Image Source: ALFA (BeefEx Conference 2024)

THE future of the feedlot sector is going to be the focus of the Australian Lot Feeders Association inaugural Future Feeders Network Forum on Wednesday, 17 September at The Empire Theatre in Toowoomba.

The FFN is a national platform for young professionals under 35 working in the feedlot sector which aims to connect, support, and empower the next generation of leaders in Australia’s grain fed beef industry.

ALFA President, Grant Garey, said the forum program reflects ALFA’s ongoing commitment to investing in people.

“Attracting and retaining talent is one of the most important challenges facing our industry, and initiatives like this play a key role in building a strong, connected, and capable workforce,” Mr Garey said.

“ALFA is proud to support the Future Feedlot Network and the development of initiatives that bring people together, foster career development, and position the industry for long-term success.”

Driven by the newly formed FFN Committee, chaired by 2023 Young Lot Feeder of the Year Tim Brennan, the network delivers strategic, industry-focused initiatives to build skills, foster collaboration and grow leadership capability across the sector.

Established in January, the committee comprises of:

• April Kratzmann – Smithfield Cattle Company
• Brianna Meacle – Whyalla Beef
• Caitlin Herbert – Gundamain Pastoral Co
• Edwina Warby – Black Box Co
• Kassandra Lees – McIntyre Agriculture – Mooramanna Feedlot
• Timothy Mitchell – Drury Farming Company Pty Ltd – Condabri Feedlot
• Tom Harrington – Australian Country Choice

Set to attract up to 200 attendees from across the country, the inaugural FFN Forum will bring together emerging leaders and industry stakeholders for a dynamic one-day event, culminating in a soiree networking function.

While the program was developed with younger participants in mind, the forum is open to all ages.

The forward-looking program is designed to equip the next generation of lot feeders with the insights, skills and connections to thrive in an evolving industry.

“The program brings together a mix of practical and thought-provoking content designed to support the next generation of lot feeders,” said FFN Committee Chair, Tim Brennan.

The line up of speakers includes ALFA President and General Manager Feedlots at Teys Australia, Grant Garey; Lisa Sharp, CEO of Stockyard Beef and Lyndsey and Patrice Douglas from Centred for Success, who will guide a session on personal brand storytelling.

“Through a series of interactive panels, attendees will also explore mentorship, networking and career development opportunities, while hearing directly from employers about the skills needed for the workforce of tomorrow,” said Mr Brennan.

“It’s set to be a dynamic and engaging event – one not to be missed.”

Strategically scheduled, the Meat and Livestock Australia R&D Symposium will take place at the same venue the following day. ALFA encourages Future Feeder Network Forum attendees to take advantage of the opportunity to extend their knowledge on the latest feedlot R&D by registering for the symposium.

Tickets to the ALFA Future Feeders Network Forum and the MLA R&D Symposium are available now via the ALFA website.