Rural
26 March, 2025
Local agribusiness woman wins Queensland award
NICOLE McNaughton, CEO of the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN), has been named the 2025 Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award winner for her exceptional leadership and dedication to supporting the agribusiness sector in Moreton Bay, the Sunshine Coast, and Gympie regions.
Recognised at a ceremony in Brisbane on March 20, Ms McNaughton’s work is pivotal in driving collaboration and innovation among food and agribusinesses in Queensland’s rural communities.
Through FAN, Ms McNaughton has connected producers, manufacturers, and industry leaders to help regional food businesses thrive in both domestic and international markets.
Her efforts have strengthened Queensland’s $23 billion agricultural industry, fostering growth and creating new opportunities for rural communities.
As the Queensland winner, Ms McNaughton was awarded a $15,000 Westpac grant, which will support further development of FAN’s initiatives.
She will also have the opportunity to pursue a professional development course of her choice.
Later this year, she will represent Queensland at the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Gala Dinner and National Announcement in Canberra, where the national winner will receive an additional $20,000 grant.
Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, praised Ms McNaughton’s leadership, emphasising her impact on Queensland’s food and agribusiness sector.
“Nicole is playing a pivotal role in advancing Queensland’s food and agribusiness sector, creating opportunities for producers and businesses to scale, innovate, and succeed,” he said.
Ms McNaughton expressed her pride in receiving the award, noting, “this award is a testament to the strength of our food and agribusiness community in Queensland”.
“I’m honoured to champion the incredible work being done across our regions,” she said.
“The success of regional agribusiness depends on strong collaboration and FAN exists to bring people together—producers, innovators, and businesses to grow stronger as a collective.”
Congratulations to all Queensland State finalists, including Angie Nisbet and Libby Cook-Black.
For more information about the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, visit www.agrifutures.com.au/rwa
