Our Members
Agriculture isn't just about farmers, it's about dynamic communities dedicated to supplying Queensland, Australia, and the world.
Meet some of our members who make it all possible, and connect with us on social media to learn more about their incredible contributions.
Anthony "Bim" Struss
Mitchell
Bim Struss is a third-generation farmer running cattle on 'Havelock', 50km north of Mitchell. Having purchased 'Havelock' in 1948, Bim and his family have cared for their country for more than 60 years, whilst breeding Hereford cattle.
​
“It’s pretty special country on 'Havelock'. The land spans from Maranoa River flats out to better Brigalow/Belah country which has been well developed,” he says.“When you’re born and bred on the land and you understand what makes it tick, it becomes very important in your life to make sure that it not only serves you, but that you serve it.”
Bim says rural towns rely on agriculture.
​
“It’s a natural fabric to a lot of towns. Most rural towns are based around some kind of agriculture, out here in Mitchell it’s cattle, sheep and goats.”
​
All of Bim's children are involved in agriculture in some way. “We’re lucky we have a generation of children that love what we do and want to continue it."
Craig Emerson
Proserpine
Craig Emmerson is a 5th generation farmer from the Proserpine region. Craig with the help of his five children, operate a cane farm and contracting business.
​
With his family settling in the region in 1864, Craig is a long-time member of the community. Involved in the local show, his children having attended school and undertaking apprenticeships in the area, he sees the way producers drive growth in rural regions.
​
As a member of the AgForce Cane Board, he encourages an "open door policy" for other producers in the region to have conversations about challenges within the industry.
​
“It’s important we share information with one another to keep our industry going and our communities strong,” he said.
Stephen and Annabel Tully
Quilpie
Stephen Tully is a Merino, Goat and Cattle farmer on 'Bunginderry Station, near Quilpie. He along with wife Annabel, run their 73,000 hectares with support from their five children.
​
Stephen says Quilpie wouldn’t exist without farming. “Almost everyone in Quilpie is connected to a farmer. If you have a growing agricultural industry, you have more teachers in rural schools, more nurses and more young people in the cafes.”
​
Stephen says it’s important the agricultural industry is supported so young people are attracted to it. “It’s about confidence in Industry, young people don’t want to join an industry if it’s not prosperous and a lot of this comes down to policy. If they don’t see it as a supported, substantial industry, they will go to another.”
​
Stephen and Annabelle's eldest son Lachlan recognises how important it is for young people to bring innovation to farms. “Some older farmers can be stuck in their ways; it’s important young people have the incentive to go into agriculture and share their new ideas and technologies.” He also says young people play an important role in creating a sense of community in rural areas.
​
“Socialising is important to young people, especially in isolated areas when you can’t just pop down to the pub for an afternoon. The local shows, race meets, and other social events are all driven by volunteers and it’s important these events continue.”
Scott Muller
Biloela
Fourth-generation farmer Scott Muller and wife Krystal operate a mixed grain and cattle farm alongside Scott’s parents, with their three children on 'Karinga', near Biloela.
The Muller family grow irrigated and dryland summer and winter crops and trade cattle on their 1,600 hectares.
Scott is dedicated to adopting innovative, sustainable farming practices that improve profitability and reef water quality outcomes.
