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April 2010 - Urban Agriculture: From the rural sphere to the city square

Another sell out EIANZ-SEQ event!

Climate change, water shortages, rising crude oil prices and an expanding population are causing the community to question the resilience of our current farming and food supply systems. In the near future localised food production – integrated into the city’s infrastructures – might well be a key factor in securing access to affordable and healthy food for new and existing communities. This forum makes a strong case for localised integrated food production in a Slim City – the resource and carbon efficient city of the future.

•What is urban agriculture? Does it offer a partial solution to the rising social, economic and environmental costs associated with food production?
•What is the potential for significant food production within cities?
•What can we learn from the experience of others?
•What are the implications for rural communities, local governments and environmental practioners?
•What action is required to make it happen and work in Queensland?

Many came along and heard speakers who are emerging as leaders in this field:

Michael Velders
Michael Velders of Arup has as background in agricultural and environmental engineering, coupled with change management. A believer in setting a high bar for sustainability, Michael has developed a particular interest in how we might feed ourselves in a low carbon economy.

Nick McGowan
Nick McGowan has come from a landscape architecture and urban design background and has been recognised for his excellence in open space planning in urban areas. Nick has just returned from a study tour of urban agricultural models around the world undertaken through a Centre for Subtropical Design Travel Bursary

Margie Milgate
Margie Milgate is the Regional Networks Coordinator for Growcom, which is the representative organisation for commercial fruit and vegetable growers in Queensland. Her role is to optimise the involvement of the growing industry in land and water issues.

Margaret Jacobson
Margaret Jacobson is a Senior Natural Environment and Sustainability Officer, with the Brisbane City Council. Her role in this policy and strategy position includes responsibilities for strategic and policy alignment within the Council on a range of public estate values; and influencing key government, business and community leaders and decision makers in biodiversity conservation and strategic open space planning and management.