Walkamin banana farm turned to ash
AN EXTENSIVE portion of a Far North Queensland banana farm has been destroyed by a bushfire as the region battles unforgiving hot and dry conditions.
Powerhouse couple Rob and Krista Watkins, of Walkamin, shared the news of their family’s charred plantation on social media.
Along with running a successful banana farm, the pair are the founders of Natural Evolution Foods, creating a range of natural super foods such as banana flour and sweet potato flour.
This is the third disaster the Watkins family’s plantation has been hit with, after having been severely affected by two cyclones in the past.
The devastation to their property also comes just weeks after Mr and Mrs Watkins were awarded the prestigious Peter Kenny Medal for their outstanding contribution to Queensland Agriculture.
“It breaks our heart to share this but the grounds of Natural Evolution has suffered extensive fire damage to part of the plantation and surrounding native bushland,” they said.
“We are blessed dad (Bruce Watkins) was there for us as we are away.
“Hard week ahead when we get home. The people and factory are all safe luckily.”
Firefighters will continue to monitor bushfires burning across the region between Cardwell and Mutchilba.
A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokes- woman said there was a chance conditions tomorrow would help out with the smaller fires.
“Hopefully, we’ll get some rain and that will certainly help,” she said.
A fire burning at Edmonton still posed no direct threat to homes but is being monitored.
“This fire is burning in an inaccessible area and is posing no threat to property at this time,” the spokeswoman said. “Smoke may affect Edmonton, Mount Sheridan and Gordonvale. Residents should close windows and doors and keep respiratory medications close by.
“Motorists should drive with caution and to conditions. If residents are concerned their property is under threat they are advised to call triple-0 immediately.”