Michelle Landry (Capricornia, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

My electorate of Capricornia is the powerhouse of beef and coal production. These are important industries. But Capricornia is diverse and offers much in the way of innovation. Today, I am pleased to inform you of one such example.

Capricornia pineapple farmer Barry Brookes and his wife, Elaine Barben, are on the verge of developing international markets for a medicinal product extracted from pineapples. Together with their partnership team—including researchers from CQ University—they are using an enzyme called bromelain which is extracted from the pine tops and juice. Bromelain is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and for treating skin ailments. Research suggests it shows benefits for burns and scars, as a blood thinner, and as an ingredient in some forms of cancer treatment.

On their Yeppoon farm, the Brookes family team has developed a bromelain cream. They hope to develop markets to export it. I have provided them with information on government services, like our small business helpline, which helps businesses to develop their concepts. New ventures like this have the potential to bolster employment, export potential and cash flow into the Capricornia region. I commend such innovation and wish this team every success with their venture.

Mrs Bronwyn Bishop (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Order! In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members' statements has concluded.