Northern Territory’s agricultural industry has received a long-term investment
Duxton Farms has secured a lease agreement to further progress the Wildman Agricultural Development Hub in the Northern Territory.
The hub is located about 135km east of Darwin and spans 28,000 hectares.
Described by the NT government as a “key development site”, it will accommodate a variety of agricultural activities, including horticulture, livestock, broadacre cropping, and forestry.
NT agriculture and fisheries minister Gerard Maley says the development marks a significant step in expanding and diversifying the territory’s agricultural sector.
“This acquisition by Duxton Farms is an exciting development for the Territory’s agricultural future,” he says.
“The expansion of the Wildman Agricultural Development Hub will contribute significantly to regional economies, providing vital job opportunities for Territorians while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.”
Duxton Farms acquired 2,386 hectares of the hub last year and has invested further, with board chairman Ed Peter saying he is excited about the project’s potential.
“I am delighted that Duxton Farms has been given the opportunity to develop the Wildman Agricultural Development Hub, and we look forward to working with the corporation, the Government, and the fantastic people of the Northern Territory to build something truly special in the Top End,” he says.
“This is a very unique project that should create substantial long-term value.”
The NT government says this project is part of its broader efforts to rebuild the Territory economy through diversification and investment in agriculture.
“The development of agricultural hubs like Wildman is vital to ensuring the Territory continues to grow, both economically and in terms of job creation,” Maley says.
“We are laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future by attracting major investment to the Territory.
“By creating opportunities for new agricultural developments, we are driving sustainable growth in the Territory’s agricultural and horticultural industries.”
The development has the potential to boost production of crops, the government says, including high yield such as mangoes and melons, broadacre crops alongside cattle production, which will be key for the local economy.
“We are committed to boosting the economy, and Duxton Farms has committed to investing a substantial amount of capital in the Northern Territory’s agricultural economy over the next eight years, which is fantastic for the NT,” Maley says.