The Iona Project is a proposed integrated beef production and processing precinct at Iona Downs near Emerald. Bringing together cattle finishing, processing, renewable energy generation and resource recovery within a single coordinated operation, the project has been designed to strengthen regional supply chains, improve operational efficiency and retain more value within Queensland's beef industry.
Iona Downs is located near Emerald in Central Queensland, at the centre of one of Australia’s leading cattle-producing regions. The site provides access to a reliable year-round cattle supply, an established producer network, a skilled regional workforce and major road and rail freight corridors. Its proximity to Queensland export gateways, including Gladstone and the Port of Brisbane, also supports efficient access to domestic and international markets while limiting the need for major external infrastructure upgrades.
The Iona Project brings every part of the precinct together within one integrated production system. This connected approach improves efficiency across the beef supply chain and provides the flexibility and capacity needed for future growth.
The processing facility has been designed to initially process up to 900 head of cattle each day using modern livestock handling systems, climate-controlled processing environments and export-ready infrastructure. The facility has been masterplanned to accommodate future expansion as market demand grows while maintaining high standards of animal welfare, food safety and product quality.
A purpose-built 35,000 SCU feedlot allows livestock to be finished immediately adjacent to the processing facility. By eliminating unnecessary transport between separate facilities, the project reduces logistics, improves operational coordination and supports higher standards of animal welfare while providing a consistent supply of cattle throughout the year.
The precinct incorporates approximately 4.5 MW of renewable energy generation, supported by biogas recovered from organic processing streams. Rather than treating energy as an external input, the project is designed to generate a significant proportion of its own electricity on site, improving resilience while reducing operating costs and emissions.
The precinct also includes the supporting infrastructure required for efficient day-to-day operations, including internal transport networks, utilities, water infrastructure, administration facilities and operational services. Together these systems provide the foundation for a modern agricultural precinct capable of supporting future expansion.
Resource recovery has been incorporated throughout the precinct to maximise the value of agricultural by-products wherever practical. Organic materials generated through operations will be assessed for beneficial reuse, supporting improved resource efficiency and reducing unnecessary waste. This integrated approach reflects a broader commitment to circular agricultural systems and long-term operational sustainability.
Queensland is internationally recognised for producing premium beef, yet much of the value generated through processing occurs outside regional production areas.
The Iona Project has been designed to capture more of that value locally by integrating production, processing and supporting infrastructure within a single precinct. The result is a more efficient supply chain that supports regional employment, encourages private investment and strengthens the long-term competitiveness of Queensland agriculture.
The Iona Project is being delivered in stages through design, approvals and construction planning. In 2025, the Iona Project was awarded the title of a Prescribed Project by the Queensland Government, streamlining the coordinated approval pathway and confirming the project's significance to the state's agricultural and economic development.
A control group made up of agricultural operators, engineers and technical advisers is guiding planning and delivery across disciplines including engineering, approvals, environment and commercial development.
.png)
