A Coolum Beach businesswoman has claimed a significant award for her unusual and environmentally friendly pet treats.
Emma Gibbons received the Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award at a ceremony in Brisbane on Thursday (March 2), for building her business with the help of sustainable agriculture.
Her business Huds and Toke sells dog food and treats made with Australian-farmed insect protein and vegetable surplus.
The alternative ingredients result in a lower carbon footprint and a reduction in waste.
Ms Gibbons won a $15,000 Westpac grant and will represent Queensland at the national final in September, when she has the chance to win a $20,000 Westpac grant.
She was selected from four finalists who epitomised the significant impact women have on rural industries, businesses and communities.
The finalists join a 300-strong alumni that advocates for women in regional and rural Australia and provides a network to support their future endeavours.
Ms Gibbons and her husband Russell started Huds and Toke after they saw a gap in the market for alternative dog food.
The business combined with Krispy Kreme to make an impact in the United States and they recently offered novel Christmas pet treats.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner congratulated Ms Gibbons for her “vision and entrepreneurial approach” which “perfectly illustrates the values of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award”.
Mr Furner acknowledged the efforts of the finalists.
“Queensland’s rural industries are incredibly diverse and these women demonstrate just a few of the many roles that help grow our sector to become more sustainable and prosperous,” he said.
Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia John Harvey said Ms Gibbons was leading by example.
“It’s exciting to see Emma Gibbons making such a positive influence in her industry and community,” he said.
Maxine Austin, the regional general manager northern Queensland, regional and agribusiness, for Platinum Sponsor Westpac said Ms Gibbons could inspire others.
“She is a great ambassador for our rural industries and a beacon for its future success,” she said.
Further more information see AgriFutures – Rural Women’s Award.
Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our free daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email. See SUBSCRIBE at the top of this article.
