Widespread rains across northern Queensland have reinvigorated the region's cattle producers with a new sense of optimism and a desire to set the industry on the path to meet its full potential.
A strong and profitable future - and how producers can prepare for and be part of that - is the purpose of AgForce's Advancing Beef Forum being held in Charters Towers on Friday 6 March.
The Forum is sponsored by MLA, underlining the importance of the event in setting the national agenda.
AgForce's North Queensland Regional President Matt Bennetto said the Forum would discuss a range of issues central to the northern industry's development including profitability, sustainability, regenerative practices, and supply chain issues.
"The northern herd is starting to rebuild after the devastating floods last year and, with pastures in many regions now recovering after several years of dry, this is the right time to plan for the future," said Mr Bennetto, a local cattle producer.
"The beef industry up here has some significant opportunities and competitive advantages over producers elsewhere in Australia, but we also have our own unique challenges.
"The Forum will feature a line-up of experienced, respected players from across the beef supply chain to address these issues.
"MLA's Mick Crowley will talk about increasing value across the supply chain and Michele Lally will discuss the importance of reducing the 'gap' between producers and consumers, drawing on her experience with boutique supplier Australian Micro Abattoir.
"With more consumers demanding ethically produced red meat, sustainability and animal welfare will be a focus of discussions.
"NQ cattle legend Peter Hall will discuss animal pain relief from a producer's perspective, while Sam Skeet from NQDT Grazing will lead local producers in a discussion about the emerging concept of regenerative agriculture.
"AgForce Partners FTI Consulting and Acumentis will lead sessions on improving farm viability and rural property valuation trends."
Mr Bennetto said a networking function the evening prior to the Forum would provide an opportunity for producers to share ideas and build connections throughout the industry.
"I hope the social element, as well as the best practice focus, will encourage producers who have not been to an AgForce event - especially the next generation of graziers - to get involved in their industry's success".
