Lotfeeders and grainfed industry stakeholders can expect an impressive lineup of international and domestic speakers at the Australian feedlot industry’s biennial BeefEx 2024 conference coming up in October.

The Australian Lot Feeders Association has curated a list of headline speakers from across the globe to share insights into diverse topics including markets, trade, environmental and sustainability regulations, artificial intelligence, staff recruitment and decision-making under pressure.

BeefEx takes place in Brisbane from 15-17 October.

ALFA President Barb Madden said this year’s program explores challenges and opportunities faced at feedlots every day, as well as big-picture, future-thinking ideas to challenge feedlot businesses and industry perceptions.

“We are excited to bring the latest insights to our sector and we look forward to welcoming the array of talent we have on the program this October,” she said.

Keynote speakers

Saving the lives of 460 people, Qantas A380 captain Richard de Crespigny sure knows what it’s like to work under pressure. Thanks to Lallemand Animal Nutrition, lot feeders will get to hear his story of leadership, teamwork and problem solving. While we may not be flying a plane, there’s a lot to learn about the best way to handle a crisis.

Professor Ralph Schoellhammer will share how Australian agriculture must be bold and innovative to secure its future, off the back of his experience working with the European agriculture, mining and energy sectors.

A fresh take on operational sustainability, leadership, commodity markets and the supply chain will come from US intensive animal industries consultant Joe Kerns, while Queensland Rugby League Chief Executive Ben Ikin will provide his tips of “picking” the right team.

Lotfeeders will take to the stage to share their insights and stories, and Joel Giacomantonio from Super Butcher will provide the low-down on customer conversations and grain fed beef trends with chef Gary Johnson exploring what really drives customer behaviour.

Taking the program back into the feedlot, University of Queensland’s Dr Sarah Meale will explain the science behind the industry’s holy grail combination to reduce methane and increase productivity.

“There is something for everyone in this year’s program and that’s without even considering the social aspects of the program and networking,” Mrs Madden said.

“Being a demanding and fast paced sector, it’s important to us that we provide people with a chance to learn about what’s on the horizon, facilitate connections and most importantly, put on a good show.”

BeefEx 2024 is expected to attract more than 700 delegates and a full exhibition trade show from across the supply chain at the RNA Showgrounds in Brisbane on October 15-17.

• Early bird tickets to BeefEx are on sale now.
• Register via the BeefEx website here 
• More information click here