The Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF) has announced the appointment of five new members to its Steering Group (SG), bringing a wealth of experience and regional representation to guide the Framework.
The ABSF sets out the key indicators of performance in sustainability for the beef industry. It enables success to be recognised through evidence-based metrics and empowers the industry to continually improve and demonstrate its values to customers, investors and stakeholders.
According to the ABSF's SG Chair, Patrick Hutchinson, the ABSF plays an essential role in Australian beef production.
"Core to the ABSF is the belief that sustainability is the production of beef in a manner that is socially, environmentally, and economically responsible," Mr Hutchinson said.
"The industry does this through the care of natural resources, people and the community, the health and welfare of animals, and the drive for continuous improvement.
"The objectives of the SG members are to continuously strengthen the impact and relevance of the ABSF through material issue examination and robust annual reporting.
"They also do this while communicating the Australian beef sustainability credentials on the domestic and global stage, ensuring a science based objective representation of material topics to the industry."
The new appointees are:
- Bryce Camm – CEO, Camm Agricultural Group (QLD), Past Chair of Australian Lot Feeders Association (ALFA) and Beef Australia, and current Cattle Australia (CA) Board Director.
- Olivia Lawson – Director and Co-Principal, Paringa Livestock Pty Ltd (VIC), Landcare Sustainable Farmer of the Year 2014, and former Director of the Cattle Council of Australia.
- Paul McDougall – Manager, Natural Capital, Paraway Pastoral Company (NSW), a soil scientist with extensive experience in environmental and biodiversity initiatives.
- Brad Robinson – Manager, Sustainability, Mort & Co Ltd (QLD), with a strong background in feedlot management and industry leadership.
- Scott Strachan – Head of Sustainability and Environment, Harvest Road Group (WA), an environmental scientist with a PhD and expertise in data-driven sustainability strategies.
These appointments follow the conclusion of tenures for Jenny O'Sullivan, Michael Maxwell, Carl Duncan, and former Chair Mark Davie.
The new members join existing Steering Group members Patrick Hutchinson (Chair), Kari Moffat, Jessica Loughland, Amy Brooks, and Peter Gall.
"We are thrilled to welcome Bryce, Olivia, Paul, Brad, and Scott to the Steering Group. Each brings a unique perspective and deep expertise that will be invaluable as we continue to evolve the Framework," Mr Hutchinson said.
"Their diverse backgrounds, from environmental science and natural capital to on-farm operations and industry leadership, reflect the broad scope of sustainability in the beef sector.
"I'd also like to extend our sincere thanks to our outgoing members for their dedication and contributions, particularly Mark Davie for his leadership as Chair.
"As we look to the future, the ABSF remains committed to transparency, continuous improvement, and ensuring the Australian beef industry remains a global leader in sustainable production."
Bryce Camm, CEO, Camm Agricultural Group
Olivia Lawson – Director and Co-Principal, Paringa Livestock Pty Ltd
Paul McDougall – Manager, Natural Capital, Paraway Pastoral Company
Brad Robinson – Manager, Sustainability, Mort & Co Ltd
Scott Strachan – Head of Sustainability and Environment, Harvest Road Group
