Nestled in a top-secret spot in South Australia, MedTec Pharma is celebrating the commencement of its groundbreaking venture as one of Australia's leading medicinal cannabis producers. Under the guidance of Brad Gallard, a seasoned citrus grower, the farm's transition into the cannabis industry took nearly five years of meticulous dedication, motivated by personal encounters with the improved health benefits associated with medicinal cannabis. Despite no financial returns as of yet, Gallard's resolve and commitment to the project remain unwavering.
Choosing to focus on the latitude of 34 degrees as an ideal growing environment for cannabis, Gallard's decision was influenced by the distinctive requirements of various strains. This strategic move to cultivate medicinal cannabis, conducted on a three-hectare sunlit field, represents a shift from traditional fruit growing, presenting unique challenges and experiences for Gallard and his team. The fusion of agricultural practices from citrus cultivation to cannabis farming involves similar irrigation methods and fertilization routines, alongside the significant contrast of cannabis being a faster-growing and more responsive crop.
Employing about 30 staff, with plans for a potential workforce expansion to 100 individuals, MedTec's operations stand out for their outdoor cultivation practices, diverging from the common approach of greenhouse cultivation prevalent in the industry. Emphasizing stringent biosecurity measures and the utilization of beneficial insects, the farm aims to minimize risks related to diseases like tobacco virus. The farm team's unwavering commitment to maintaining a smoke-free environment and adhering to strict protocols underscores their dedication to pristine quality and consistency in their cannabis production.
The establishment of MedTec Pharma not only signifies an ambitious foray into the medicinal cannabis market but also reflects a broader industry trend in which new employment opportunities and economic growth potentials are being harnessed. Recognizing the increasing demand for domestic supply, industry pioneers like Emily Rigby are pushing for streamlined licensing processes to facilitate greater local production. MedTec's multifaceted approach, incorporating both outdoor and indoor cultivation methods along with laboratory developments for enhancing strains, highlights a holistic commitment to innovation and quality control in the booming medicinal cannabis sector.