The region is buzzing with talk of industrial hemp (iHemp) but potential growers have found it hard to separate fact from fiction regarding methods to grow the crop, existing markets and its potential returns.
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Realising this disconnect, Regional Development Australia - Orana (RDA Orana) has worked in partnership with M2100 to bring Australia's iHemp industry leaders to the region, to address growers in Narromine on October 13.
"As a fibre, industrial hemp can be used in everything from horse bedding to simulated timber products like pallets" said RDA Orana's CEO, Felicity Taylor Edwards.
"With so many uses and talk of big dollars, it's hard to get a practical grip on how the Orana can enter the market, what's lacking in terms of infrastructure or links in the supply chain, and how we really make the most of what seems to be a crop with exceptional opportunities."
"This forum will start to answer some of those questions for growers. Our panellists are buyers and manufacturers who can explain the end market opportunities of the crop. There are also agronomists and licensing experts, existing growers and Susan Madden from Macquarie River Food and Fibre representing the local food and fibre industry, to ensure it's a balanced and practical discussion.
"As an economic development organisation we want to ensure that the region is ready to take advantage of any opportunity that comes its way. We'll be gauging interest in the room on the day and assessing what role we have in progressing the iHemp industry in the Orana from here."
Klara Marosszeky is one of the forum's panellists and a consultant specialising in using hemp fibre as a sustainable building material. She says that iHemp presents a great opportunity for regional development.
"This is an industry totally dependent on and driven by the farmers that supply it. Conversations like this can give people a role in shaping the industry and ensuring that the farmer comes first."
The Orana iHemp Markets Forum is being held at the Narromine Aero Club on October 13 from 2pm-4.30pm, followed by networking drinks.
To secure your place at the forum please contact RDA Orana on (02) 6885 1488 or email admin@rdaorana.org.au
