogeneration, biogas facilities, and advanced water treatment systems.
"This project reflects our confidence in Queensland's beef industry, and we are excited to work with the Queensland Government to deliver meaningful benefits to regional communities and position Queensland as a leader in sustainable agriculture."
