The Australian Lot Feeders' Association (ALFA) today announced a strategic move to retire its long-standing SmartBeef Conference after nearly two decades of hosting the industry technical focused event, to focus on enhancing its professional development offering and growing its showcase conference, BeefEx.
The decision comes as ALFA seeks to cater to the evolving Australian lot feeding sector. The association will redirect its resources towards the newly launched ALFA Future Feeders Network, which will host its inaugural regional forum in September 2025, and continue to develop the comprehensive BeefEx conference, scheduled for 2026 on the Gold Coast.
Since its inception as BeefWorks and later rebranded as SmartBeef, the conference has brought together researchers, industry practitioners, technology innovators, and agricultural experts to discuss cutting-edge developments in feedlot production, animal welfare, sustainability, and technological advancements.
ALFA President Grant Garey said the conference has been a great opportunity for knowledge sharing and professional networking for lot feeding professionals across Australia over the last 20 years.
“Our decision to retire this event is not taken lightly, however represents a forward-looking approach to how we support and develop our industry's talent and capabilities."
The retirement of SmartBeef coincides with ALFA's increased investment in two key strategic initiatives: the newly launched ALFA Future Feeders Network and the expansion of the biennial BeefEx conference.
"The ALFA Future Feeders Network represents our commitment to nurturing the next generation of lot feeding professionals," Mr Garey said.
"Our inaugural regional forum in September 2025 will provide new opportunities for young industry professionals to connect, learn, and shape the future of the Australian lot feeding sector."
The BeefEx conference, scheduled to be held in 2026 on the Gold Coast, will now incorporate many of the technical and professional development elements that made SmartBeef a renowned event. This expansion ensures that the depth of technical knowledge and networking opportunities will continue to be a hallmark of ALFA's event programming.
ALFA remains steadfast in its mission to support and advance the lot feeding industry. The retirement of SmartBeef represents a strategic milestone in the association's commitment to developing industry capacity and meeting the needs of the evolving lot feeding sector.
For more information on the ALFA Future Feeders Network, visit feedlots.com.au/ffnetwork. To view upcoming ALFA events, training and professional development programs, head to feedlots.com.au/training-career-development.
ENDS.
Media Enquiries:
Grant Garey
ALFA President
(02) 9290 3700
Annabelle Madden
ALFA Communications & Marketing Coordinator
0417 610 150