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Goondiwindi Cotton Tackling Fast Fashion
Goondiwindi cotton is breathing new life into old Sheridan sheets and hi-vis clothing with an innovative new textile recycling practice. A farm in Goondiwindi is taking old textiles and shredding them to spread on top of cotton crops as a fertiliser for the crops, in the hopes to bring recycling into the mainstream production line.
In this never-before-done trial, the cotton farmers are hoping the reused cotton ‘fertiliser’ will provide benefits to soil health, including improving soil moisture retention, carbon capture, and increasing microbial activity.
The breaking down of these garments in soil offers far more environmental benefits than if they were to break down in landfill.
The test will likely lead to more investigations into non biodegradable elements such as synthetic dyes, buttons, zips, synthetic threads and tags. The trial is expected to conclude at the end of harvesting season, in early to mid 2022.
"The potential to divert clothing from landfill, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and potentially feed our soils could help deliver more sustainable practices in multiple sectors,” said Dr Oliver Knox from the University of New England.
"We grow it here and we should be able to bury it here with positive environmental and economic impact on the local community,” said local farmer and Goondiwindi Cotton owner, Sam Coulton.
Textile waste is a significant problem in Australia, and implementing practises like this creates a circular life cycle for clothing, minimising waste and enhancing outputs. Southern Queensland Landscapes is excited to track the progress of this experiment as it develops further.
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Southern Queensland Landscapes is seeking an experienced and influential Board Chair to lead a multi-skilled Board in managing natural resources across Southern Queensland. This is a 3-year remunerated role based in Toowoomba, QLD, with the flexibility to manage from anywhere in Southern QLD. The ideal candidate will bring: • Substantial experience leading diverse Boards • Strong relationship-building and leadership skills • Expertise in environmental and agricultural matters This role is an opportunity to shape the future of natural resource management, working closely with land managers, community leaders, and industry professionals. Are you ready to make an enduring impact? For more details and to apply, visit www.windsor-group.com.au/job/board-chair-natural-resources-peak-body or contact Mike Conroy at apply@windsor-group.com.au.
This week marked the final Board meeting for retiring Southern Queensland Landscape Chair, The Hon Bruce Scott AM. The Southern Queensland Landscapes Board hosted a function at Gip’s restaurant in Toowoomba, joined by past Directors, industry stakeholders and the Southern Queensland Landscapes Management team, where Bruce was warmly acknowledged and thanked. Bruce offered special thanks to his dear wife Joan for her support during his period of service to Southern Queensland Landscapes, in particular the warm country hospitality she has offered to many visitors to Roma. Bruce also recognised and thanked Southern Queensland Landscapes Company Secretary Pam Murphy, who has supported Bruce in his service to Southern Queensland Landscapes since the organisation’s inception.
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Screen Type Self Cleaning Floatation Fish Screen Screen M anufacturer KleenScreen, NZ River Catchment Condamine Branch (Chinchilla Weir)
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Screen Type Self Cleaning Cylindrical Screen Screen M anufacturer AWMA River Catchment Condamine River
The Condamine Headwaters, a critical ecosystem in Southern Queensland, has long faced threats from sedimentation, habitat degradation, and thermal regime changes. The Blackfish Project, dedicated to reversing these impacts, unites scientists, landowners, and the community in a shared mission to restore and protect this vital environment. At its core lies the river blackfish, a sensitive indicator of the overall ecosystem health. Central to the project's success is the unwavering commitment of landowners like Paul Graham. Inspired by the project's vision, Paul reached out to SQ Landscapes seeking support for a solar pump and tank to divert his cattle away from waterways on his property. Paul's deep-rooted love for his land, captured in his humorous quip "I love my land more than I love my wife," is a testament to the powerful connection between people and place that drives conservation efforts.
The Board of Southern Queensland Landscapes recently met in Toowoomba. In addition to the Board meeting, Board and Executive worked through updating SQ Landscapes’ strategy. Company Secretary Pam Murphy highlighted the importance of the latest Board meeting and what it means for the company’s future. “The updated strategy will help SQ Landscapes deliver sustainable natural resource management (NRM) outcomes that improve the lives of people in regional communities now and for the future,” Pam Murphy said. “We’re excited to continue delivering value for our region and build Flourishing Landscapes and Healthy Communities across Southern Queensland under the guidance of the Board,” Mrs Murphy said.