New Cattle Council CEO to speak at Robe livestock meeting
Livestock SA’s annual summer meeting has drawn another high-profile guest speaker this year, with Cattle Council of Australia CEO Margo Andrae confirmed to attend the forthcoming industry event at Robe on Friday, February 9.
This year’s event builds on the success of the two previous summer meetings at Robe, when Assistant Agriculture Minister and Senator for South Australia, Hon Anne Ruston, and National Farmers’ Federation CEO, Tony Mahar, both drew a large turn-out of South East producers.
Livestock SA’s Southern Region chairman Peter Stock said Ms Andrae’s visit to the region was important given the significance of the grassfed beef cattle industry in the South East.
“We’re excited by what Ms Andrae brings to this key leadership position, especially in terms her proven skills in communications and advocacy, because the need to strengthen our industry’s image is more important than ever,” Mr Stock said.
“We are looking forward to hearing from Ms Andrae on February 9 about how Cattle Council will continue to advocate on behalf of producers and help the sector capitalise on opportunities for greater productivity and profitability in the future.”
Ms Andrae, who was appointed as Cattle Council CEO in November after serving as acting CEO for a number of months, said she was looking forward to meeting with producers in the South East.
“As Cattle Council’s new CEO, my focus is on listening to producers to ensure there is effective representation from the ground up,” Ms Andrae said.
“This is vital because Cattle Council has a legislative role to oversee the expenditure of the Grassfed Cattle Levy and that’s why we’re always working to ensure this expenditure supports the industry through innovation, research and development.
“With this in mind, 2018 will see an increase in engagement and decision-making based on widespread consultation.”
Ms Andrae has previously worked with CSIRO, the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation, local government and was also heavily involved in the National Vocational Education reform process on behalf of the food and agribusiness sector.
The February 9 meeting will be held at the Robe Bowling Club, from 6.30pm. Attendance for Livestock SA members and producers is free, with a complimentary barbeque tea to be served and drinks available for purchase at the bar.
Members and other interested industry stakeholders can confirm their attendance by contacting Livestock SA’s Southern Region Secretary, Tom Dawkins, on 0402 406 965 or tom@dawkinsforthestate.com.au