The SQ feedlot. Photo: Riparian Capital Partners

A QUEENSLAND-based investment fund has purchased a small feedlot from a growing Queensland grazing family, with plans to double its capacity.

Selling agents Viem Ventures this week confirmed Tambo-based Josh and Denae Phelps of Kingdon Land & Cattle Co have sold their established feedlot and farmland at Brigalow on the Darling Downs.

The purchaser is the Queensland Riparian Agriculture and Food Transition Trust (QRAFT), managed by Riparian Capital Partners for Brighter Super. The Phelps family will lease the asset back under a long-term triple-net lease and continue to run it, in a co-investment partnership with QRAFT. It is QRAFT’s first investment in farmland and agricultural infrastructure.

“The Phelps family have built a quality operation with real momentum. Matching them with patient, Queensland-based capital was the objective from the outset. It is a great result for the family, for QRAFT and for the Western Downs,” Viem Ventures princial Andrew Loughnan said.

On site, the investment plan provides for expanding the feedlot from 2,000 to 5,000 SCU and developing underutilised water entitlements for irrigated farmland. Beyond the gate, it supports the family’s broader beef supply chain.

It also puts Queenslanders’ retirement savings to work in Queensland agriculture. Brighter Super is a member-owned, Queensland-based fund, and QRAFT was set up to partner with regional producers to grow their operations. This asset is a strong fit with that intent.

Source: Viem Ventures