BeefUp 2016: Making the most of the current situation and positioning your business for the future

Planning ahead was the theme of the Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) BeefUp Day held in Alice Springs on 28 July. Record prices received at the local cattle sale, held on the same day after being postponed due to good rain, reiterated the fact that the cattle industry is in a strong position at present.

(Above) Brad Seymour, Wally Klein, Billy Nelson and Chris Nott catch up

After a welcome by the Alice Springs Producer Industry Advisory Committee (ASPIAC) Chair, the Managing Director of MLA, Richard Norton, provided a market update and shared his vision on future opportunities and challenges in the beef industry. Strong competition can be expected from the likes of Brazil with a cattle herd of 220 million but Australia, and Central Australia in particular, are well positioned to provide a high quality product. Richard said data management, connectivity and animal welfare will have an even bigger influence over time. The Program Manager for Animal Health and Welfare, Jim Rothwell, updated attendants on progress in development of a commercial product for chemical spaying. Other presentations ranged from drone technology to resilient rural businesses and keeping quality staff.

During the day MLA Managers provided feedback on research, development and extension outcomes while producers identified future research needs relevant to the Alice Springs region.

These needs will be deliberated by ASPIAC together with DPIR staff to inform future research priorities.  For further information on the BeefUp day please contact the DPIR office in Alice Springs.