In an innovative project set to revolutionize the agricultural sector in Queensland, Kalfresh, along with Wollemi Capital and the Queensland Government's Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), has initiated the construction of a $291 million facility in Kalbar. This ambitious project, dubbed the Scenic Rim Agricultural Industrial Precinct, will transform vegetable scraps and farm waste into renewable energy, marking a significant development in Australia's bid for sustainable practices. Known as a "paddock to power" first, the facility aims to utilize anaerobic digestion—where microorganisms break down organic matter—to create biogas and fertilizer from processing offcuts and rotational crops.

The Kalbar facility will span across 40 hectares and is expected to set a precedent for how agricultural waste can be effectively repurposed. Traditionally, the anaerobic digestion process has been implemented in various sectors, including wastewater and landfill management, however, this project brings it directly to the agricultural base. By converting vegetable scraps from crops such as carrots, pumpkins, onions, and beans into renewable natural gas, the project not only promises to reduce waste but also supports the creation of clean energy, contributing to Queensland's sustainable energy goals.

This development reflects growing trends among agriculture and climate-focused businesses to integrate energy solutions within their operations. As the demand for renewable energy sources increases, the involvement of investors like Wollemi Capital highlights the intersection of agriculture and renewable energy, showcasing a model that could potentially be replicated across Australia. By transforming agricultural waste into energy, the Scenic Rim project paves the way for future advancements in bioenergy and sustainability in the farming sector, while also addressing environmental challenges linked to food waste and energy consumption.