Now in its ninth year, the national initiative aims to encourage and develop the next generation of Australian beef industry leaders.

“The Rising Champions program is not just about recognising the skills of young producers within our industry today, it is about equipping them with the tools to harness their passion and build the industry of tomorrow,” said Cattle Council of Australia president Howard Smith.

2017 National Rising Champion Kylie Stretton said the initiative had been invaluable in providing here with a clearer picture of “what I want the beef industry to look like in the future and what I can do to achieve those goals.”

Kylie will represent Australia at the 2018 International Beef Alliance (IBA) to be held in Canada in October 2018 and recently participated in Cattle Council committee meetings in March.

The 2018 NAB Agribusiness Rising Beef Industry Champion Initiative is open to producers aged between 21 and 35 years of age.

One finalist from each State and Territory will attend the annual leadership development workshop in Canberra in August.

The 2018 national announcement coincides with Cattle Council of Australia board and committee meetings to extend the networking opportunities for the finalists.  The finalist that demonstrates the greatest leadership potential will win the title of ‘2018 NAB Rising Beef Industry Champion’ to be announced at the Gala Dinner held on the 14 August 2018.

Finalists will also have the opportunity to take up guest speaking roles as well as contributing to other youth focused industry/government functions.

Source: Cattle Council of Australia. For further details on how to apply and specific dates on activities please visit www.cattlecouncil.com.au/risingchampions