In late April, Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) CEO, Leanne Erakovic, travelled to Far North Queensland to connect directly with growers and hear firsthand about the challenges and opportunities currently impacting the industry. 

The visit included on-farm meetings, a workforce workshop, and informal coffee catchups with growers throughout the Cassowary Coast region. These conversations provided valuable opportunities for members to openly discuss the issues most affecting their businesses, particularly the ongoing fuel and fertiliser cost pressures. 

A key priority for ABGC is ensuring growers’ voices are heard at all levels of government. Feedback gathered during the visit is helping inform advocacy efforts and government roundtable discussions, ensuring real on-ground experiences are represented in conversations around industry support and relief measures. 

Leanne’s visit also focused heavily on workforce and compliance matters. Alongside ABGC, representatives from Australian Border Force, the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR), and the Pacific Island Council Queensland (PICQ) participated in a dedicated Workforce Workshop aimed at supporting growers with practical information and guidance. 

As part of ABGC’s ongoing member engagement activities, Damon Patmore from Australian Border Force will also participate in an exclusive online Q&A session for members on Friday 22 May at 12:30pm. Members interested in attending can register by emailing [email protected].