An enterprise health check
20 May 2016
Gulf cattle producers can check the pulse of their business, access new technologies and get a handle on the latest industry research at a forum at Mt Surprise on 1-2 June.
The two-day BeefUp Showcase is the latest in a series held throughout northern Australia.
The BeefUp days are developed by Regional Beef Research Committee (RBRC) members in collaboration with MLA, to ensure topics are relevant to local producers. The Mt Surprise event will be also partner with the Northern Gulf Resource Management Group, Gulf Cattlemen’s Association and Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Producer feedback session
A new addition to the Mt Surprise program is a forum where producers can have their say about regional research and development (R&D) needs.
“The R&D priorities feedback session reflects MLA’s focus on grassroots consultation,” BeefUp coordinator Barb Bishop said.
“It is an opportunity for local producers to provide input into the direction of local and industry research.”
She said the inclusion of this feedback session at the recent BeefUp days in WA was successful, with producers contributing ideas ranging from fire management to technologies that meet the needs of northern producers.
This producer input will be used to set MLA’s research priorities, via the Northern Australia Beef Research Council (NABRC) – an independent organisation made up of producer representatives, research organisations and education providers.
R&D and markets update
As well as providing an update on the latest red meat industry R&D and adoption activities, the Mt Surprise event will include analysis of domestic and export market conditions.
Tools, products and technology showcase
The event has a strong focus on practical tips and tools. A tools, products and technology showcase will give producers a first-hand look at tools such as walk-over-weighing systems and the latest products, while the NRM spatial hub will provide information about property mapping.
Profit drivers forum
The event also provides a forum where producers can step away from their day-to-day management and take a critical look at their business.
Ian McLean, who delivers MLA’s BusinessEDGE program, will discuss key drivers for profitability in a cattle herd, and two local producers will share their experiences with balancing grass, cattle and finances in a northern enterprise.
Business planning session
Barb Bishop will guide producers through strategies to build successful multi-generational businesses – a concept she said relies on the family taking ownership of their business’s future before involving any external advisors.
“In my presentation, I’ll provide steps and strategies to having that first conversation about the business as a family; identifying the needs, ambitions and expectations of all family members (including son-in-laws and daughter-in-laws); and running a productive family business meeting," she said.
Event details
Day 1: Wednesday 1 June, 9.30am-5.30pm. Barbecue from 6.30pm with entertainment by Carter and Carter.
Day 2: Thursday, 2 June, 8am-1pm, followed by a property tour or Northern Gulf Resource Management Group meeting.
Cost: $20, includes morning and afternoon teas, lunch, barbecue dinner and property tour.
RSVP: Friday 27 May, register online.
