Tweed farmer Robert Quirk wins award for carbon work
TWEED cane farmer Robert Quirk has won the National Carbon Cocky (Farmer) of the Year award.
Mr Quirk won the award at the National Carbon Farming Conference and Expo in Canberra recently for his commitment to ensuring the cane farming industry remains sustainable.
"I am very appreciative for this recognition, especially amongst so many respected and deserving candidates," Mr Quirk said.
Mr Quirk said by increasing the carbon levels in his soils, he'd been able to increase productivity, reduce carbon emissions and fertiliser use.
"Researchers said it would be difficult to increase soil carbon in sugarcane soils and suggested that it was only possible to slow the reduction, however we have been able to dispel this theory," Mr Quirk said.
"It is so important that we as cane farmers take control of our environmental footprint which is a big part of ensuring our industry remains sustainable."
Mr Quirk is chairman of Tweed Canegrowers, a board member for the Australian Cane Farmers Association, and a Director of Bonsucro - the global sugar production standard.
