Planning is well underway to bring national and overseas attention to the Santa Gertrudis breed and its enduring significance within the Australian beef supply chain.

Santa Gertrudis World Congress 2027, set for August 3-12 next year, will coincide with the breed’s 75^th jubilee, another drawcard for visitors expected to arrive from across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and nations from South America and the African continent.

Organisers this week are launching the event’s partnership and sponsorship prospectus, signalling a key phase in preparations and inviting industry and corporate stakeholders to be part of the landmark event.

Santa Gertrudis Breeders’ (Australia) Association general manager Brad Cooper said the organising committee was designing a global event with local impact.

“The Santa Gertrudis World Congress is shaping up as a multi-day, multi-location program designed to showcase Australia’s leadership in beef production, genetics, and innovation,” he said.

“At its core, the Congress will celebrate the success of one of Australia’s most influential cattle breeds while highlighting modern advances in sustainability, data-driven production, and global trade opportunities.”

Mr Cooper said that while the event would be largely Queensland-based, the Santa Gertrudis story had been a national success since the breed’s introduction to Australia in 1952, an achievement the World Congress would highlight through its theme: “Honouring our History, Advancing Our Future”.

Feature role at the Ekka

A key highlight of the 2027 program will be Santa Gertrudis cattle displayed as the Feature Breed at the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) — providing a significant platform to further elevate the breed’s profile both domestically and internationally.

However, beyond the show ring, Mr Cooper said the Congress would align closely with broader industry priorities, including:

• Strengthening Australia’s position as a global beef production powerhouse
• Expanding premium livestock and protein export markets
• Building investment, innovation and research partnerships

“Organisers are creating a powerful environment for knowledge exchange, commercial engagement and long-term relationship building across the global beef supply chain,” he said.

“Much of the program will take place in the heart of Santa Gertrudis country, on properties owned by long-standing producers who embody what our members do best: building one of Australia’s most productive and resilient beef breeds.”

From paddock to global stage

Since the first Santa Gertrudis cattle were introduced to Australia from King Ranch, Texas in 1952, the breed has become a cornerstone of many Australian beef systems.

Known for its adaptability, efficiency and performance across diverse environments, Santa Gertrudis cattle have played a vital role in supporting the productivity and resilience of Australia’s beef industry.

The 2027 Congress will provide an opportunity to reflect on this legacy while showcasing how genetics, technology, and sustainability practices are shaping the future of beef production.

Comprehensive program planned

The Congress program will extend across northern NSW and southern Queensland, Brisbane and the Darling Downs and west to Roma, incorporating both city-based and regional experiences, including:

• Industry networking events and official functions in Brisbane
• Property tours and site visit to other key facilities in the beef supply chain covering global genetics, research, market access, and innovation
• An elite Santa Gertrudis bull and female sale
• A massive store sale in Roma, featuring the depth and quality that Santa Gertrudis and Santa-infused animals consistently offer to the market.

“These elements are designed to provide delegates with hands-on exposure to leading production systems, as well as meaningful engagement with regional communities,” Mr Cooper said.

Partnership drive begins

With planning well advanced, the organising committee is now focused on securing strategic partners to support the Congress and maximise its impact.

A range of sponsorship opportunities has been released, including naming rights to selected events, event partnerships, and program-specific activations, offering brands the chance to connect directly with key decision-makers in the beef industry.

Mr Cooper said tailored partnership packages can be created to align with specific business objectives, regions, and target audiences.

“As preparations continue, the Santa Gertrudis World Congress 2027 is positioned to be not only a celebration of an historic milestone, but also a forward-looking event focused on the future of beef production globally,” he said.

“The launch of our partnership prospectus marks an important step in bringing the event to life, with stakeholders now invited to contribute to an initiative that aims to deliver lasting industry value.”

Media enquiries and partnership discussions are now open, with full commercial details to be released as planning progresses. To access the Partnership Prospectus, click here.