Young producers from across Australia gathered in Roma for the 20th Young Beef Producers Forum, where they participated in two days of inspiring, life-changing advice and information sessions with industry professionals on the future of agriculture.
The informative event, held from Thursday, 14 November, to Friday, 15 November, provided educational, networking, and capacity-building opportunities for producers under the age of 40.
This year’s theme, Looking Forward, Looking Back, reflected on the past 10 years of major events, market trends, and consumption patterns in the global beef industry.
Attendees heard from numerous industry professionals including the chief executive officer of Cattle Australia Dr. Chris Parker, the chief financial officer of MDH Julie McDonald, National Party of Australia Leader Hon David Littleproud and many more.
All presentations covered aspects of life on and off the farm, including family, personal, and business-related challenges.
The forum officially began on Thursday morning with an on-property tour of Australian Country Choice’s Brindley Park Feedlot.
This was followed by inspirational presentations from industry professionals and a celebratory cocktail evening at the Roma Saleyards to conclude the day.
Day two featured additional educational presentations and the event’s highlight: the charity auction, where producers showed their support for local charities.
Maranoa Regional Council Mayor Wendy Taylor said the event continues to be a memorable calendar event.
“This annual forum continues to be a prominent and important calendar event focusing on our youth in agriculture–who are the future of our industry’s security and success,” Cr Taylor said.
“This forum provides participants with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wealth of knowledge from presenters and their host properties and learn first-hand about the opportunities and innovations that are emerging in the rural sector.
“Rural communities are reliant on our young people; they are the future of the agricultural industry.
“We need to be able to engage, connect and retain this valuable resource.”
Rabobank senior animal proteins analyst and keynote speaker Angus Gidley-Baird said the forum is a vital event for younger people in agriculture.
“It’s no longer just about your local district but the entire Australian beef-producer community as well,” he said.
“It’s important for the younger generation to work together as a cohort, exchanging ideas and innovations.
“This event reassures young producers that they are not alone and helps them build networks with others who may be in similar situations.”
During his presentation, Angus reflected on his experiences over the past decade and shared predictions for the next 10 years in global beef production.
After consulting with colleagues worldwide, Angus identified five key factors that will shape the industry in the coming decade: sustainability, technology, the urban-rural divide, biosecurity, and protectionism.
“Sustainability and technology offer opportunities for producers to better analyse their businesses and improve productivity, which I believe we will definitely see more of in the coming years,” he explained.
“The growing urban population creates a disconnected view and lack of awareness about on-farm challenges farmers face, alongside rising concerns about their overall welfare and social issues.
“Biosecurity is always critical and can significantly impact global trade, especially during a pandemic outbreak.
“Finally, the increasing focus on protectionism and local industry support may not be something producers can directly influence, but it positions them more favourably.”
Angus, a returning keynote speaker, recalled his previous presentation at the forum in 2018.
“Six years ago, the Future Farmers Network invited me to speak about consumer trends, as we hadn’t yet faced major trade disruptions like Covid-19,” he said.
“While there are some similarities between my presentations, the focus points were quite different.”
This year marks Angus’s tenth year in the industry, and he hopes to continue contributing to future forums.
“Depending on the theme, I’d love to speak at the next event,” he said.
“Congratulations to the organising team for running this fantastic event successfully for 20 years. You’ve all done a tremendous job.”
