Turf Queensland

20/10/2025

Turf Queensland AGM & Industry Social – A Night to Remember!

Friday night’s Turf Queensland AGM and Industry Social was, as always, an evening full of energy, camaraderie, and celebration. The room was filled with familiar faces and new faces alike, a reminder of the strength and unity of our turf community.
Hugo shared a heartfelt recap of the journey we’ve been on. From joining the board in 2017 to hosting the turning point event Paddock to Pitch during COVID, an event that brought growers and suppliers back together, reconnected members, and reminded us why our industry is so special. Hugo spoke about the dedication of the board, sponsors, and members, from late-night barbecues and packing tents to midnight emails and countless acts of support, all contributing to Turf Queensland’s growth into the strong, independent association it is today.

After six years as President, Hugo has stepped down, leaving Turf Queensland in a strong position and opening a new chapter of leadership. We are thrilled to welcome Amanda Smyth, Director at Wild Horse Turf, as our new President. Amanda will guide Turf Queensland through a year of growth, including the launch of our membership offering, designed to support businesses of all sizes and help them stay compliant with ever-changing Fair Work and WHS legislation. We are also pleased to welcome Corey Fordyce from Marion Lawns as Vice President.

We were thrilled to welcome our newest members, Doug and Dean from The Turf Shed, as well as Alex White, Vice President of Turf Australia, joining us for the evening. Hugo’s speech reminded us all of the importance of collaboration, professionalism, and innovation in the turf industry. He spoke passionately about Turf 360, the industry’s first third-party accreditation system, and its role in protecting farms, customers, and the future of turf in Australia.

We also acknowledge that Sarah Jane Mason has stepped away from the board to focus on her growing family business. We thank her immensely for all the work she has done and the value she has added over the years.

It was a night of reflection, celebration, and optimism, a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together. Congratulations to Amanda Smyth and the board, and thank you to every grower, supplier, sponsor, and supporter who has contributed to Turf Queensland’s journey. Here’s to another year of progress, growth, and unity in our industry!

01/10/2025

https://youtu.be/FdgVAq4OGqE?si=VBODMLoF7jsVPVZU

When innovation leads the way, we start rethinking what’s possible.

We’re thrilled to welcome ICL as our Platinum Partner.
Their leadership in turf nutrition and sustainable solutions aligns perfectly with our vision for a stronger, more resilient turf industry.

🌏 Our Commitment Beyond TurfAt Tinamba Turf, we’re working every day to reduce our environmental footprint and build a stronger future:Environment: Smarter ...

29/09/2025

A big thank you to our 2025 Annual Sponsors!

ICL – Platinum Partner
Living Turf – Gold Partner
K&B Adams – Silver Partner
Trimax Mowers – Bronze Partner

Your support helps us grow and strengthen the turf industry!

And a very special thanks to Turfbreed for sponsoring the reduced ticket price for growers.

Don’t forget: This is the last week to register for the AGM and Industry Social!

Friday, 17th October from 5pm

Secure your spot here ➡️ https://www.trybooking.com/DESLT

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23/09/2025

Have You Met Jodie Thompson?

Jodie Thompson is a Business Resilience Partner with Turf Queensland and a Director at both Mulcahy & Co Sunshine Coast and Evolve Online Bookkeeping.

With almost 30 years’ experience in accounting and financial services, Jodie has worked with clients locally and nationally, supporting them in taxation, accounting, business planning and advisory. She also holds a limited financial advisor licence, providing advice on superannuation and self-managed super funds.

Jodie’s career began on the Sunshine Coast before taking her overseas, working with leading organisations such as Price Waterhouse Coopers, Citibank, and Enterprise Energy Ireland (Shell). She has since built a strong reputation back home, recognised as Sunshine Coast’s Professional Business Woman of the Year and guiding her firm to win multiple business awards.

Her expertise covers:
✅ Business advice & planning
✅ Taxation & succession planning
✅ Superannuation & SMSFs
✅ Business acquisitions & growth strategies
✅ Cloud accounting & app integrations

Through her role as a Business Resilience Partner, Jodie is available to help turf growers strengthen their businesses and plan for the future.

Growers can reach out for a free 30-minute consultation with Jodie.

Stay tuned for Jodie's workshop coming up early next year, it's one not to be missed.

Contact Jodie:
jodie.thompson@mulcahy.com.au
07 5413 9300

The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.

17/09/2025

Have You Met Alexandra Mexis from Sketch Corp?

As the Founder and Managing Director of Sketch Corp, Alexandra Mexis has been shaping the way Australian agribusiness tells its story since 2014. With a background in marketing and international business, Alexandra built Sketch Corp as a specialist agriculture marketing agency to give agribusinesses the long-term, connected support they deserve.

Her work is all about helping producers, growers and agribusiness leaders build strong brands, sharpen their communications, and achieve real commercial outcomes. From positioning and messaging, through to digital delivery, campaigns and stakeholder engagement, Alexandra and her team have partnered with some of Australia’s most iconic agricultural brands, as well as innovative small operators who are changing the game.

At the heart of her approach is one clear belief: Australian agriculture deserves marketing that is as strong, future-focused and resilient as the people behind it. That’s why Sketch Corp works closely with clients to build foundations that last and strategies that deliver.

Turf Queensland is proud to have Alexandra and Sketch Corp as a Business Resilience Partner, bringing proven experience, creativity and deep respect for growers to our network.

Exclusive for Turf Growers: Alexandra is offering a free 30-minute consultation to help you explore ways to strengthen your brand, marketing and communications. Don’t miss the chance to tap into her expertise!

📞 Contact Alexandra Mexis: 07 3369 6100 or a.mexis@sketchcorp.com

The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.

16/09/2025

Turf Queensland x ICL – Driving Better Outcomes for Growers!

We’re proud to announce ICL as our Platinum Partner for the year! Their active support and expertise are helping turf growers across Queensland tackle real challenges on the ground.

ICL is stepping up with growers on the Turf Task Force – a Turf Queensland initiative we’ve passionately championed. We know that growers must lead the conversation when it comes to protecting their land and managing biosecurity. The trials happening at Tinamba Turf are giving growers a real voice, generating insights that will drive better RIFA control and smarter turf management across Queensland.

Through these turf trials, valuable insights are already emerging, and we can’t wait to showcase these results at an event early next year – stay tuned!

A huge thank you to ICL for their commitment and for supporting growers every step of the way.

📞 For more information, contact Will Peirce: 0491 379 996

16/09/2025

Have you met Sarah Winwood?

As Director of UPP HR, Sarah Winwood brings over 15 years of expertise in risk management and HR best practice – but it’s her tailored, people-first approach that truly sets her apart.

In just five years, Sarah has grown UPP HR into a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of employment law, workforce challenges, and organisational change. She believes in bespoke HR solutions that help businesses not only adapt to change but grow and thrive through it.

👉 Reminder for growers: Through the Farm Business Resilience Program (FBRP), you can book a free 30-minute consultation with Sarah (and our other partners) to access practical, tailored advice for your business.

We’re proud to have Sarah as part of our Business Resilience Partner team, supporting turf growers to build stronger, more resilient businesses.

Sarah can be contacted via Sarah@upphr.com.au

The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.

16/09/2025

Have you met Sam Dekker, from Mills Oakley?

We’re proud to introduce Sam Dekker, one of our Business Resilience Partners supporting turf growers through the Farm Business Resilience Program .

Sam is a highly accomplished senior lawyer, recognised by Doyle’s Guide and Best Lawyers, specialising in Work Health and Safety (WHS), risk, and regulatory compliance. With experience across agriculture, resources, construction, marine, logistics, and manufacturing, Sam offers practical legal and strategic advice to help businesses strengthen their operations and reduce risk.

What sets Sam apart is his background not only as a lawyer but also as a WHS professional, having worked on some of Australia’s largest resource and construction projects. He understands the realities growers face and provides tailored, practical support.

👉 Reminder for growers: You can book a free 30-minute consultation with Sam (and our other partners) through the FBRP to get advice specific to your business.

You can Sam directly directly at 0400 345 589 or sdekker@millsoakley.com.au.

We’re excited to have Sam as part of our resilience team, helping growers prepare, adapt, and thrive.

The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.

15/09/2025

The synthetic turf industry is on the rise — and it's not just a passing trend. In Australia, the market is projected to grow from AUD 577.3 million in 2024 to AUD 858.5 million by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 7%.

This surge poses a significant threat to our industry, and it's crucial that we act now.

Why This Matters to You

Every synthetic turf installation represents a potential lost customer for natural turf growers. If consumers aren't educated about the risks and downsides of synthetic options, demand for natural turf could decline, impacting your business and the broader industry.

Your Levy at Work

Your turf levy is funding initiatives like Turf Australia's "Natural Lawn JOY" campaign, which educates the public on the benefits of natural turf. This is your turf levy, working to protect your livelihood and the future of our industry.

How You Can Help

Download the Grower Resources Kit: Use the materials provided to educate your customers about the advantages of natural turf.

Engage with the Campaign: Share information on social media, in-store, and through your networks to spread the message.

Advocate for Natural Turf: Be a voice in your community for the benefits of natural turf over synthetic alternatives.

Together, we can ensure that natural turf remains the first choice for Australian lawns. Your involvement is vital to the success of this campaign and the future of our industry.



https://www.grandviewresearch.com/horizon/outlook/artificial-turf-market/australia

10/09/2025

We’re proud to support Turf Australia’s Natural Joy campaign, celebrating the simple yet powerful benefits that natural turf brings to our lives. From backyards to sports fields, turf creates spaces where families connect, kids play, and communities come together.

Natural turf doesn’t just look great — it delivers real benefits:
✅ Cooler spaces in our suburbs
✅ Cleaner air and improved soil health
✅ Safe, soft areas for play and recreation
✅ A positive impact on wellbeing and lifestyle

Let’s keep celebrating the natural joy of turf and the role our growers play in producing it.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

09/09/2025

🌱 Take Your Turf Business to the Next Level with Turf360 🌱

After extensive lobbying through the Future Drought Fund, Turf Queensland has secured four years of funding to deliver the Turf360 best management practice program free of charge to all Queensland growers!

Turf360 helps growers:
✅ Improve operational efficiency
✅ Strengthen biosecurity
✅ Adopt industry best practices
✅ Build resilience to climate change and drought

For 2025, we are seeking 8 growers to join this limited intake — giving participants dedicated support and practical tools to enhance their operations.

📣 How to Apply: Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) today!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjq0ajMyml2fpXU2hX61pCLoR1Nf-IZKj6YQux9tBUM91tTA/viewform?usp=header

Don’t miss this chance to showcase your farm’s best practices and strengthen resilience — completely free of charge.

Funding Acknowledgment
The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.

15/08/2025

Join us from 5:00pm for the Turf Queensland AGM & Industry Social – an evening to unwind, connect, and celebrate with friends and colleagues from across the turf industry.

Enjoy a full 5-hour drinks package, delicious food, and plenty of laughs in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Thanks to the generous support of Turfbreed, the first 40 tickets are available at the special price of $140 per person – reduced from $190 – so book fast and don’t miss out! This is the perfect opportunity to catch up, network, and enjoy a fantastic night out with the turf community.

Booking link: https://www.trybooking.com/DESLT