THE good news is it’s January, it’s been raining, cattle markets have had a kick and there’s now less than 100 days to go until Beef Australia 2015.

It is also the best time to act to make sure you are part of the celebrations and competitions in Rockhampton on May 4-9. First and foremost, nominations for the Landmark Stud Cattle Championships close tomorrow, 30 January.

Blair Angus

If you haven’t already entered your cattle, don’t waste any time in jumping on the Beef Australia website where you can complete all of the necessary forms.

Second, if you love cooking with beef, then you should enter our street food competition.

We’re looking for our very own Signature Dish than can be easily prepared and that visitors to the event can eat with their hands. The winning dish will be served at the Rockhampton Showgrounds throughout the week of Beef Australia 2015, with all profits going to charity.

And the winner will be flown to the expo to demonstrate the dish on stage alongside some of the best Australian and international chefs.

The competition is open to everyone from chefs to home cooks, but entrants must use Australian secondary beef cuts as the hero in their tasty dish to help highlight to consumers the versatility of beef.

And finally, if you haven’t booked accommodation, you need to start seriously thinking about the Beef Australian Tent City or the Lions Club Homestay Program.

The Lions have established a website where residents of Rockhampton and surrounds can advertise their homes for rent to visitors for the week. Prospective clients can negotiate directly with the property owners, with Lions charging an advertising fee as a means of raising funds for their charitable work.

• For access to all Beef 2015 event activities from seminars and conferences to cattle competitions and social and entertainment opportunities click here.