BeefEx, the Australian Lot Feeders’ Association (ALFA) premier conference, has kicked-off with insights into important global markets - and a touch of opera.
With record breaking attendance, over 800 BeefEx delegates were treated to a spectacular performance to start the day, courtesy of First Nations singer Nina Korbe.
Nina - who thanked the audience for their commitment to excellence in grain fed beef production - is also well acquainted with the meat industry. The opera star’s “other” job is working at Andrews Meats in Indooroopilly, Queensland.
It was then down to business, with EU political scientist and commentator Professor Ralph Schoellhammer telling the Brisbane crowd how cost-effective energy underpins the growth and profitability of Australian agriculture.
And US intensive animal industries consultant Joe Kerns Said the world view for the Australian beef industry “almost” could not be better – predicting the value of beef cattle to rise from 2026.
He said this positive outlook came off the back of tightening global supplies, resilient demand, almost no substitution risk, a “comfortable” grain situation and long production cycles- which are difficult to change.
ALFA President Barb Madden said starting BeefEx with fresh global perspectives set the scene for an inspiring conference.
“BeefEx is a great opportunity to share knowledge and learn from the experience of others - and in this case we are getting a unique understanding of how we, as Australian lot feeders, can better prepare for what lies ahead,” Mrs Madden said.
“It’s the same for the rest of the conference, with Queensland’s own Super Butcher, Joel Giacomantonio, sharing the conversations he has with customers about grain fed beef to expand the industry’s understanding of consumer trends.”
In addition to providing shop-front feedback to the Australian feedlot industry - and in a BeefEx first - Joel will put his culinary skills to the test with Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) Corporate Chef, Sam Burke, whipping-up some delectable grain fed beef during the conference.
Other highlights include more than 90 exhibitors, showcasing new industry services and products and the ever-popular Coopers Allflex Gala Dinner rounding out the first day.
Delegates from across the globe, including Austria, Belgium, France, India, Indonesia, Israel, US, Netherlands, New Zealand and Singapore, have joined the 300 plus strong contingent of nation-wide Australian grain fed beef producers at BeefEx 2024.
ALFA President Mrs Madden said it was pleasing to see the entire industry represented at BeefEx 2024.
“We had a real surge of lot feeders with capacity of under 1,000 head join the event this year. Seeing them mix with the larger operators provides real value for both parties and has helped us continue to truly nurture our vibrant feedlot community,” Mrs Madden said.
“This unique opportunity for us all to come together biennially, to collaborate and to networking, is what makes BeefEx so special.”
For more information visit beefex.com.au
ENDS.
Media Enquiries:
Barb Madden
ALFA President info@feedlots.com.au
(02) 9290 3700
Annabelle Madden
Marketing & Communication Coordinator
0417 610 150