That’s a wrap on the classroom portion of our Grow National 10-week program!
This month, we successfully completed the classroom sessions of Grow National, and I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved. From our industry experts to our passionate participants, your contributions have made this journey truly special. Special thanks to Katrina Brennan and Zeona Murray from SRJ Walker Wayland – Sunshine Coast for supporting the program and providing expert insights. A big shout out as well to Will Nicholl, Gail Macleod, and Bernard Parker for your guidance and industry knowledge. Missed out on the first 1 day workshop – due to popular demand we’re hosting a second section on Tuesday 24th September – BOOK HERE.
But that’s not all—this month was also FANtastic for Queensland Sunshine Pantry!
We went live at The Station as part of The Curated Plate, where over 1,200 punters enjoyed the tasty delights of 60+ of our amazing members. It was a delicious success and a great showcase of what our region has to offer. A huge thanks to the teams from The Station, The Curated Plate, Sunshine Coast Council, Visit Sunshine Coast—and finally, Zoe Sparks!
All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the truly phenomenal effort of the FAN team, who always go above and beyond to make these programs and events a reality.
A huge thanks Anna, Bec, Bek, Sam, Misha, and Jacki!
Nicole McNaughton
FAN CEO
Table of Contents
FAN Events
Grow National
Pictured L to R: Grow National Class of 2024
Martin & Regine Rellstab – Sunshine Coast Cider | Teneille Newton – Noosa Black Garlic | Kellie Marshall – Tea Shop | Gary Hagen – Ibis Brewing Co | Brad Robinson – Cooee Coffee Co | Karen Lindsay – Little White Goat Cheese | Jess Holdsworth – Love My Earth | Leisa Sams – Hum Honey | Sam Musson – Zest Element | CC Diaz-Petersen – Woolooga Farm Kitchen
not pictured: Allison McGruddy – My Berries | Glenn Carseldine – Pinnacle Beverages | Ed Wright – Bamboo Parko.
Celebrating Success with Grow National
We’ve just wrapped up our first successful round of the Grow National 10-week program, where our passionate cohort delved deep into strategies for scaling their food and beverage businesses. This program has been instrumental in helping participants unlock new opportunities, refine their business models, and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. We’re incredibly proud of the progress each member has made and the innovative ideas that have emerged from this dynamic group.
As we celebrate these achievements, we’re also gearing up for Fine Food in Melbourne, where some of our Grow National graduates will showcase their products under Queensland Sunshine Pantry. This is an exciting opportunity for them to bring their brands to a national stage, and we’re eager to see the impact they’ll make. Stay tuned for updates and be sure to visit us in Melbourne, 2-5 September!
Seed to Sprout Tuesday 24th September
Join us for FAN’s Grow National “Seed to Sprout” workshop on Tuesday, 24th September, your gateway to mastering the food business landscape. This comprehensive one-day event held at UniSC is designed for both emerging and established food entrepreneurs.
This one day workshop is packed with actionable insights and includes handouts applicable to any food business. Reserve your spot now and elevate your food business to new heights!
Grow National is supported by funding from the Advance Queensland Accelerating Female Founders Program and Turbine.
Grow National is also supported by SRJ Walker Wayland, Regional Development Australia Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast Council, Noosa Council and Moreton Bay Regional Council.
Sunshine Pantry
Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry: A Tasty Triumph at The Station!
We are celebrating the overwhelming success of our inaugural Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry live at The Station! Held on Sunday, 28 July, as part of The Curated Plate, this event truly captured the essence of our vibrant region.
With 57 incredible stallholders showcasing the best of our local produce, artisan goods, and unique businesses, the event attracted over 1,200 attendees who enjoyed a feast of offerings. The energy was electric, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the quality and passion of our local producers.
This event was more than just a market; it was a celebration of community, bringing people together and fostering connections. We’re proud of the high standard set and excited to continue supporting our local food and agribusiness sector with more events and initiatives.
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry. Your enthusiasm makes our community special.
Until next time, keep celebrating local!
Upcoming Grants
ON Accelerate A three-month free commercialisation acceleration program for entrepreneurial researchers ready to translate their idea into a research-driven company. Focuses on business models, market validation, storytelling, and capital raising. Up to $180,000 per team. Closes 18 August 2024.
Drought Challenge AgTech Venture Program Aims to launch a new generation of agtech ventures focused on drought and climate resilience, backed by world-class Australian expertise. Applications for the next Drought Challenge open in September 2024.
Australia-Singapore Go-Green Co-Innovation Program (GGCIP) Facilitates collaboration between Australian SMEs and Singaporean businesses on projects driving decarbonisation or transitioning to net zero emissions. Closes 14 November 2024.
Fisheries Structural Adjustment Scheme – Stage 3 Provides payments to former holders and lessees of primary commercial fishing licenses to surrender usable nets. Part of the $125 million scheme supporting those affected by fishery closures in the Great Barrier Reef region and new gillnet-free areas in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Closes 30 January 2025, or until funds are exhausted.
Fisheries Structural Adjustment Scheme – Stage 3 Provides payments to eligible businesses to diversify if they relied on fish taken under a primary commercial fishing license with now-retired symbols (N1, N2, N4) from Great Barrier Reef fisheries or parts of the Great Sandy region. Closes 30 January 2025, or until funds are exhausted.
National Horticulture Roadshow Supports and enhances regional horticultural events, fostering collaboration and delivering direct benefits to participants across the horticulture supply chain and local communities. Check the link for upcoming event dates and locations.
National Farmers Federation – AgCAREERSTART Program This program connects farmers with young Australians for a 10-12 month gap-year in agriculture, providing jobs, training, and development grants. Host-farmers offer paid, full-time employment and share skills and industry insights. Up to $2,000. Opens 22 July, closes 29 September 2024.
City of Moreton Bay, Noosa Council & Sunshine Coast Council have partnered with Grant Guru to assist community and business groups, along with local businesses, to find grants and funding opportunities. This free Funding Finder allows you to search for available grants to help grow your business or project. Visit the Grant Funding Finders: MORETON BAY, NOOSA, SUNSHINE COAST
Thanks to the Successful Grants team who have provided the above information. Please contact the team if you would like to chat about how they can support you.
Member News
Congratulations to Jenny Lawson and Teneille Newton! 🎉 We’re excited to celebrate Jenny Lawson and Teneille Newton for their outstanding achievements at the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network Awards! Your hard work, dedication, and leadership are truly inspiring. Here’s to your continued success and the positive impact you’re making in our community!
🎉 Congratulations to Kakadu Organics! We’re happy to announce that Kakadu Organics is a finalist in the 2024 Premier of Queensland’s Export Awards. Your commitment to sustainable practices and quality has truly set you apart. Wishing you the best of luck in the final round!
Australia’s Best Rum Distillery: Nil Desperandum has claimed the prestigious title of Australia’s Best Rum at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards. Competing against 12 top entries, their unique rum stood out, solidifying the Sunshine Coast’s reputation in the craft spirits industry. Read more here.
Congratulations to all FAN Finalists! We are happy to announce that Mountain Wine Tours, Annie Lane Café, Hip Hops Brewers, Ibis Brewing Company, Red Fox Orchids, and Yajambee Farms are among the finalists for the 2024 Moreton Bay Business and Innovation Awards! Best of luck to all finalists at the gala awards night on Friday, 18 October at Eatons Hill Hotel!
Congratulations to The Chilli Tribe for Winning 5 Trophies at the 2024 Mr Chilli Awards!
🥇 Indian Spiced Mango Chutney
🥇 Kasundi Ketchup
🥇 Plum and Ginger
🥇 Coffee, Black Pepper, and Peach
🥈 Raspberry Prosecco
Congratulations to Beachtree Distilling Co – Australia’s BEST Liqueur! Beachtree’s Native Plum & Sloe Liqueur has been named Australia’s BEST Liqueur at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards! Crafted from sloe berries and Ooray Davidson plums, this gluten-free liqueur is a true standout. Cheers to this incredible achievement team!
Congratulations to Silvertongue Foods on winning Gold at the Melbourne Royal Show 2024 with their Spiced Pickled Orange! Scoring 96/100, this achievement follows their Champion of Sweet and Gold Medal at the Royal Hobart Show 2023. Your dedication and passion are truly inspiring. Here’s to more success!
Member Resources & Opportunities
Queensland Small Business Support Network Access free advice and support tailored to your small business needs through Queensland’s Small Business Support Network. Connect with expert mentors, attend workshops, and find resources to help you start, grow, or manage your business successfully.
Learn more here.
Webinar: How Australians are Shopping for Fresh Produce in 2024 Join the team from Hort Innovation to discover how rising costs are changing fresh produce shopping habits. Join Cori Hodge and Mel Hucker from Fiftyfive5 for insights on cost-saving behaviours, shopping frequency, and spending patterns. Tuesday, 20 August, 11am-12pm (AEST) RSVP: Zoom link.
CSIRO Innovate to Grow: Food Innovation Program – Applications are open for this free 10-week virtual program for Australian SMEs to advance their innovative food ideas with R&D support. Includes self-paced learning, networking, and expert feedback.
Applications close: 25 August 2024
Apply online here.
Coonawarra Wine Tasting Roadshow For the first time, the Coonawarra Wine Tasting Roadshow comes to the Sunshine Coast! Join 18 premium producers at the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club on Friday, 16 August, 2-5 pm. Tickets are $75pp + booking fee, including tastings, a souvenir wine glass, and a charcuterie grazing station. Reserve your ticket here.
Drought Management Workshop Discuss drought management ideas and learn about drought preparedness at this free workshop. Discover how to access Drought Preparedness Grants and other support measures. 27 August 2024. RSVP: By 26 August 2024 (Register here) Enquiries contact: Keira Sharman at 0436 631 612 or [email protected]
Female Founders Showcase: Something Tech 2024 Expressions of interest are now open for female founders to exhibit at the Something Tech 2024 showcase! The event takes place on Thursday, 29 August, from 5pm-7pm at Howard Smith Wharves. Share this opportunity with your network. For inquiries, contact the RCL team at [email protected].
Open Innovation Forum Attend the City of Moreton Bay Supplier Briefing and Open Innovation Forum to pitch your technology, products, or ideas to Council. Help solve challenges like smart gates for accessibility and using cameras on garbage trucks to monitor conditions. Thursday, 29 August, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Cost: FREE (registration essential)
Everything Ag! – The Moreton Bay Agriculture Field Day Join us at the Pine Rivers Showground, Lawnton, on Wednesday, 4 September, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Promote your business, engage with students and the community, and explore career opportunities in agriculture. Network with industry peers and discover additional workforce and training opportunities. Register your business here.
Agvention: Australia’s Regenerative Ag Field Day – Join the Kandanga Farm Store team on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 9am-5:30pm for an exciting day of talks, farm walks, and demos. Enjoy a delicious lunch and an afternoon sundowner session with weedy edibles. Early bird entry: $49.50 adults | $25 under 18 | school groups free Buy Tickets and Details: agvention.com.au
Career Talks at Kawana Waters State College Engage with students in a speed networking format, sharing career journeys and industry insights. Promote your organisation as a future pathway for students. Commitment to child safety is required. Year 9 Students – Wednesday, 21 August 2024 – Register Here. Year 11 Students – Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – Register Here.
Tourism Business Digital Adaption Program Enhance your tourism business with the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Digital Adaption Program. Access expert guidance, tools, and resources to improve your online presence, streamline operations, and attract more customers. Perfect for businesses looking to thrive in the digital age. Learn more: QTIC Digital Adaption Program
Showcase Your Sustainable Innovation! Got a product or service that promotes sustainability? Innovate Moreton Bay’s Sustainability Demo Day being held 26 September, is your chance to pitch to industry leaders and gain valuable feedback. Open to businesses and social enterprises.
EOIs now open: Submit here
Digital Solutions: Digital Action Plan Boost your small business’s online presence with a tailored Digital Action Plan. Access expert advice, tools, and resources to enhance your digital marketing, e-commerce, and overall online strategy. Perfect for businesses looking to thrive in the digital landscape. Get started here.
Our Supporters
Special thanks to FAN’s Partners and Sponsors who provide significant resources towards the ongoing sustainability of FAN and the growth and resilience of our regions’ food and agribusiness industry.
