WIDESPREAD rain across North Queensland has reinvigorated the region's cattle producers with a new sense of optimism and a desire to set the industry on the path to meet its full potential, industry body AgForce claims.
AgForce will host a forum in Charters Towers next month to discuss how to build a strong and profitable future for the north's beef industry.
Producers are being urged to attend the Advancing Beef Forum, which is being sponsored by MLA.
Organisers say the event will be important in setting the national agenda moving forward.
AgForce's North Queensland regional president Matt Bennetto said the forum would discuss a range of issues central to the northern industry's development including profitability, sustainability, regenerative practices, and supply chain issues.
"The northern herd is starting to rebuild after the devastating floods last year and, with pastures in many regions now recovering after several years of dry, this is the right time to plan for the future," Mr Bennetto of Virginia Park Station, said.
"The beef industry up here has some significant opportunities and competitive advantages over producers elsewhere in Australia, but we also have our own unique challenges."
He said the forum would feature a line-up of experienced and respected players from across the beef supply chain.
They include MLA's Mick Crowley, who will talk about increasing value across the supply chain.
Michele Lally will draw on her experience with boutique supplier Australian Micro Abattoir when discussing the importance of reducing the gap between producers and consumers.
"With more consumers demanding ethically produced red meat, sustainability and animal welfare will be a focus of discussions," Mr Benetto said.
"NQ cattle legend Peter Hall will discuss animal pain relief from a producer's perspective, while Sam Skeet from NQDT Grazing will lead local producers in a discussion about the emerging concept of regenerative agriculture."
He said AgForce Partners FTI Consulting and Acumentis would lead sessions on improving farm viability and rural property valuation trends.
Mr Bennetto said a networking function the evening prior to the forum would provide an opportunity for producers to share ideas and build connections throughout the industry.
"I hope the social element, as well as the best practice focus, will encourage producers who have not been to an AgForce event - especially the next generation of graziers - to get involved in their industry's success," Mr Bennetto said.
The forum will be held at the Charters Towers Golf Club on Friday, March 6 from 8.30am with a meet and greet the previous evening at the same location from 5pm.
Those interested in attending should RSVP via the AgForce website by Friday, February 28 to secure a place.
