Frank Sciacca: “There’s so much beauty in the interconnectedness of life within the Reef and on our farms"

Over two decades ago, Frank Sciacca took a bold step. Disillusioned by the chemicals and pesticides used in conventional farming methods, he was inspired to make a positive change.

Driven by a belief in working with nature rather than against it, Frank, with his wife Dianne, created the Ecoganic™ farming system on their Innisfail-based banana farm. This system removes the use of chemical pesticides and reduces the harmful sediment running into the connecting waterways that flow out into the Great Barrier Reef.

Recognisable by their unique "red tip," Eco Bananas has committed to sustainable farming practices that nurture the land, support vital ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef and deliver high-quality produce.

Now an industry leader, Frank’s dedication to environmental stewardship and the wellbeing of the Reef has earned him widespread respect and recognition. While the accolades are appreciated, Frank says inspiring other farmers to adopt these values and contribute to conservation efforts is the true reward.

In this Q&A, Frank shares his journey, values, and the connection between sustainable farming and Reef conservation.

“I didn’t really have a choice. My journey into Ecoganic™ farming came from an urgent need to care for the land and a personal belief in respecting nature, learning from it and working in harmony with it. That belief grew into Eco Bananas, where our focus is on creating a balance between producing food and supporting the environment. This balance is key to ensuring the survival of both agriculture and natural ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef.

“The Reef is one of the most magnificent ecosystems on the planet, and it’s not just visually stunning – it’s functionally brilliant. It’s not just its beauty that captivated me but how each organism plays an important role in its survival. Every species in the Reef depends on one another to thrive, and that’s a lesson for all of us.

The Reef is also a global indicator of the planet's health. It’s an interconnected system, just like our farms and communities. The interconnectedness of life within the Reef mirrors what happens on farms – the health of one part impacts the whole. This connection sparked my passion to find ways to protect both the land and the ocean.

“Farming isn’t just about growing food; it’s about nurturing an ecosystem. I want to leave behind a legacy of respect for nature, showing that it’s possible to grow food in a way that supports, rather than depletes, the environment. We are not separate from nature, and this understanding drives my work.

“It's becoming a voice for nature and inspiring other farmers to do the same. Through Eco Bananas, I have the privilege to highlight the importance of respecting ecosystems, whether it’s in the soil or in the ocean. We can show people that there’s a better way to farm, one that sustains both humans and the environment. 

Winning recognition and awards for this work is wonderful, but seeing others adopt these values and contribute to conservation efforts is the true reward.

Our Ecoganic banana group have been donating to the Great Barrier Reef Foundation for over 20 years. This type of commitment shows that sustainable farming can make a real impact, not just locally but for global ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef. 

“I would still work with an organisation that shared my values – an organisation that believed in respecting and nurturing the environment. I’m passionate about making a positive impact, so I would continue to dedicate myself to causes that align with my principles.

“While I’m guided by science, I also deeply believe in the power of spirituality and connection to the land. Science helps us measure and understand nature, but there’s more to it – there’s an emotional and spiritual connection that we shouldn’t overlook. Traditional Owners have been caretakers for this land for thousands of years, before we had all the science, and it’s important that we don’t lose sight of this as we move forward with conservation efforts.