THE Australian Brahman Breeders Association’s board issued a short statement this morning confirming that chief executive officer Robert Biddle has left the organisation.

ABBA chief executive, Robert Biddle

Mr Biddle was appointed only in November, and took up his responsibilities in January following the retirement of veteran breed administrator, John Croaker.

The ABBA board is meeting over two days in Rockhampton this week. Its statement said Mr Biddle no longer holds any position within the Association. No reason was offered for his departure.

At the time of his appointment, ABBA’s then-president Shane Bishop said Mr Biddle had extensive experience in business and financial management, trading of commodities and management of extensive agricultural operations. He was described as an “enthusiastic person with excellent communication, presentation and organisational skills.”

“I am confident Robert has the ability to adapt to the new challenges involved with the position and the leadership skills and personality to build strong relationships among our membership and the broader cattle and beef industry to continue the advancement of our breed and the Association” Mr Bishop said.

Prior to his ABBA appointment, Mr Biddle was director of business – consultant with MG Corporation, which holds large agricultural, cattle grazing and aquaculture investments in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Earlier, he managed a wool and sheep classing operation covering all regions of NSW, Western Queensland and parts of South Australia and Victoria, including sire mating for commercial and stud groups, AI and ET program selection.

The ABBA will now undertake a recruitment process to seek a replacement, Beef Central was told.

• Beef Central’s recent summary of 2016 calf registrations with the Australian Registered Cattle Breeders Association showed registrations of 24,500 Brahman animals last year, ranking the breed third among all breeds after Angus and Hereford. Click here to view report.