THREE high achieving individuals have been named finalists in the Australian Lot Feeders Association’s 2024 Excellence in Feedlot Education awards.

Sponsored by Zoetis, the Education Medal is designed to recognise individuals actively investing in upskilling themselves through feedlot specific training on the Australian feedlot training, education & careers hub, Feedlot TECH.

Following a second round of judging involving interviews with finalists and their managers, three entrants have been progressed as finalists, each showcasing a strong commitment to both professional and career development.

This year’s finalists are:

• April Kratzmann, Livestock movements supervisor at Smithfield Cattle Co’s Sapphire feedlot. Her nominated training course was Fundamentals of Livestock Handling – Team Leader
• Erin Gaff, Q&A compliance coordinator, Condabri feedlot. Her nominated training course was Fundamentals of Livestock Handling – Team Leader
• Kate Andison, Logistics & admin manager, Reid River export depot. Her nominated training course was ALFA Animal Welfare Officer Accredited Training

The finalists will receive complimentary tickets to ALFA’s BeefEx 2024 Conference in October, where the overall medal winner will be announced.

ALFA president Barb Madden said the ALFA Excellence in Feedlot Education Medal underscored the Association’s commitment to fostering a skilled and engaged workforce in the Australian feedlot industry.

“Through initiatives like the Education Medal and Feedlot TECH itself, ALFA is aiding in building a workforce that’s not only skilled, but passionate about advancing their careers and our industry,” Mrs Madden said.

“It is an absolute pleasure to showcase the remarkable achievements and ambitions of our up-and-coming industry talent through the medal.”

Delivered on behalf of industry as part of ALFA’s Recognition of Excellence Program, the award is one of many ways the lotfeeding sector seeks to recognise and celebrate individuals and businesses that strive for excellence.

“We thank our long-standing sponsor and ALFA Platinum Member, Zoetis, for their continuous support of the professional development of our industry’s rising talent,” Mrs Madden said.

• The overall winner of ALFA’s 2024 Excellence in Feedlot Education Medal will be announced at the BeefEx 2024 conference being held in Brisbane from 15-17 October. Early bird tickets are available until 6 September.