Industrial hemp as an emerging industry in Northern Australia – episode 3

During the month of May, we are looking at the future of food through the lens of the Northern Australia Food Futures Conference, in Darwin 17-20 May.

AgriFutures Australia is a major sponsor with a particular focus showcasing industry partnerships in the north in emerging industries.

Joining us for today’s conversation is Mic Jakobi, the Operations Director for Northern Territory Hay Seed & Grain (NTHS&G), who has carved out a career in farming in the NT.

Initially starting with grass hay production, Mic has since transitioned into grain and seed crop production with an emphasis on commercialising new tropical grass varieties.

He was recently awarded the first commercial Hemp licence in the NT and is now also experimenting with protected cropping of ginger. He is passionate about developing profitable farming systems which compliment mainstream crop rotations and enhance soil health for the long term.

This conversation looks at some of those possibilities in the Top End, with a focus on industrial hemp, an emerging industry with an exciting future.

Here is Mic’s story.