Community & Business
10 January, 2025
Remarkable recovery for redclaw farm
JUST one year after the devastating floods that wreaked havoc across the region, Barron River Redclaw has announced a remarkable recovery with 70% of the farm’s damage repaired and a renewed vision for sustainable aquaculture in the future.
The catastrophic flooding event that followed Tropical Cyclone Jasper in late 2023 left the farm in ruins, with damaged infrastructure, eroded ponds and significant stock losses.
See previous story here: https://www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au/barra-farm-in-ruins-insurance-denied-2024-01-18
However, after months of determination in the face of adversity, the farm has not only rebuilt but is now preparing to harvest sustainable redclaw products in the new year.
Owner and operator of Barron River Redclaw, Rodney Ingersoll OBE, led the recovery efforts with an unbreakable spirit.
“I live in the future and see things as completed,” Mr Ingersoll said.
“I stand firm through challenges, follow my heart, and remain committed to creating a sustainable path forward for agriculture and food security.
“The farm was formerly a barramundi farm, but after losing all our stock to the river during the floods, I pivoted the all-farming operations to redclaw crayfish.
“Despite having zero income from agriculture over the past 12 months, I’ve pushed on and focused on teaching others how to grow their own food sustainably, whether through aquaculture, aquaponics, or permaculture.
“This is about building resilience, not just for myself but for others facing similar challenges,” he said.
Over the past year, Mr Ingersoll has worked tirelessly to; repair critical infrastructure, restoring 70% of the farm to operational status; restock the ponds redclaw; reinvent business operations; and begin offering consulting services to help communities and individuals adopt sustainable food production techniques.
“At TNQ Drought Hub, we are dedicated to strengthening agricultural resilience and creating partnerships that empower communities across Tropical North Queensland,” TNQs Agricultural Innovation and Commercialisation leader Tony Matchett said.
“Working with Rodney and Barron River Redclaw to support his innovation journey has been an inspiring example of how collaboration and determination can lead to lasting solutions in food security and sustainability,” he said.
The first harvest of sustainably farmed redclaw is set to begin soon, marking a significant milestone in the farm’s recovery journey.
“Our recovery is not just about rebuilding what we lost, it’s about creating a stronger, more sustainable future. Sometimes you need to slow down to speed up,” Mr Ingersoll said.
“This has been one of the toughest challenges of my life, but with the support of my family, the community, and our partners, Barron River Redclaw is stronger than ever.”
For more information about Barron River Redclaw, visit:
Or via Facebook at
www.facebook.com/BarronRiverRedclaw/
