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MSA Excellence in Eating Quality Awards 2025

MSA Graded

Australia’s leading beef producers have been recognised for delivering consistently high eating quality outcomes through the Meat Standards Australia (MSA) program, with the winners of the 2025 MSA Excellence in Eating Quality Awards announced by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).

The awards celebrate producers, feedlotters and processors who demonstrate sustained excellence under the MSA grading system, reinforcing the importance of eating quality in differentiating Australian red meat for domestic and global consumers.

The 2025 award recipients were acknowledged at an industry event held in Adelaide, bringing together stakeholders from across the red meat value chain to recognise best practice in producing high-quality beef.

Recognising excellence in eating quality

Program Manager for Meat Standards Australia, David Packer, said the awards highlight the dedication and innovation of producers who strive for excellent in eating quality.

“These winners represent the best of the best in our industry. Achieving consistently high MSA Index scores and compliance requires a deep understanding of genetics, nutrition, and animal welfare,” Dr Packer said.

“It’s not just about meeting standards; it’s about exceeding them to deliver an exceptional eating experience every time.”

“Their commitment ensures consumers can trust the quality of beef on their plate.”

About Meat Standards Australia

Developed by MLA, Meat Standards Australia is a world-leading eating quality grading program underpinned by extensive consumer sensory testing. MSA predicts eating quality at the cut level based on factors such as pH, ossification and marbling, providing reliable feedback across the supply chain.

The program empowers producers to improve on-farm practices and supports the delivery of beef that is consistently tender, juicy and flavoursome for consumers.

How the awards are determined

The MSA Excellence in Eating Quality Awards recognise producers who consistently achieve exceptional results under the MSA grading system. Awards are presented across three categories:

  • Most Outstanding MSA Feedlot – for feedlot operators delivering superior eating quality outcomes across their consigned cattle.
  • Most Outstanding MSA Non-Feedlot Band 1 – for non-feedlot producers with annual consignments of 500 head or more.
  • Most Outstanding MSA Non-Feedlot Band 2 – for non-feedlot producers with annual consignments between 100 and 500 head.

Award recipients are selected based on MSA Index performance and compliance to MSA minimum specifications.

The MSA Index is a benchmarking tool that reflects the predicted eating quality of an entire beef carcase. Ranging from 30 to 80, the Index is calculated as a weighted average across 39 cuts of the carcase and reflects the influence of management, environmental and genetic factors prior to slaughter. It can be used consistently across processors, geographic regions and over time.

2025 MSA Eating Quality Award Winners

Most Outstanding MSA Feedlot

  • NSW: Bunnaloo Pastoral Co
  • QLD: Canning Downs South Trust Pty Ltd
  • VIC: Alloa Pastoral
  • SA: Thomas Foods International – Southern Cross Feedlot
  • WA: Stone Axe Pastoral Company

Most Outstanding MSA Non-Feedlot Band 1

  • NSW: Ardsley Pastoral
  • QLD: Hughes & Sons Pty Ltd
  • VIC: Woorabinda Farms
  • TAS: Ross & Mary Mace – Lawrenny Estate
  • SA: Thomas Foods International
  • WA: BL & SJ Nairn

Most Outstanding MSA Non-Feedlot Band 2

  • NSW: Barry Trethowan
  • QLD: G & M Gray Family Trust
  • VIC: GR Walsh
  • TAS: PN & DA Bonney
  • SA: Bralyn Nominees Pty Ltd
  • WA: Mirreanda Pty Ltd

Among the 2025 recipients, Thomas Foods International was recognised in South Australia in both the Most Outstanding MSA Feedlot and Most Outstanding MSA Non-Feedlot Band 1 categories.

TFI Chief Operating Officer Tom Davies said that the awards were a recognition of their drive to continuously improve the performance of their cattle and eating quality.

“It’s a great honour to receive these awards. They are a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering the highest eating quality for consumers and to the dedication of our entire team,” Mr Davies said.

“Working closely with MLA and embracing MSA has been central to our success, and we’re proud to be recognised alongside such exceptional producers from right around the country.”

Case studies of award winners across from across Australia: