Livingstone Shire Council is committed to unlocking the region’s potential to build an exciting agri-food/tourism economy. The future of Livingstone Shire’s economic growth is expected to be significantly enhanced by investment and employment in industries like agribusiness and agritourism.
With ideal soils and climate for high yields across a diverse range of food products, the region is poised to develop a variety of value-added agricultural products. This diversity strengthens local supply chains, reduces food miles and transport costs, and boosts local food security—creating greater resilience for our communities, particularly during disasters and challenging events.
Farmers on the Capricorn Coast have exciting opportunities to create high-value agricultural and food products while tapping into the growing agritourism sector. Every farm has the potential to diversify into agritourism, offering unique experiences, innovative products, and exceptional hospitality to visitors. This growing visitor economy provides new revenue streams while highlighting the region's rich agricultural heritage.
Through the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery funding, the Economic Development Team collaborated with Regionality Pty Ltd to deliver the Agritourism Development Program. This initiative focused on creating a supportive environment for farm-based innovation and agritourism, while developing a Shire-specific Agritourism Roadmap. The key outcomes of the program include:
- Support for small agribusinesses to diversify and add value to their core businesses, fostering sustainability and resilience in rural communities.
- Development and enhancement of agribusiness, food, and farm-based artisan products and experiences to increase the range and quality of agritourism offerings.
- Creation of a "How to Guide" for agritourism businesses, alongside the ongoing development of the Agritourism Roadmap, providing clear strategies for continued growth.
Livingstone Shire Council’s goal is to ensure that these agritourism ventures remain viable, feasible, and desirable, driving economic growth and delivering strong returns for farmers, their families, and the community.