AUSTRALIA’S largest cattle company has this week come on board as a partner for one of the most prestigious awards for young people in the Australian and New Zealand cattle industry.
The Australian Agricultural Company (AACo), which owns and operates stations, feedlots and farms on about 6.4 million hectares of land in Queensland and the Northern Territory, has backed the Zanda McDonald Award, which is presented yearly to a person aged 21 to 35 years-old giving them a chance to travel and expand their network in the cattle industry.
Winners are given a $10,000 training package and have a trip across Australia or NZ tailored to their career aspirations.
AACo Managing Director and CEO Hugh Killen said the company was hoping to play a role in developing the next generation of industry leaders.
“AACo has been helping grow agriculture in Australia for almost 200 years and our association with the Zanda McDonald Award continues this legacy,” Mr Killen said.
“The Zanda McDonald Award is all about making a difference in agriculture. It recognises determination and passion, giving the winner an opportunity to develop their skills and make a lasting difference.
“These are values and attributes that align well with our commitment to drive positive change, and with our purpose: evolving together to benefit future generations. Our focus on sustainability, including an emphasis on shaping agriculture to meet the needs of a changing world, makes this partnership a natural fit.
“We’re thrilled to be associated with the award and help to mentor future industry leaders.”
Richard Rains, Chairman of the Zanda McDonald Award said the partnership was a boost for the awards.
“We are thrilled to have AACo join our family of partners,” he said. “Their commitment really strengthens our ability to help take future leaders’ careers to the next level, providing a positive impact on the broader industry.”
This year’s award winners are expected to be announced in February after it was postponed last November.
Source: Zanda McDonald Award
Good to see Richard Rains still involved in the meat industry. Although in a different capacity these days. I remember when he came to Australia from England to run the Sanger meat export business. That was a long time ago. And he’s still around. Good on’ya Richard.
Well done AACo.