More than 500 stakeholders from across the beef supply chain have walked away optimistic about the future and ready to collaborate on the big issues facing the industry, following last Thursday’s Cattle Connect producer day.
Held at Bective Station, Tamworth, NSW, Cattle Connect was Cattle Australia’s inaugural conference and producer day, providing delegates the opportunity to hear from Australian and global experts on the changing dynamics of food production.
Topics covered included the need to provide consumers with the permission they are seeking to feel good about eating beef, the challenges of maintaining Australia’s world-leading biosecurity status, and the importance of producers understanding their rights and obligations as our nation re-imagines our energy system.
CA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Chris Parker, said the conversations that ensued highlighted the grass-fed beef industry’s proactiveness in seeking to address many of the challenges that need to be addressed now and into the future for the industry’s sustainability.
“CA is committed to tackling the tough issues and not shying away from difficult conversations that affect our profitability, productivity and sustainability,” Dr Parker said.
“Cattle Connect was a coming-of-age moment for our organisation. Given the impact CA has had in uniting producers, advocating on their behalf and in shaping policy, it’s easy to forget the organisation is only two years old.
“From the ideas and feedback we received on the grounds at Cattle Connect, as well as the strong display of support from our members and stakeholders, and our new initiatives to support the next generation of beef industry participants, it is clear the industry is well placed for the future.”
In fact, more than 50 local high school students attended Cattle Connect, while CA’s National Beef Leaders awardees, all aged between 18 and 35, received their first round of training, networking and mentoring at the event.
“CA is committed to holding Cattle Connect again in 2025, as part of a calendar of events and activities to connect, build knowledge and increase collaboration among producers, the supply chain and policy makers,” Dr Parker said.