Colby Ede from Nutrien Ag Solutions with 2025 Livestock Export Young Achiever Jack Webb.

THE search is on for the next generation of leaders who will help shape the future of Australia’s livestock export industry.

The Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council, in partnership with Nutrien Ag Solutions, is calling for nominations for the 2026 Livestock Export Young Achiever of the Year award.

The award recognises an outstanding individual aged 35 or under who is making a significant contribution to Australia’s livestock export industry, demonstrating exceptional commitment, leadership, innovation and passion.

The 2026 award comes at an important time for the industry, following the launch of the Live Cattle Growth Plan – an ambitious 10-year blueprint designed to strengthen the industry, unlock new opportunities and deliver sustainable growth and prosperity.

ALEC CEO Mark Harvey-Sutton said the Plan provided an opportunity for the industry’s next generation to play a key role in its delivery.

“The Live Cattle Growth Plan sets an ambitious vision for the next 10 years, but achieving that vision will require talented, passionate and capable people across every part of the supply chain,” Mr Harvey-Sutton said.

“Our young professionals are already making an enormous contribution to this industry, from farms and stations through to feedlots, logistics, animal health, shipping, international markets and trade.

“The Young Achiever of the Year award is an opportunity to recognise those emerging leaders and celebrate the people who will help shape the future of our industry.”

The award is open to individuals working across the livestock export supply chain who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their role, their industry and the communities in which they operate.

Nutrien Ag Solutions Livestock Business Development Manager, Colby Ede said the award provided an important opportunity to recognise and encourage the next generation.

“There is an incredible depth of talent and enthusiasm among young people working in the livestock export industry,” Mr Ede said.

“These are the people bringing new ideas, energy and ambition to the sector while building the skills and relationships that will be critical to its future.

“Nutrien Ag Solutions is proud to support an award that shines a light on their achievements and helps them continue developing as future leaders.”

The 2026 recipient will receive the opportunity to participate in the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s TRAIL Emerging Leaders program, with travel and accommodation costs covered.

Nominations close Friday, September 25 and the winner will be announced at the Livestock Export Industry Dinner in Sydney on November 5.

To make a nomination, email a one-page statement to ceo@livexcouncil.com.au that includes the nominees name, their experience and the achievements that make them worthy of becoming the next Young Achiever.

Source: ALEC