Global issues debated at BeefEx as government officials weigh-in

Australia’s record-breaking lot feeding sector hosted both sides of government at its premier conference BeefEx, hosted by the peak industry body Australian Lot Feeders’ Association (ALFA), with sustainability and energy high on the agenda.

Global market trends, economic drivers and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues took centre stage as more than 850 delegates heard how the Australian lot feeding sector can navigate these expectations while developing a prosperous industry.

Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton joined a panel of experts - including Nuffield Scholar Catherine Marriott, NAPCO General Manager Darryl Savage and Meat & Livestock Australia’s Matt Van der Saag talking about sustainability and what it means at a feedlot level.

Catherine told the crowd that her global research proved Australia has an opportunity to lead ESG practices with a focus on practical solutions for international market engagement.

She stressed Australia needs to practise “systems thinking” rather than addressing and implementing single issue agendas for the “complex and inconvenient” agrifood industry.

“I think that we have an opportunity in Australia to really lead the change,” Mrs Marriott said.

“We’ve got markets that aren’t in as big a rush as I thought we needed to be when I started my Nuffield [journey]. ESG is hugely important and the ones that will win are the ones that are being proactive.”

Earlier in the program, Federal Assistant Minister for Agriculture Anthony Chisholm reiterated the Government’s Commitment to the $519.1 million Future Drought Fund - across eight years.

ALFA President Barb Madden said BeefEx was proof that the industry is sought by law-makers for its opinion on vital nation-shaping challenges, such as sustainability.

“Our feedlot industry not only helps feed the country and the globe, it also turns over more than $8.07 billion a year and contributes more than $920 million to Australia’s gross domestic product,” Mrs Madden said.

“With numbers on feed continually breaking records, a positive outlook for global beef demand and an appetite for Australian product, the feedlot sector is well-placed to work with governments to advance agriculture’s role in a dynamic and sustainable world market.”

Other highlights from BeefEx 2024 included Queensland’s Super Butcher Joel Giacomantonio outlining the opportunities for grain fed beef due to its consistent quality and superior eating characteristics.

He told delegates that customers demand meat that “delivers on taste” and while the feedlot sector excelled in this part of the market, more work was needed to provide information to butchers about the benefits of grain fed beef so they can confidently promote the sector.

Feedlot Consultant, Bovine Dynamics Dr Melissa George shared findings from research at NSW Rangers Valley feedlot - proving long-fed Angus cattle with access to permanent shade and wood chip had higher exit, hot standard carcase weight and average daily gain compared to animals without shelter or bedding.

Wrapping up the conference was singer-songwriter John Schumann of critically acclaimed band Redgum, who treated the audience to a live rendition of his song “I was only 19”.