Grants seed recovery growth for Queensland primary producers

Primary production in one of Queensland’s most spectacular but weather-exposed regions is challenging at the best of times.

Severe weather events can leave a lasting impact on farming communities, wreaking havoc on crops, infrastructure and livelihoods. 

This is the harsh reality for Mathew and Sarah Di Mauro, third and fourth-generation sugar cane and watermelon farmers from El Arish on the Cassowary Coast.

During recent years their journey has been shaped by perseverance in the face of numerous disaster events that have battered Far North Queensland.

In December 2023, Tropical Cyclone Jasper caused widespread flooding and damage along the Cassowary Coast, affecting crops, infrastructure, and access across farms.

Just over 12 months later in January 2025, the region was again swamped by floodwaters following significant rainfall from the North and Far North Tropical Low.

That second bout of flooding not only brought its own devastating impacts, it also exacerbated damage still left behind from Cyclone Jasper.

Paddocks were washed out, topsoil was stripped away, and debris was scattered across the Di Mauro farm, making it difficult for Mathew and Sarah to even know where to begin with their recovery.

Thankfully, financial support was available through the Australian and Queensland Governments’ jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to keep the Di Mauros going.

Working closely with the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA), the Di Mauros secured a primary producer Disaster Recovery Grant that provided much needed cash to help them restore their farms.

The grant was used for essential clean-up and repair works, allowing the couple to restore damaged paddocks and farm infrastructure to get production back on track.

Sage advice from QRIDA regional officers has allowed the Di Mauros to maximise disaster assistance available under the DRFA and boost their recovery.

For Mathew and Sarah, QRIDA’s support has proven an operational lifeline, and their story is testament to the authority's vital role supporting Queensland primary producers. 

In administering DRFA Disaster Recovery Grants, concessional loans, and providing personalised regional support, QRIDA is helping local farming families rebuild and thrive.

Disaster impacted primary producers in need of support can check their eligibility and apply via www.qrida.qld.gov.au or by calling 1800 623 946.

Producers can also access other DRFA assistance like freight subsidies and fodder support through Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries.