BIOLOGICAL soil improvement company Multikraft Probiotics Australia has established a new facility in the horticulture hub of Bundaberg, Queensland.
The company officially opened its new premises as part of a tour of Queensland with international guests in October, Multikraft international CEO Lukas Hader and UK-based head of research Andy Barker.
The new operational base in Bundaberg is called the Multikraft Australian Biotech Agricultural Centre of Excellence (BACE), and has been designed to provide an opportunity for knowledge transfer and development of sustainable agricultural practices.
Multikraft specialises in the use of beneficial micro-organisms that can be used to produce high quality composts.
The ultimate goal is for maximum profitability and minimal chemical fertilisers and pesticides for farmers, leading to the nutritious, high quality end product for consumers.
Multikraft has been working with the University of Queensland and Central Queensland University, as well as regional groups including the Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (BFVG) and Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG) combined with local, state and federal Governments.
We have also seen a quantum shift in the mentality of many of the larger, most well respected farmers in the region...
- Conor O'Brien, CEO, Multikraft Aust
Bundaberg was chosen as the best location for the facility for several reasons, particularly its proximity to the start of the Great Barrier Reef and the potential for using the technology to reduce run-off and farming impact on the waterways and the reef itself.
The Queensland tour involved a visit to UQ, plus a visit to various farms using or trialling Multikraft products including macadamia, avocado and chilli farms.
CEO of Multikraft Priobiotics Australia Conor O’Brien said Bundaberg was an ideal fit for the company.
"We have also seen a quantum shift in the mentality of many of the larger, most well respected farmers in the region, who are looking to a more long-term approach, where soil and plant health is paramount to producing the most profitable, high quality and nutritious product, for educated consumers who also want clean, green foods," Mr O'Brien said.