The Queensland Turf Producers Association (QTPA), now trading as “Turf Queensland” commenced in March 2001 and, believed it was timely to develop a Strategic Development Plan (2003/2006) to support, in a sustainable and professional manner, the Queensland turf production industry in this state. As is the case with all associations the development of member benefits was paramount and addressing the various issues identified by members through the inclusive research of the Strategic Plan has provided considerable direction for the executive of Turf Queensland to progress the recognised industry peak body.

Turf Queensland is very much an integral part of the lifestyle horticulture sector in Queensland and due to its size ($160m P/A) and being a key industry supplier, has attracted interest and support from the Queensland Governments Department of Primary Industries . In 2008 the department undertook its own survey into the size of the industry at a cost of approximately $100,000, to identify the economic value of Queensland’s “Lifestyle) Horticulture” Industry. This enabled it to identify the total Farm Gate Revenue for the “TurfIndustry” in Queensland. It identified that the Farm Gate Revenue for the collective “green” industry only, was more than $4.3 billion in Queensland. In so doing, this survey provided the necessary qualification and recognition of the Lifestyle Horticulture Industry in Queensland of which the turf production sector, valued by DPI at over $160 million is an integral part. There are 157 turf farmers operating in Queensland.

As an integrated industry and through the 3rd party Turf Accreditation Process (TAP) we look forward to working alongside the related stakeholders, sponsors, research institutions and our members to continue the professionalism, growth and awareness of this key industry supplier for the emerging growth industry of Lifestyle Horticulture in Queensland.

Queensland turf production industry as a glance (2008)