A RECORD 19 entries have been received for the Australian Lot Feeders Association’s Young Lot Feeder of the Year 2021 Award, to be announced at the upcoming ALFA SmartBeef conference to be held at Dalby in October.

Six finalists representing feedlots in four states have been chosen from the talent pool for the final stages of the annual award, which embodies passion, leadership, and vision for lotfeeding.

This year’s finalists are:

• Caitlin Herbert, Gundamain Pastoral NSW
• James Guest, Smithfied Cattle Co – Sapphire QLD
• Kailen Hodgson, Teys Australia Charlton VIC
• Kelly Dudley, B Feeders Rodgers Creek QLD
• Lucy Morris, Lake Preston WA
• Simon Kensit, AA Co Goonoo QLD

Caitlin Herbert

Kailen Hodgson

ALFA president Bryce Camm said the quality and number of entrants received this year was testament to the sector’s work in attracting, retaining, and upskilling its talent.

“We have heavily invested in promoting the various career opportunities in the lotfeeding sector to those seeking a rewarding career,” Mr Camm said.

“Sustained support and initiative from feedlot managers in encouraging their staff to participate has ensured the award has gone from strength the strength.

The Young Lotfeeder of the Year award sits within a greater Recognition of Excellence Program that ALFA delivers on behalf of industry, and is one of the many ways the lotfeeding sector seeks to recognise and reward individuals and businesses that strive for excellence.

James Guest

Kelly Dudley

“We thank our long-time sponsor and ALFA Platinum Member, Performance Feeds, which has continued to support the professional development of lotfeeding talent. It is extremely pleasing to be able to highlight the achievements and aspirations of our future leaders through this Award,” Mr Camm said.

Finalists now progress to a second judging round, including an interview with the independent judging panel in August. The outcome of that round will determine who will progress in the competition as one of three Grand Finalists.

The winner receives $5000 towards undertaking a professional development course or overseas study trip and a grainfed beef industry scholarship to attend the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s TRAIL: for emerging leaders program, valued at $10,450.

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Simon Kensit

Lucy Morris

• 2020 Young Lot Feeder of the Year, Molly Sage, will present the 2021 winner’s cup at the ALFA SmartBeef 2021 conference to be held at Dalby Events Centre on 20 October.