The Queensland Government has named Scenic Rim dairy farmer and agritourism advocate Kay Tommerup as an #eatqld Champion.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said Ms Tommerup had been chosen for her entrepreneurial attitude and dedication to promoting the value of the farming industry.
“Kay and her husband Dave run Tommerup’s Dairy Farm and farmstay in the Kerry Valley, near Beaudesert, producing cheese, butter, eggs, ice cream and pork,” Mr Furner said.
“The farm has been in the Tommerup family since the 1880s and, when dairy deregulation threatened their future, Kay and Dave diversified into tourism, restoring two historic properties on the farm for visitors who want a taste of farm life.
“Some might also remember Kay promoted the value of the farming industry as the Face of the Ekka in 2018.
“Kay’s efforts to reimagine the family business and maintain a sustainable working farm is truly inspirational as we unite and recover from the economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and they will be fine ambassadors promoting Queensland’s world of flavour from the state of delicious.”
Ms Tommerup said she was proud to be part of the Queensland farming industry.
“I’m honoured to be named as the ninth #eatqld champion and, more than that, it’s encouragement for us as farmers and our whole industry to feel proud of what we are doing,” Ms Tommerup said.
“We, along with many others, have definitely faced some challenges over the past few years with drought, bushfires and now the impacts of COVID-19 but we are resilient.
“We are so proud of our farming history, which dates back to the 1880s through my husband’s family, and we love sharing it whether it’s through our dairy and pork products, our on-farm events or our farmstay.”
Mr Furner said the Queensland Government’s #eatqld campaign encouraged the community to eat local, stay healthy and support jobs in the state’s agricultural sector.
“Our produce is second to none. We are urging everybody to explore Queensland-grown food and when you do, we ask that you take a photograph and share it online using the hashtag #eatqld,” Mr Furner said.
“By eating Queensland-produced meat, seafood, fruit, nuts and veggies you support everybody that brings that food to your table. .
“That means jobs for Queenslanders right across our state.”
Previous #eatqld Champions include Creek to Coast host Scott Hillier, Walkamin entrepreneur Krista Watkins, Bowen horticulturalist Carl Walker, and the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre’s Executive Chef David Pugh.
To nominate someone as an #eatqld Champion, email
