2026 National Conference

2026 ICMJ National Conference

Inspiring and developing future professionals in the global red meat industry

June 30, 2026

Wagga Wagga, NSW

Details Program Speakers Committee Sponsors Gallery Careers Expo

Welcome to the 2026 National ICMJ Conference

Join us for a multi-day program of learning, networking, and professional development across the red meat and livestock industry.

On behalf of the 2026 ICMJ Committee, I would like to welcome each of you to the 2026 Australian ICMJ conference, workshop and competition. This year marks the 36th anniversary since the establishment of the Australian ICMJ program in 1990. We welcome students and coaches from Australian, USA and Japanese tertiary institutions. This year’s program will:

Showcase Diversity

Showcase the amazing career pathways available in the red meat industry.

Professional Development

Provide personal and professional development opportunities.

Build Links

Encourage you to build links with industry companies.

Establish Networks

With friends and future colleagues from across Australia and the world.

This conference would not be possible without the generous support from all our partners, helpers and the tireless work and enthusiasm for the program from the current committee Macky Lawrence, Stuart Bisley, Gabi Ryan, Molly Greentree, Claire Marriott, Nick van den Berg, Melanie Smith, Jake Bourlet, James Carter, Laura Bignell, Aimee Bolton, Lauren Smith, Kieran Smith, bookkeeper – Ellie Hays, ICMJ media co-ordinator Megan Hendry plus ICMJ co-ordinator Maria Thompson and Annie Pumpa. The ICMJ committee would also like to thank founding partners AMPC and MLA, Charles Sturt University and Teys for hosting the ICMJ conference in Wagga and all industry sponsors for supporting the event. We are excited to see the ICMJ program go from strength to strength on an annual basis.

“Inspiring and developing future professionals in the global red meat industry”

Dr Peter McGilchrist,
Australian ICMJ President

Map of CSU Wagga Campus

Conference Program

June 30, 2026

Time Session Location Speakers
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

93 Hammond Ave, Wagga Wagga

Australian Teams

Check in BIG4 Ingenia Holiday Park

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Stewards Hall Cnr. Bribbaree Place & Valder Way, Charles Sturt University

International Teams

Check in Charles Sturt University Residences, Stewards Hall

5:30 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

Registration Opens at Wagga RSL

5:50 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

Welcome & Introduction

  • ICMJ Committee

5:50 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

2026 ICMJ National Conference

Welcome drinks

Cattle Australia
6:00 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

2026 Teys ICMJ Welcome Dinner

Teys
8:00 PM

Meat Industry Trivia

July 1, 2026

Time Session Location Speakers
8:00 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

Welcome & Acknowledgment of Country

  • Peter McGilchrist

    Peter McGilchrist

    National ICMJ President

8:05 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

Building a Global Sheepmeat Enterprise

The Fletcher Family Legacy in Lamb & Mutton

  • Melissa Fletcher

    Melissa Fletcher

    CEO Fletcher International Exports

8:45 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

Looking Ahead

Market Trends Shaping the Future of Beef, Sheep and Goat

  • Ripley Atkinson

    Ripley Atkinson

    StoneX Australian Meats & Livestock Manager

9:25 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

From Carcase to Consumer

The Science Behind Eating Quality

  • Ben Holman

    Ben Holman

    Meat Scientist Charles Sturt University

10:05 AM – 10:40 AM

Crowbar, Building 20, CSU

Morning Tea

Sponsored by AUS-MEAT (Associate Partner)

Aus-Meat
10:40 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

Behind the Hide and Under the Skin

The power of genetics

  • Clara Bradford

    Clara Bradford

    Meat and Livestock Australia

11:20 AM

Success Across the Supply Chain

Connecting consumer expectations to carcase outcomes

  • Stuart Bisley

    Stuart Bisley

    Livestock Buyer, Teys

12:00 PM

Meat Tomorrow

Innovations and Predictions Q&A Panel

1:00 PM

Marquee on lawn area at Building 400, Food Pilot Plant

Lunch

Sponsored by Fletcher International (Supporting Partner)

Fletcher International Exports
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Workshop Rotations

Students split into groups A, B or C as allocated on name tags for workshops. 55-minute sessions + 5 mins for transit between rotations

A AMIC Smallgoods Masterclass

Sponsor address from Oliver Stankovski from AMIC

Building 400, Food Technologies Laboratory, Room 116
  • Luke Leyson

    Luke Leyson

    Schlenk Smallgoods

B Teys Carcase Utilisation

Adding Value Through Smart Beef Utilisation

Building 400, Food Technologies Laboratory, Room 102
  • Brett Laws

    Brett Laws

    Butcher Lawsy

C Meat Packaging & Freshness

Explore how packaging plays a key role in protecting meat quality, preserving freshness, and supporting better product outcomes.

LLS Building 412
  • Ben Holman

    Ben Holman

    Meat Scientist Charles Sturt University

5:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Pre-dinner Drinks

Sponsored by WagStaff

WagStaff
6:30 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

Dinner

Sponsored by NH Foods (Major Partner)

NH Foods
8:00 PM

Coaches/team leader meeting

Global AgriTrends

Feedback

Please scan the QR code or click the link to complete your feedback responses for Wednesday’s activities

Provide your feedback Survey QR code

July 2, 2026

Time Session Location Speakers
6:50 AM

Marquee on lawn area at Building 400, Food Technologies Laboratory

Breakfast

Sponsored by Bindaree Food Group

Bindaree Food Group
7:45 AM

Building 400, CSU

Break Into Judging Groups

8:00 AM – 9:45 AM

Building 400, Food Technologies Laboratory, Rooms 102 & 116

Student competition groups A–E: Small stock competition – Rotation 1

8:00 AM – 10:05 AM

LLS Building 412

Student competition groups F–J (plus Coaches): International presentations

Dr Mark Miller — From Burgers to Global Growth: Why the US Relies on Australian Beef, Lamb & Goat? Tatsuki Kamata — From Vision to Value: An overview of the Japanese Beef industry Kieran Smith & Lauren Smith, Tour Leads — Alumni in Action: Future Leaders Exploring Global Markets on the ICMJ South East Asia 2026 Tour Brett Laws & Luke Leyson — Where Craft Meets Competition: Australia’s Finest on the Global Stage at World Butchers’ Challenge (30 mins each)

9:45 AM – 10:05 AM

Marquee on lawn area at Building 400, Food Pilot Plant

Student competition groups A–E: Morning tea

Sponsored by Australian Country Choice (Supporting Partner)

Australian Country Choice
10:10 AM – 10:30 AM

Marquee on lawn area at Building 400, Food Pilot Plant

Student competition groups F–J (plus Coaches): Morning tea

Sponsored by Australian Country Choice (Supporting Partner)

Australian Country Choice
10:30 AM

Marquee on lawn area at Building 400

ICMJ Media call

  • Megan Hendry

    Megan Hendry

    ICMJ Media Coordinator

10:40 AM – 12:25 PM

Building 400, Food Technologies Laboratory, Rooms 102 & 116

Student competition groups F–J: Small stock competition – Rotation 2

10:10 AM – 12:15 PM

LLS Building 412

Student competition groups A–E: International presentations

Dr Mark Miller — From Burgers to Global Growth: Why the US Relies on Australian Beef, Lamb & Goat? Tatsuki Kamata — From Vision to Value: An overview of the Japanese Beef industry Kieran Smith & Lauren Smith, Tour Leads — Alumni in Action: Future Leaders Exploring Global Markets on the ICMJ South East Asia 2026 Tour Brett Laws & Luke Leyson — Where Craft Meets Competition: Australia’s Finest on the Global Stage at World Butchers’ Challenge (30 mins each)

10:45 AM – 12:30 PM

Wal Fife

Coaches Only – Level up your leadership

Effective leadership styles

12:30 PM

Marquee on Lawn area at Building 400, Food Technologies Laboratory

Lunch

Sponsored by Australian Meat Group (Supporting Partner)

AMG
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

High Performance Habits & Performing under pressure

Students and Coaches

Greenham
2:35 PM – 3:30 PM

Rotation 1

A Preparing for the Workplace

Group A. Sponsored by Rimfire Resources

Building 14, Room 209

David Jackson, Rimfire Resources

B LIVIN

Group B. Sponsored by Stockyard

Building 14, Room 212

Jodi Brown

10 min break between rotations

3:40 PM – 4:35 PM

Rotation 2

A LIVIN

Group A. Sponsored by Stockyard

Building 14, Room 212

Jodi Brown

B Preparing for the Workplace

Group B. Sponsored by Rimfire Resources

Building 14, Room 209

David Jackson, Rimfire Resources

5:30 PM

The Range Function Centre 308 Copland St, East Wagga Wagga

2026 ICMJ Careers & Industry Expo

Sponsored by Rimfire Resources

Rimfire Resources
5:30 PM

The Range Function Centre 308 Copland St, East Wagga Wagga

Sundowner Drinks

Sponsored by Australian Poll Dorset Association. Professional photography booth: Complimentary professional headshots for each attendee.

Poll Dorset Lamb Supreme
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The Range Function Centre 308 Copland St, East Wagga Wagga

Pork Canape Dinner

Sponsored by Australian Pork Limited (Principal Partner)

Australian Pork

Feedback

Please scan the QR code or click the link to complete your feedback responses for Thursday’s activities

Provide your feedback Survey QR code

July 3, 2026

Time Session Location Speakers
8:00 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

More Than Meat

Food Science, 5th-Quarter Innovation and the Future of Red Meat

  • Michael Lee

    Michael Lee

    Group Manager – Value Chain Innovation within MLA's Research, Development & Adoption unit

8:40 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

Flavour Is the New Frontier

What meat science Is revealing across beef, lamb and pork

  • Robyn Warner

    Robyn Warner

    Professor, University of Melbourne

9:20 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

The Last Supper

Addressing the Need for Repro and Farm Management to Meet Global Sheepmeat Demand

  • Jason Trompf

    Jason Trompf

    Lambs Alive

10:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Crowbar Building 20, CSU

Morning Tea

Sponsored by Harvest Road (Associate Partner)

Harvest Road
10:30 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

From Paddock to Plate

Building a Premium Pork Brand

  • Linton Batt

    Linton Batt

    Managing Director of Food Security International and National Feed Co

11:10 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

Unlocking the Potential of Goatmeat

What meat science and genetics are revealing

  • Peter McGilchrist

    Peter McGilchrist

    National ICMJ President

11:50 AM

Building 14, Wal Fife, CSU

Carving Out Your Career

Q&A panel discussion

1:00 PM

Marquee on lawn area at Building 400, Food Technologies Laboratory

Lunch

Sponsored by Australian Pork Limited (Principal Partner)

Australian Pork
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Workshop rotations

Coach free time. Students split into groups 1–4 as allocated on name tags. 40-minute sessions + 20-minute transfer between rotations. Groups transfer across campus at 3:20 PM — you will need to drive, please carpool.

1 Gundagai Lamb: Lamb Carcase Optimisation

Group 1 (2.00-2.40pm)
Group 2 (2.40-3.20pm)

Break while groups transfer across campus (20mins)

Group 3 (3.40-4.20pm)
Group 4 (4.20-5.00pm)

Building 400, Food Tech Lab Room 116
  • Brett Laws

    Brett Laws

    Butcher Lawsy

2 SunPork: Pork Carcase Utilisation

Group 2 (2.00-2.40pm)
Group 1 (2.40-3.20pm)

Break while groups transfer across campus(20mins)

Group 4 (3.40-4.20pm)
Group 3 (4.20-5.00pm)

Building 400, Food Tech Lab Room 102
  • Luke Leyson

    Luke Leyson

    Schlenk Smallgoods

3 Live Animal – Prime lamb production and ASBV

Group 3 (2.00-2.40pm)
Group 4 (2.40-3.20pm)

Break while groups transfer across campus(20mins)

Group 1 (3.40-4.20pm)
Group 2 (4.20-5.00pm)

Sheep yards Building 108, Agriculture Avenue

Isabele Roberts, Ridgehaven Poll Dorsets

4 A & B Sheep Skins

Group 4 (2.00-2.40pm)
Group 3 (2.40-3.20pm)

Break while groups transfer across campus(20mins)

Group 2 (3.40-4.20pm)
Group 1 (4.20-5.00pm)

Sheep yards Building 109, Agriculture Avenue

Jake Bourlet, Nick Van den Berg, Claire Marriott

6:30 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

Dinner

Sponsored by JBS (Major Partner)

JBS
7:30 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

2026 Australian Team Presentation

Survey Link https://domain.com/path/to/survey/link

Global AgriTrends

Feedback

Please scan the QR code or click the link to complete your feedback responses for Friday’s activities

Survey QR code

July 4, 2026

Time Session Location Speakers
7:00 AM

1 Dampier Street, Bowman NSW

Arrive at Teys Australia

Entry for the contest will be via the main employee carpark off Dampier St and sign in through main gatehouse (Check requirements with your coaches)

8:00 AM

Teys Australia

Meat Judging Competition

Teys ICMJ 2026 National Meat Judging Competition – Beef

12:00 PM

Teys Australia Canteen

Lunch

Sponsored by Teys Australia (Principal Partner)

Teys
1:30 PM

Student & Coach Free Time

2:00 PM

RSL Hotel Apartment 1

Interviews

Interviews conducted with selected Australian students for the ICMJ Industry Development Tour

5:30 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

Sundowner Drinks

Sponsored by Meat Business Women

Meat Business Women
6:00 PM

Wagga RSL Corner Kincaid & Dobbs Street

Australian ICMJ 2026 Awards Gala Dinner

Sponsored by TFI (Principal Partner) Dress code: Cocktail, coat and tie. Survey Link https://domain.com/path/to/survey/link

Thomas Foods International

Feedback

Please scan the QR code or click the link to complete your feedback responses for Saturday’s activities

Provide your feedback Survey QR code

July 5, 2026

Time Session Location Speakers
10:00 AM

Check out

Student and coach check out of accommodation

Our Sponsors

  • The Art of Australian Beef
  • Agri Labour
  • Allflex Livestock Intelligence
  • AMPC
  • AMG
  • Aus-Meat
  • Australian Country Choice
  • Australian Pork
  • Beef Central
  • Bindaree Food Group
  • Cattle Australia
  • Charles Sturt University
  • Fletcher International Exports
  • Global AgriTrends
  • Greenham
  • Gundagai Lamb
  • Harvest Road
  • Meat Business Women
  • MLA
  • NH Foods
  • Poll Dorset Lamb Supreme
  • Rimfire Resources
  • Stockyard
  • SunPork Group
  • Teys
  • The Art of Australian Beef
  • Thomas Foods International
  • WagStaff
  • The Art of Australian Beef
  • Agri Labour
  • Allflex Livestock Intelligence
  • AMPC
  • AMG
  • Aus-Meat
  • Australian Country Choice
  • Australian Pork
  • Beef Central
  • Bindaree Food Group
  • Cattle Australia
  • Charles Sturt University
  • Fletcher International Exports
  • Global AgriTrends
  • Greenham
  • Gundagai Lamb
  • Harvest Road
  • Meat Business Women
  • MLA
  • NH Foods
  • Poll Dorset Lamb Supreme
  • Rimfire Resources
  • Stockyard
  • SunPork Group
  • Teys
  • The Art of Australian Beef
  • Thomas Foods International
  • WagStaff

Conference Speakers

Meet our industry experts and thought leaders

Peter McGilchrist

Peter McGilchrist

National ICMJ President

Peter McGilchrist

Peter McGilchrist

National ICMJ President

Peter is a Professor of Meat Science at the University of New England (UNE). He grew up on a cattle property in northern NSW and has a Bachelor of Rural Science (Hons1) from the UNE. Peter was a member of the UNE meat judging team in 2002 and was on the 2003 Australian ICMJ team that competed in the USA. Following university Peter travelled the globe and worked at Elders Killara feedlot for a year before moving to Perth to complete a PhD at Murdoch University on ‘Selection for muscling affects carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism in beef cattle’ with the Beef CRC. Peter then held a postdoctoral research and lecturing positions at Murdoch University with Meat & Livestock Australia working on beef eating quality projects, MSA optimisation and the development of the MSA Index. Peter’s research focuses on factors along the supply chain which impact the eating quality of beef and lamb from conception to consumption. Peter is passionate about the future of the red meat industry for the next generation.

Melissa Fletcher

Melissa Fletcher

CEO Fletcher International Exports

Melissa Fletcher

Melissa Fletcher

CEO Fletcher International Exports

Melissa Fletcher is the CEO of Fletcher International Exports Pty. Ltd. – a private 100% Australian family-owned and operated agribusiness, employing over 1200 people in regional Australia.

Fletcher International Exports is one of Australia’s largest sheep and lamb meat exporters with two major export processing facilities with the capacity to process of over four million head per year situated in Dubbo NSW and Narrikup WA.

Fletcher International Exports is also Australia’s largest raw wool harvester and has large interests in farms for cotton, wool, grain, pulse production, lamb/ sheep breeding, and lamb feeding operations. Fletcher International Exports has a logistics business, Fletchers Big Boomerang Logistics with four locomotives that operate three services per week between Dubbo and Port Botany and exports to 90 countries.

Melissa is the chair of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and a graduate of their flagship course, the Australian Rural Leadership Program. She is also the chair of the Australian Meat Processor Corporation.

Ripley Atkinson

Ripley Atkinson

StoneX Australian Meats & Livestock Manager

Ripley Atkinson

Ripley Atkinson

StoneX Australian Meats & Livestock Manager

Ripley Atkinson is an experienced agribusiness professional, specialising in the red meat and livestock sector. Ripley’s hands-on experience working across cattle and sheep operations nationwide gives him a unique, ground-level perspective on the dynamics of the Australian livestock market. Ripley, through his role at StoneX, is leading the development of risk management and hedging tools for Australia’s livestock industry to utilise and manage price and market risk. As Australian Meats & Livestock Manager, Ripley works with clients across the country in both lamb and cattle supply chains, helping them manage price volatility and market risk through practical, forward-looking solutions.

Ben Holman

Ben Holman

Meat Scientist Charles Sturt University

Ben Holman

Ben Holman

Meat Scientist Charles Sturt University

Assoc. Prof. Benjamin Holman is a Meat Scientist at the Gulbali Institute of Charles Sturt University. Before this, he was a Senior Research Scientist at the NSW Department of Primary Industries (2014-25). Benjamin’s study of meat production, processing, and preservation has been impactful, benefitting stakeholders across the meat supply chain. His scientific leadership has resulted in his receipt of several prestigious awards, editorial board appointments, and invited contributions. Benjamin lectures and aims to share his enthusiasm for meat quality, its nutritional enhancement and sustainable production.

Clara Bradford

Clara Bradford

Meat and Livestock Australia

Clara Bradford

Clara Bradford

Meat and Livestock Australia

Clara completed a Bachelor of Animal Science at the University of New England including an honours project investigating treatment alternatives for nitrite poisoning in sheep. During university, she gained experience in many industries, working on orchards, feedlots, sheep, cattle and cropping properties. Clara was also selected as a member of the 2014 Australian National Meat judging team, travelling to the USA to compete and experience a unique industry tour. Prior to university, Clara worked on an AACO station in the NT for 12months. Clara briefly worked in the feedlot industry with Teys before starting with MLA in 2016 as the LAMBPLAN development Officer. Continuing her passion for genetics Clara worked as National Adoption Manager Genetics, the project manager for Genetics R&D until recently moving into the Program Manager for livestock genetics R&D.

Luke Leyson

Luke Leyson

Schlenk Smallgoods

Luke Leyson

Luke Leyson

Schlenk Smallgoods

Luke Leyson is an accomplished Australian butcher and respected leader in the craft. He began his journey in the industry as a humble clean up kid, starting his apprenticeship at 17, and has spent years mastering the precision, creativity and skill that butchery demands. Luke has proudly represented Australia on the international stage at the prestigious World Butchers’ Challenge. He first competed in Ireland in 2018, where the team finished third overall in a field of 12 nations — bringing home the bronze medal against global competition. Since then, Luke’s competitive career has continued to flourish. As Captain of the Australian team, he led the Australian Butcher Team to a silver medal finish at the 2022 World Butchers’ Challenge in Sacramento and a bronze medal in Paris in 2025, helping secure Australia’s place among the world’s elite butchers. Today, Luke remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of the trade and inspiring the next generation of butchers with passion and excellence.

Brett Laws

Brett Laws

Butcher Lawsy

Brett Laws

Brett Laws

Butcher Lawsy

Brett Laws, known as Butcher Lawsy on social media, is one of Australia’s leading competitive butchers. Following in the footsteps of his father and brother, Brett has built a standout career in butchery, representing Australia at the World Butchers’ Challenge (WBC) in Sacramento (2nd place) and Paris in 2026 (3rd place), where he was also named to the All-Star team.

He won the three-man Master Butcher competition in New Zealand (2022) and made history by claiming all three Butcher Wars titles at Meatstock in 2023, continuing his winning streak in Sydney in 2024. That same year, Brett became the first butcher to win the single-man World Butcher Wars event in Ascot. Brett is passionate about inspiring young people to explore the trade and its global opportunities.

Michael Lee

Michael Lee

Group Manager – Value Chain Innovation within MLA's Research, Development & Adoption unit

Michael Lee

Michael Lee

Group Manager – Value Chain Innovation within MLA's Research, Development & Adoption unit

Michael comes from a food and packaging technology background with 30 years’ experience across the meat supply chain in retail, operations and research. Prior to Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) he has worked for Woolworths Supermarkets, Hans Smallgoods, and JBS Australia in various commercial and technical roles. Michael holds Post-graduate and Bachelors degree in Applied Science along with Masters in Business Administration and was formally an adjunct Senior Research Fellow at University of Melbourne in their School of Agriculture and Food.

Michael is the Group Manager – Value Chain Innovation within MLA’s Research, Development & Adoption unit, leading the team which works across programs such as Objective Measurements & AgTech, Meat Science, Market Access Science, New Product & Packaging Innovation and Innovation Capability Building.

Robyn Warner

Robyn Warner

Professor, University of Melbourne

Robyn Warner

Robyn Warner

Professor, University of Melbourne

Professor Robyn Warner has over 35 years of experience in meat science research and education. She has been based at The University of Melbourne since 2014, following previous roles at CSIRO and the Victorian Department of Primary Industries. Prof. Warner holds a PhD in Food Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, a Master of Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne, and a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from La Trobe University. She has received national and international awards, including the 2000 International Meat Secretariat prize and Australian 2010 Eureka prize for MSA Pathways research, and the 2014 International Lectureship Award and 2025 Distinguished Research Award both from American Meat Science Association. In 2022, she was elected a Fellow of the Australian Association of Animal Sciences for her outstanding contributions to the animal industries. Her research focuses on the biochemistry, biology, and biophysics of muscle, with an emphasis on understanding meat quality for solutions to industry problems.

Jason Trompf

Jason Trompf

Lambs Alive

Jason Trompf

Jason Trompf

Lambs Alive

Jason Trompf from Lambs Alive has been working as Agricultural Consultant for over 25 years. Jason has a strong background in understanding the drivers and motivators of producers and designing programs that support and enable practice change. Jason undertook his PhD research into farmer behavioral change and adoptive context, identifying ways to increase engagement and impact. Programs that Jason has had significant input into the design, delivery and evaluation of include the Lifetime Ewe Management (LTEM) and Bred Well Fed Well (BWFW). Each of these programs have engaged over 5,000 producers and are widely recognized for the industry leading impact they have had on changing knowledge, attitude, skills and aspiration (KASA) and practice, as well as lifting productivity, profitability and resilience. Jason also founded the innovative Lambs Alive program that coaches many sheep business online. Jason also manages his family’s 2000 composite ewe and 200 Angus and Shorthorn cow enterprise. These self-replacing high productivity enterprises provide Jason with a strong practical background and a constant reality check of the challenges that producers face on a day-to-day basis.

Linton Batt

Linton Batt

Managing Director of Food Security International and National Feed Co

Linton Batt

Linton Batt

Managing Director of Food Security International and National Feed Co

Linton Batt is the Managing Director of Food Security International and National Feed Co (NFC). The group includes piggery, abattoir, 2 feed mills and cropping for hay and grain across WA and NT.

The piggery comprises commercial white pigs alongside the renowned Black Label Berkshire stud. The success of the pig business is from a combination of genetics, genomics, nutrition and ongoing internal research.

Linton has extensive experience feed-lotting cattle in WA/NT and manufactures custom rations for different cattle markets.

Jodi Brown

Jodi Brown

Facilitator

LIVIN

Jodi Brown

Jodi Brown

Facilitator

LIVIN

Jodi Brown is a Facilitator at LIVIN with over four years of experience delivering workshops and presentations that make mental health conversations real, relatable and practical. Drawing on his own lived experience, Jodi has a natural ability to connect with people and bring the human side of mental health to life, turning what can feel like a heavy topic into something accessible and actionable. Off the clock, you’ll find him pushing his limits through ultra marathons, recovering in ice baths and fuelling it all with strong coffee, not necessarily in that order.

National Committee

Peter McGilchrist

Peter McGilchrist

National ICMJ President

Peter McGilchrist

Peter McGilchrist

National ICMJ President

Peter is a Professor of Meat Science at the University of New England (UNE). He grew up on a cattle property in northern NSW and has a Bachelor of Rural Science (Hons1) from the UNE. Peter was a member of the UNE meat judging team in 2002 and was on the 2003 Australian ICMJ team that competed in the USA. Following university Peter travelled the globe and worked at Elders Killara feedlot for a year before moving to Perth to complete a PhD at Murdoch University on ‘Selection for muscling affects carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism in beef cattle’ with the Beef CRC. Peter then held a postdoctoral research and lecturing positions at Murdoch University with Meat & Livestock Australia working on beef eating quality projects, MSA optimisation and the development of the MSA Index. Peter’s research focuses on factors along the supply chain which impact the eating quality of beef and lamb from conception to consumption. Peter is passionate about the future of the red meat industry for the next generation.

Macky Lawrence

Macky Lawrence

National ICMJ Vice-President & Australian Team Coach

Macky Lawrence

Macky Lawrence

National ICMJ Vice-President & Australian Team Coach

Macky grew up on a beef cattle property on the mid north coast and has always had a strong passion for Australian agriculture. He studied at Charles Sturt University graduating with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science in 2018. He competed at the national conference in 2016 and was fortunate enough to be part of the 2017 Australian national team. Following university, Macky has worked as part of the growth farms team managing a property in the Mitta Valley, spent 3 years in the feedlot industry at Whyalla Beef in Queensland, which has led him into his current role, moving back to the mid north coast as a livestock co-ordinator for NH Foods at Wingham Beef Exports.

Gabrielle Ryan

Gabrielle Ryan

National ICMJ Secretary

Gabrielle Ryan

Gabrielle Ryan

National ICMJ Secretary

Gabi grew up on a mixed farming property in Central West NSW. She completed a Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience in 2016, during which she competed in ICMJ for the University of Sydney. Following this Gabi travelled to the states with the national team in 2017. Upon returning she commenced an Agribusiness Cadetship at Fletcher International Exports before moving into her current role as the group’s North American Market Manager.

Stuart Bisley

Stuart Bisley

Livestock Buyer, Teys

Stuart Bisley

Stuart Bisley

Livestock Buyer, Teys

Stuart grew up on a cattle property in Queensland and completed a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Queensland. After finishing his degree, he spent several years working on cattle stations across the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Stuart then relocated to Dalby QLD, where he took on a management role in a lot feeding and mixed cropping operation. In 2019, Stuart joined Teys Australia as a Commercial Analyst, later transitioning into the Operations team. He is now based in Wagga Wagga, working as a Livestock Buyer. Stuart is passionate about engaging and inspiring the future workforce of the red meat industry.

Molly Greentree

Molly Greentree

ICMJ Sponsorship Coordinator

Molly Greentree

Molly Greentree

ICMJ Sponsorship Coordinator

Molly is the Account Manager at Gundagai Lamb, where she is involved in all things sales and marketing, focussing particularly on the premium GLQ5+ brand. She holds a Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience with Honours in Animal Reproduction from the University of Sydney. Growing up in Sydney, her journey into the red meat industry began with the Sydney University ICMJ team, which opened the door to a graduate program with Teys Australia working across Operations, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control in Wagga Wagga, before relocating to Brisbane to work in Production Scheduling and later as a Commercial Analyst. In early 2024, she joined Gundagai Lamb and has since also joined the Sheep Sustainability Framework Steering Group. Molly is passionate about encouraging young people to get involved in agriculture, even if not originally off a property.

Claire Marriott

Claire Marriott

ICMJ National Conference Careers Expo Coordinator

Claire Marriott

Claire Marriott

ICMJ National Conference Careers Expo Coordinator

Claire studied a Bachelor of Rural Science at the University of New England (UNE) and completed her Honours in Meat Science during her final year. Claire was a member of the UNE meat judging team in 2019 and was fortunate to be selected on the Australian national ICMJ team in 2020. Following university, Claire was an AACo graduate before commencing a role as Supply Chain Coordinator at Gundagai Lamb where she coordinates the producer engagement program for the brand. Claire is also actively involved in her family’s beef and sheep enterprise in north east Victoria.

Nick Vandenberg

Nick Vandenberg

ICMJ Alumni and Schools Coordinator

Nick Vandenberg

Nick Vandenberg

ICMJ Alumni and Schools Coordinator

Despite not growing up with a farming background, Nick quickly developed a love for all things agriculture. This led him to complete his Bachelor of Ag. Science at Adelaide University in 2013. It was during his studies he discovered meat judging and was fortunate to be a part of the 2014 ICMJ national team. Nick went on to do his honors in “Understanding the causes of dark cutting on pasture-raised beef in southeast South Australia” also allowing Nick to coach Adelaide Uni for three years before going on to be one of the ICMJ’s National team coaches for a number of years. Nick has been fortunate to see a large cross-section of industry, working from abattoirs and live export depots to full-time shearing. Nick is proud to have been a part of the founding team at MEQ Probe developing Agtech for chain speed eating quality assessment, before moving back home to SE SA where he now works as an independent Livestock agent with Platinum Livestock. He is very passionate about the Australian goat industry sitting on the Goat Industry Council of Australia and running his seed stock operation.

Melanie Smith

Melanie Smith

ICMJ National Conference Speaker Coordinator

Melanie Smith

Melanie Smith

ICMJ National Conference Speaker Coordinator

Melanie enjoys being part of a dynamic industry and promoting the opportunities available across the red meat supply chain. She holds a Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience (Hons), and PhD in Livestock Production and Meat Science from The University of Sydney. Currently, Melanie works with Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), as the Program Manager for Sheep and Goat Productivity. Melanie has strong ties to ICMJ and has been involved at multiple levels since she participated in 2012, going on to successfully coach over 100 students through the program, assist with ICMJ schools competitions throughout NSW and coaching the Australian National ICMJ Team. Melanie enjoys being part of the ICMJ committee, where she can continue to showcase the vast array of opportunities available for enthusiastic talent within the red meat industry.

Jake Bourlet

Jake Bourlet

ICMJ National Conference Venue and Product Coordinator

Jake Bourlet

Jake Bourlet

ICMJ National Conference Venue and Product Coordinator

Jake Bourlet grew up on a mixed farming enterprise in the Riverina. Jake’s passion for agriculture was developed whilst working for his family’s livestock contracting business at Teys Jindalee Feedlot and Wagga Saleyards. Jake studied a Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management at Charles Sturt University (CSU) and completed an Honours project to investigate the optimum time on feed to recondition cull beef cows. He competed in ICMJ in 2017 and was fortunate enough to be a part of the 2018 Australian national team, going on to coach the CSU ICMJ team in 2018 and 2019. Following university, Jake headed north as an AACo graduate before returning south to a role at Gundagai Lamb (GL) as Supply Chain Coordinator – this involves coordinating the buy, make and sell steps for trade activities associated with GL.

Laura Bignell

Laura Bignell

ICMJ Northern Conference Co-chair

Laura Bignell

Laura Bignell

ICMJ Northern Conference Co-chair

Laura’s grew up on on her family’s beef cattle property in Gloucester, NSW. After earning a Bachelor of Agriculture from UNE in 2019 and attending the Northern ICMJ Conference, she began her career with Teys Australia Biloela in Project and Sustainability management roles. Laura recently graduated an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering from CQU and in early 2026 she transitioned to Teys Australia Wagga Wagga as the Maintenance Supervisor. Laura is passionate about supporting rural communities, she is committed to creating opportunities for young people in agriculture and ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.

James Carter

James Carter

ICMJ Northern Conference Co-chair

James Carter

James Carter

ICMJ Northern Conference Co-chair

James grew up on his family’s beef cattle property near Crookwell, NSW, where they run a Normande/Charolais AI program pioneered by his grandfather. He is the 7th generation at Lake Edward, home to Australia’s oldest registered fire brand. After completing a carpentry apprenticeship and studying business, James re-entered agriculture with EC Rural in sales and production. He then joined AACo as a Livestock and Production Officer, advancing to Processing Manager. He now oversees service kills at JBS Beef City and Australian Country Choice, managing over 1,000 Wagyu weekly and ensuring quality, efficiency, and global delivery of premium branded beef.

Aimee Bolton

Aimee Bolton

ICMJ Australian Team Coach

Aimee Bolton

Aimee Bolton

ICMJ Australian Team Coach

Aimee is originally from Shepparton, Victoria, where her family run a small herd of Black and Red Angus cattle. Aimee completed her Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management at Charles Sturt University where she also took part in the 2019 ICMJ Conference. During her time at university, she was fortunate enough to travel and learn about the beef supply chain in several countries, including completing an exchange at Texas A & M focussing on meat science. Upon graduating Aimee joined the processing industry, gaining experience from an operational level with a strong emphasis on MSA grading, right through to livestock procurement and supply chain optimisation. Aimee is currently the Farm Assurance & Supply Chain Manager for JBS, with a focus on identifying new opportunities for the beef and lamb programs across compliance, performance, and sustainability. Growing up in the industry, Aimee is very passionate about fostering the next generation of industry enthusiasts.

Lauren Smith

Lauren Smith

ICMJ Website & Comms Coordinator, Global Markets Tour Co-Coordinator

Lauren Smith

Lauren Smith

ICMJ Website & Comms Coordinator, Global Markets Tour Co-Coordinator

Lauren completed a Bachelor of Science (Animal Science & Animal Health) and First Class Honours (Meat Science Technology) at Murdoch University. During her studies Lauren worked alongside the Murdoch meat science research team, where she was first introduced to ICMJ. She competed with the Murdoch meat judging team in 2018, after which she was selected to be a member of the Australian National team, competing in the USA in 2019 and returning to coach the Murdoch 2019 team. After graduating Lauren took a role at Western Australia’s largest beef processor, within the technical department, overseeing quality assurance and compliance across the plant. Lauren now works as a Project Officer in Sustainability with Australian Meat Processing Corporation (AMPC), the research and development organisation for Australian red meat processors.

Kieran Smith

Kieran Smith

ICMJ Global Markets Tour Coordinator

Kieran Smith

Kieran Smith

ICMJ Global Markets Tour Coordinator

Kieran grew up on a family sheep and cattle property near Inverell, NSW and is still actively involved in this business. In 2019 whilst finishing studying a Bachelor of Rural Science at UNE, he competed in the ICMJ Wagga competition and was fortunate to be selected as part of the Australian national ICMJ team in 2020. Kieran worked as in livestock extension and advisory roles across north Queensland and western NSW for 5 years. He has also worked in stud and commercial sheep and cattle businesses across NSW, QLD and the NT. Kieran is currently working as a Sheep Technology and Production Advisor with For Flocks Sake, a vet-based consulting business in Dubbo, NSW. He is passionate about assisting livestock producers in developing production systems that are consumer-focused.

Maria Thompson

Maria Thompson

ICMJ National Coordinator

Maria Thompson

Maria Thompson

ICMJ National Coordinator

Maria founded AgSTAR Projects, a consultancy company delivering projects across strategic planning, facilitation, policy review, evaluation and stakeholder consultation. She has extensive experience facilitating leadership and professional development programs for emerging and established leaders across Australian agriculture and works extensively in extension and adoption, building advisor and producer knowledge, confidence and practice change. Maria has been the Australian ICMJ National Coordinator for more than a decade. She holds a Bachelor of Rural Science (Hons I) and a Master of Agriculture and, in 2002, was a member of the UNE Meat Judging Team. Previous roles include managing the animal health, welfare and biosecurity portfolio for the national sheepmeat industry, working for a private agricultural PR and marketing company and working in beef genetics. Maria, her husband, Callen and their two sons own and operate a beef cattle property near Coonabarabran.

Megan Hendry

Megan Hendry

ICMJ Media Coordinator

Megan Hendry

Megan Hendry

ICMJ Media Coordinator

Megan Hendry is an experienced professional communicator who began her career as a journalist. She spent 12 years at the ABC, working across a range of different roles and platforms including radio, television, online and social media. Her work featured in programs like ABC News, 7.30 QLD, Landline, the Country Hour, The World Today, AM, PM and regular ABC local radio news bulletins. Megan transitioned into communications and public relations in 2021 when she took up a role with CQUniversity’s agriculture research teams. Since then, Megan has worked in corporate communications roles and as a senior executive officer. She also owns and operates True Story Communications. Megan has been involved with ICMJ for five years and continues to be based in Rockhampton, QLD.

Ellie Hays

Ellie Hays

ICMJ Bookkeeper & Australian Team Coach

Ellie Hays

Ellie Hays

ICMJ Bookkeeper & Australian Team Coach

Ellie Hays was born and bred in Queensland and ventured to Kununurra after school to work on a cattle station followed by contract mustering around the gulf of Queensland. Ellie’s passion for the agricultural industry continued to grow after being involved in her family cattle business and working on various properties. She completed a Bachelor of Agribusiness at Marcus Oldham and has been heavily involved with breeding livestock and the seed stock sector. She has previously worked at Holbrook Vet Centre overseeing the artificial breeding donor centre and worked at Rennylea Angus. Ellie spends her time working as an ag consultant with Agrista and is responsible for the benchmarking database. Ellie has been working with ICMJ as the bookkeeper since 2021 and assisted with the Australian Coach role in 2024.

Annie Pumpa

Annie Pumpa

ICMJ Program Support

Annie Pumpa

Annie Pumpa

ICMJ Program Support

Annie Pumpa brings more than 15 years of experience across the Australian beef industry, spanning project delivery, livestock marketing, stakeholder engagement, youth development and seedstock operations. She has built strong connections throughout the red meat supply chain and is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for young people in agriculture. Annie has worked closely with producers, breed societies and agricultural organisations across Australia in both the seedstock and commercial beef sectors. Her industry leadership includes serving as a Board Director of Herefords Australia from 2022–2025 and Chairman of Angus Round Up from 2021–2024. Through her work with Agstar Projects and ongoing engagements across the industry, including the National All Breeds Junior Heifer Show, Annie supports national agricultural programs and seedstock enterprises. Alongside her industry roles, Annie and her partner Grant own and operate GB Livestock, a Purebred Black Simmental Beef enterprise. Having been a keynote speaker at the 2024 ICMJ Northern Conference in Rockhampton, Annie is excited to continue supporting ICMJ’s mission of inspiring and developing the next generation of professionals and leaders in the global red meat industry.

Our Sponsors

Thank you to our valued industry partners

The Art of Australian Beef
Agri Labour
Allflex Livestock Intelligence
AMPC
AMG
Aus-Meat
Australian Country Choice
Australian Pork
Beef Central
Bindaree Food Group
Cattle Australia
Charles Sturt University
Fletcher International Exports
Global AgriTrends
Greenham
Gundagai Lamb
Harvest Road
Meat Business Women
MLA
NH Foods
Poll Dorset Lamb Supreme
Rimfire Resources
Stockyard
SunPork Group
Teys
The Art of Australian Beef
Thomas Foods International
WagStaff

Gallery

Highlight photos from our past conferences

Careers Expo

AACo
AACo

AACo

The Australian Agricultural Company (AACo) is Australia’s largest integrated cattle and beef producer, specialising in grass-fed, grain-fed, and Wagyu beef production. Established back in 1824, we’ve been doing this a while – in fact, we’re Australia’s oldest continuously operating company. We’ve had plenty of time to figure out how to be the best workplace we can be, with all the support, training, and opportunity you need to shape your career how you want to. We’re dedicated to acknowledging our history even as we look to sustainably feed the future – and we’d love you to join us.

https://aaco.com.au/

AAM
AAM

AAM

AAM is a large-scale, wholly Australian-owned operator and provider of strategic investment, asset management and operational management services to Australia’s agricultural industry. At the heart of the AAM business is a steadfast belief in the strength and long-term performance of Australian agriculture, and a commitment to promoting change-making investments in the industry.

https://www.aamig.com.au/

Agri Talent & Agri Labour Australia
Agri Talent & Agri Labour Australia

Agri Talent & Agri Labour Australia

Agri Talent and Agri Labour Australia’s Leading Agricultural Recruitment Specialists Australia's largest privately owned agricultural recruitment company, Agri Talent and Agri Labour provide tailored workforce solutions for the entire agricultural sector. From executive and management roles to seasonal and operational workers, we connect agribusinesses with top talent. Our expertise spans all levels, ensuring businesses have the skilled professionals they need to thrive. With a deep understanding of agriculture’s unique challenges, and with lived experience within the sector, we deliver dedicated workforce solutions that drive success nationwide.

https://www.agritalent.com.au/

AUS-MEAT Limited
AUS-MEAT Limited

AUS-MEAT Limited

AUS-MEAT is at the forefront of agribusiness auditing, certification, and training across Australia and New Zealand. For the Australian Red Meat industry AUS-MEAT has 3 primary functions: 1. Compliance. Through regular auditing, we ensure that producers and processors are complying with the requirements necessary for Quality integrity systems and market access. 2. Standards. We have a co-regulatory role with DAFF and work industry peak bodies to create and maintain Accreditation, Language & Standards for the Australian Red Meat Industry. 3. Training. Our Registered Training Organisation provides industry recognised training for the meat industry. We have a wide range of roles including auditors (across Australia and New Zealand), trainers, reviewers, program managers and corporate support. Visit our website for more information and follow us on social media to stay updated.

https://www.ausmeat.com.au/

Australian Country Choice
Australian Country Choice

Australian Country Choice

2027 Graduate Program As Australia’s largest family-owned, vertically integrated beef business, Australian Country Choice is one of the few places where graduates can gain insight across the entire supply chain. Our graduate program is designed to give you real experience, real responsibility, and a real understanding of how the industry works, all while building the skills and relationships that shape long-term careers. Choose Your Adventure Processing Stream Based in our state-of-the-art processing facility, this stream offers in-depth experience in food production, quality systems, logistics, innovation, and commercial operations. Agribusiness Stream Based across our cattle, farming, and feedlot operations, this stream focuses on animal welfare, land management, nutrition, data systems, and operations at scale. Feedlot Stream ACC’s two-year Feedlot Trainee Manager program offers an intense learning path in Feedlot Operations that sets you up to accelerate your management career. This program is ideal for energetic, up-and-coming livestock professionals who have leadership aspirations and are keen to kick start their careers in the cattle and beef industry.

https://www.accbeef.net.au/

Australian Food Super
Australian Food Super

Australian Food Super

Australian Food Super has been around for almost 40 years. And while we have been known as the largest meat industry superannuation fund in Australia, these days, you don’t need to work in the meat industry to be a member. Being a member of Australian Food Super is not just about saving for retirement, it’s actually a community. And one of the things that makes us a little bit different to other funds is our personal service. We are a small, agile, and hardworking team, dedicated to helping our members understand their super and get the most out of it, and for those employers where large groups of our members work, we provide that service onsite. To find out more, come and see the team at our stand.

Australian Lot Feeders Association
Australian Lot Feeders Association

Australian Lot Feeders Association

The Australian Lot Feeders’ Association (ALFA) is the peak national body representing the Australian cattle feedlot industry. ALFA strives to improve the professionalism, community standing, and profitability of the feedlot industry via, Industry Representation, Strategic Levy Investment, Industry Development and Membership Services

https://www.feedlots.com.au/

Australian Meat Group
Australian Meat Group

Australian Meat Group

The Australian Meat Group was founded by Joe Catalfamo and Gilbert Cabral in 2013. Our vision was to build a state-of-the-art meat processing infrastructure that produces the highest quality meat products for local and international markets. AMG abattoirs and facilities house the highest levels of hygiene and safe food handling. Efficiency, humane processing and work force health and safety attributes. Australians clean and green disease-free status coupled with full traceability of tagged livestock has given Australian meat a strong, competitive advantage on the world stage. At AMG we build on this by only sourcing premium stock from Australia’s richest grazing country. We maintain excellent relationships with the very best suppliers, both at the farm gate and at livestock markets.

https://www.amg.com.au

Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC)
Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC)

Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC)

Please use the one from previous year

http://ampc.com.au

Australian Pork Limited
Australian Pork Limited

Australian Pork Limited

Australian Pork Ltd (APL) is the national peak industry representative body for Australian pork producers. APL is a producer-owned company and Research and Development Corporation (RDC) responsible for marketing, export market access, research, innovation and extension and strategic policy advocacy to assist in securing a profitable and sustainable future for the Australian pork industry.

https://australianpork.com.au

Bank of Queensland
Bank of Queensland

Bank of Queensland

BOQ Agribusiness is the specialist rural and regional banking division of the Bank of Queensland (BOQ). It focuses on supporting Australia’s agricultural sector by providing tailored financial solutions to farmers and agribusinesses. A key feature of BOQ Agribusiness is its relationship-based approach, with experienced local bankers who understand farming operations and regional conditions, helping clients manage growth, volatility, and long-term sustainability.

https://www.boq.com.au/business/industry-specialists/agribusiness/

Bindaree Food Group
Bindaree Food Group

Bindaree Food Group

Bindaree Food Group is one of Australia’s leading vertically integrated agribusinesses, specialising in premium beef production and supply from paddock to plate. With operations spanning processing, retail-ready production, and global export, Bindaree is committed to delivering quality product while embracing innovation, sustainability, and strong relationships across the industry. We’re looking forward to expanding our graduate program in 2027 with more opportunities than ever before. We pride ourselves in offering emerging talent the opportunity to gain hands-on experience across key areas of the business, including operations, supply chain, and commercial functions. This program is designed to develop future leaders by providing structured mentorship, practical learning, and exposure to real-world challenges within a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

https://bindareefoodgroup.com.au/

Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Commonwealth Bank of Australia

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

At CommBank, you’ll be part of something bigger, you’ll do work that truly matters. Our mission is powered by our people, and through our Graduate and Early Careers Programs, you’ll have the opportunity to build diverse skills, share your unique perspectives and pursue your passions. Ready to launch your career? Our programs give you real responsibility, the opportunity to work on meaningful projects, and the chance to make a difference from day one.

https://www.commbank.com.au/about-us/careers/graduate

Delta Agribusiness
Delta Agribusiness

Delta Agribusiness

Delta Ag is a leading private and independent provider of farm inputs, farm advisory, and agency services across Regional Australia. With a strategic footprint across Western Australia, Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, and Southern Queensland, we are a dynamic and diverse agribusiness which takes pride in being a significant employer of choice in regional communities. At Delta Agribusiness we partner with farmers to make the right decisions. In a highly competitive marketplace, it is the integrity of our people that make the difference. We are committed to being innovative and making smart decisions to add value to our clients. With a culture of empowering staff and branches, we are passionate about rural communities, the profitability of our clients and the sustainability of agriculture at all levels.

https://www.deltaag.com.au/

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

The Department of Agriculture is the federal competent authority that regulates the importation and export of various food commodities including red meat and meat products. It authorises export licensing and regulates compliance with the Export Control Act and the Imported Food Act. It also has a role in export inspection and certification, maintaining and facilitating market access provides guidance on importing country requirements through online systems such as the Manual of Importing Country Requirements (Micor).

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/

EC Throsby
EC Throsby

EC Throsby

E C Throsby and Hilltop Meats is a family-owned group of Australian businesses and a leading export beef processor specialising in cows and bulls. Our unique hot boning process sets us apart as a leader in the Australian beef industry. With quality and safety at the core of our values, our experienced team ensures we consistently meet the highest standards and maintain access to export markets worldwide. Our modern processing facilities in Whittingham and Young (NSW) position us at the forefront of Australia’s export beef industry. We’re always on the lookout for skilled and motivated people to join our team. We welcome applications from experienced Meat Workers, QA Officers, Electricians, and Fitters who are passionate about quality, safety, and teamwork.

https://ecthrosby.com.au/

Fletcher International Exports
Fletcher International Exports

Fletcher International Exports

Fletcher International Exports is an Australian, family owned company with rich history. Our 40+ year story of growth reflects strength in both quality and brand. At grass-roots, we are meat processors, with two highly efficient abattoir plants (Dubbo NSW and Albany WA). These plants have grown the Fletcher brand to be one of Australia’s most integrated processors and exporters of lamb and sheep meat products. Our friendly, diverse workforce uphold the highest standards of animal welfare and total control of quality from farm through processing and on to over 100 markets. The Fletcher meat processing philosophy has always been to utilise as much of each animal as possible. Consequently, in addition to lamb and sheep meat products, wool and sheep skins, the company markets a diverse range of high quality by-products. The Fletcher family and workforce aim to produce consistent, high quality, branded products and efficiencies underpinning growth in Australia and around the world, tailored to evolving customer requirements. The expansion of the company’s farming interests has continued to increase the degree of vertical integration across the business. These interests have strengthened the livestock supply chain, while the grain produced at the company’s properties and sourced from local farms is sold directly to end users in export markets, allowing Fletchers to remain strong through seasonal changes both locally and in the global marketplace.

https://www.fletchint.com.au/

FMG Global
FMG Global

FMG Global

Buying arm for McDonald's. FMG purchase 85% of McDonald's Global beef & pork requirements across offices in LATAM, US, EU & Australia.

https://fmg.global/

Greenham Australia
Greenham Australia

Greenham Australia

Greenham is a 100% Australian family‑owned beef processing and agribusiness company, with over six generations of experience in the red meat industry. From premium cattle supply programs to export‑accredited processing facilities across Victoria and Tasmania, Greenham is committed to delivering high‑quality, responsibly produced Australian beef to domestic and global markets. Greenham offers a dedicated Graduate Program designed to develop future leaders of the red meat industry. The program provides graduates with meaningful, hands‑on experience across key areas of the business, supported by structured learning, mentoring, and exposure to real operational and commercial outcomes. Greenham also offers professional placement opportunities for university students in 2026, giving students practical insight into beef production, processing, supply chains and agribusiness pathways.

https://www.greenham.com.au/

Gundagai Lamb
Harmony Agriculture & Food Company
Harmony Agriculture & Food Company

Harmony Agriculture & Food Company

Harmony is a premium-branded beef company established in 2016. Harmony’s core business is focused on the production of high-end, grain-fed beef products. Our current F1 Wagyu supply chain supports an annual production volume of over 5,000 tonnes and places us in the world’s top 10 Wagyu producers. At Harmony we supply branded wagyu beef products to over 15 markets globally; our customers include wholesalers, importers, and distributers supplying chefs, restaurants and butchers around the world with the highest quality Wagyu.

https://www.haafco.com

JBS Australia
JBS Australia

JBS Australia

Future meat, livestock and food industry enthusiasts wanted! If you are an undergrad engineer, ag innovator or all-rounder: JBS is your launchpad to get hands on, think big, and help feed the world. JBS Australia, part of the global JBS business, is the largest and most respected meat and food processor in Australia with a strong portfolio of leading beef, lamb, pork, salmon, smallgoods and value-added branded products. JBS’ mission is to be the best in all that we do, completely focused on our business, ensuring the best products and services to our customers, a relationship of trust with our suppliers, profitability for our shareholders and the opportunity of a better future for all of our team members. We have current opportunities across innovation, feedlots and sales/marketing! Chat to the team at the stand to find out more. Currently recruiting; – Lamb Feedlot Supervisor, Southern NSW – Livestock Cadet – QLD – Continuous Improvement – Southern – Pen riders – Southern NSW

https://careers.jbssa.com.au/

JOHN DEE
JOHN DEE

JOHN DEE

John Dee is a long‑established, family-owned Australian beef processing and export company based in Warwick, Queensland. Founded in 1939 by the Hart family, it is regarded as Australia’s oldest single-family owned meat processor. The company operates a major abattoir and processing facility in Warwick, sourcing cattle from the Darling Downs and nearby regions. The business is supported by a logistics business in Warwick and an export office in Brisbane. John Dee specialises in premium long fed Wagyu and Angus beef production, supplying both domestic and international markets. It exports to dozens of countries and serves a wide range of customers across global markets. The business remains family-run across four generations, with a strong reputation for quality, consistency, and service. We currently have a number of graduate positions open for those wanting to gain a thorough understanding of the beef industry and including careers in Sales, Logistics, Operations Management, IT, and Technical Trades.

http://johndee.com.au

MEQ Solutions
MEQ Solutions

MEQ Solutions

MEQ Solutions is an Australian agri-tech company solving one of the red meat industry's most entrenched challenges: how to measure meat quality objectively and consistently, and make it count commercially. By replacing subjective, manual grading with technology, MEQ removes guesswork and delivers trusted, real-time data across the entire supply chain – from the live animal, to the carcase, to the brand on the shelf. The business combines advanced hardware with a cloud analytics platform across four integrated products: – MEQ Live (on-animal ultrasound and AI prediction in the feedlot) – MEQ Probe and MEQ Camera (objective measurement of marbling, intramuscular fat, ribeye area and other traits on the slaughter floor and in the chillers) – MEQ Insights (a cloud platform turning that data into decisions). The technology spans computer vision, spectroscopy, ultrasound, predictive modelling and software engineering. MEQ has a range of Field Technician roles available across NSW and QLD. This role involves a lot of customer interaction, being on the ground and servicing our customers all across Australia.

https://meqsolutions.com/

MLA
MLA

MLA

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) is the industry service body driving the success of Australia’s red meat sector by investing in marketing, research, development and adoption (RD&A) to improve productivity, sustainability and global competitiveness. Working in partnership with producers and the wider supply chain, MLA delivers world class programs that grow demand for Australian beef, sheepmeat and goatmeat while generating practical on-farm supply chain innovations. For early career professionals passionate about the red meat industry, MLA offers diverse opportunities across marketing, RD&A, communications from entry level through to upper management.

https://www.mla.com.au/

NH Foods Australia
NH Foods Australia

NH Foods Australia

NH Foods Australia is responsible for producing Australia’s Premium Beef Range, multi award-winning beef brands that are recognised for their premium quality and ability to meet the diverse needs of customers worldwide. In Australia, we operate three large processing facilities strategically positioned in prime cattle regions along the East Coast: Mackay and Oakey in Queensland, and Wingham in New South Wales. The operations of these processing facilities are supported by our feedlot, Whyalla Beef, located in Texas, Queensland. With a license for 75,000 head of cattle, it’s one of the most modern feedlots in the southern hemisphere. Our processing facilities are acknowledged as industry leading operations for food safety and hygiene, and all carry accreditations that are recognised around the world. Our mission is simple: to deliver the joy of eating through expertly produced beef.

https://www.nh-foods.com.au/

Nutrien Ag Solutions
Nutrien Ag Solutions

Nutrien Ag Solutions

Nutrien Ag Solutions is an integral part of the Australian agricultural industry. Our generations of experience have made us experts in a range of different farming areas, including precision farming services, marketing livestock and wool, agricultural services, water, finance, insurance, merchandise and real estate. Nationally, we're the largest distributor of both farming supplies and fertiliser in Australia and provide unparalleled access to solutions. Our team of more than 4,000 farming experts are committed to upholding the mission and values that make us the ag retailer of the future. After decades of serving Australian farmers as separate companies, Ruralco and Landmark combined in 2019 to become Nutrien Ag Solutions, marking a new era in Australian ag retail. Nutrien Ag Solutions is dedicated to supporting early careers Our two-year Graduate Program offers unique opportunities for future leaders in the Agronomy, Agribusiness and Corporate sectors. Our Livestock Career Development Program will provide the skills and training you need to be a future leader or technical expert within the livestock industry. We are also offering four scholarships with a total investment of around $80,000 over the next few years through our 'Harvesting the Future' scholarship program

https://www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au/

Rimfire Resources
Rimfire Resources

Rimfire Resources

Since 1998, Rimfire have been leaders in agribusiness recruitment and HR solutions across Australia and New Zealand. We’re proud of our strong and long-standing relationships within the agribusiness sector which ultimately empowers us to find the right people and HR solutions to work in your business. A wide range of experience and knowledge in the agribusiness industry and supply chain allows us to focus on outcomes with a strong appreciation of regional issues and challenges.

https://www.rimfireresources.com.au/

Signature Onfarm
Signature Onfarm

Signature Onfarm

Signature Onfarm is a family-owned, vertically integrated beef business based at Sondella Station in Central Queensland. As part of the Angus family’s vertically integrated supply chain we operate every stage of the supply chain, from cattle production and feedlot operations through to processing and domestic and international sales. Operating from our state-of-the-art on farm processing facility we are committed to producing premium beef products that showcase exceptional eating quality, craftsmanship and traceability. Our business combines traditional stockmanship with innovative processing and supply chain practices, creating a unique paddock-to-plate model that delivers quality outcomes for customers around the world. At Signature Onfarm, we are passionate about developing the next generation of agricultural and agribusiness professionals. We offer hands-on experience across multiple areas of the beef industry, providing team members with exposure to the entire supply chain Upcoming Employment Opportunities: We offer a year long graduate program which focuses on educating future generations on the entire supply chain to kick start your career in the Australian beef industry. It is a 12-month rotation through all assets of our business including pastoral, feed lotting and beef processing. This is a fantastic opportunity if you are interested in building a rewarding career within a progressive and growing agribusiness.

https://www.signatureonfarm.com/

Stanbroke
Stanbroke

Stanbroke

Stanbroke is a vertically integrated beef and cattle business, and a second-generation family-owned company. We pride ourselves on our paddock-to-plate approach, from our properties in Northern Queensland through to our restaurant in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley. We are currently offering a 2027 Graduate Program based at our processing facility. This program gives graduates the opportunity to rotate through four to five different departments within the facility, gaining a broad understanding of the beef industry and the different areas that support our operations. We also have a range of entry-level and administration opportunities available for people seeking part-time or full-time work. These roles can provide consistent employment across areas such as production, accounts, livestock and other key departments within the business.

https://www.stanbroke.com/

Stockyard Beef Pty Ltd
Stockyard Beef Pty Ltd

Stockyard Beef Pty Ltd

Stockyard Beef is a proudly Australian, family owned business with over 65 years of experience producing premium grain fed Wagyu and Angus beef. From our paddock to plate operations across Queensland and beyond, we are committed to quality, sustainability, and innovation – earning recognition as one of Australia’s most awarded branded beef producers. At Stockyard, our people are at the heart of what we do. We offer diverse career opportunities across livestock, feedlot operations, and corporate roles. Whether you’re starting out or looking to grow your career, we provide hands on experience, training, and development pathways in a values driven, team focused environment.

https://www.stockyardbeef.com.au/

SUNPORK GROUP
SUNPORK GROUP

SUNPORK GROUP

SunPork Group is an Australian vertically integrated pork company that is a supplier of highly regarded pork products sold throughout major retailers, food service, wholesale and export channels due to our relentless commitment to quality and our dedicated team.

https://www.sunporkgroup.com.au/

Teys Australia
Teys Australia

Teys Australia

An ever-evolving global food group We have always been a company with true family values at our core. Built by the Teys family, we grew our business by staying true to our word and delivering the best of Australian beef to customers at home and around the world. We proudly honour our local roots, and our Cargill ownership brings global scale to strengthen our commitment to Australian producers and customers worldwide. We’re focused on creating brighter, better and more sustainable futures for our employees, communities, and the planet – as we feed people and enrich lives, together. Our Graduate Program 2026 applications are now open. We have opportunities across the business, including our Feedlots, Processing Sites, and Corporate Office. Visit our website to explore current openings: https://teysgroupau.currentjobs.co/Job/

https://teysgroupau.currentjobs.co/Job/

The North Australian Pastoral Company (NAPCo)
The North Australian Pastoral Company (NAPCo)

The North Australian Pastoral Company (NAPCo)

The North Australian Pastoral Company (NAPCo) was founded in 1877 and is one of Australia's leading beef cattle companies, managing over 6.1 million hectares, largest single herd in the world and home to Five Founders Beef. NAPCo employs approximately 220 staff operating across Queensland and the Northern Territory, with 15 cattle stations, a Depot in Mount Isa, a Feedlot and Farm in the Darling Downs and an office in Brisbane's CBD.

http://www.napco.com.au

Thomas Foods International Pty Ltd
Thomas Foods International Pty Ltd

Thomas Foods International Pty Ltd

Thomas Foods International (TFI) was built from a genuine passion and respect for the land in 1988. Today, TFI produces and processes Australian beef, lamb, mutton and goat, proudly supplying products all around the world. Over the past almost four decades, TFI has consciously grown to encompass each step of the supply-chain, operating as a vertically integrated business. We are Australia’s largest 100% family-owned and operated red meat processor. Now with 20 offices in nine countries, our Group Head Office is still where it all began in Adelaide, South Australia. Supporting our ability to deliver some of the best produce Australia has to offer are over 4,000 TFI employees, all of whom honour and operate with that same passion and respect that started it all. With our global footprint and dedication to sharing the best red meat Australia has to offer, we actively pursue our mission of feeding families globally.

http://www.thomasfoods.com

Tibaldi (Aust) Pty Ltd
Tibaldi (Aust) Pty Ltd

Tibaldi (Aust) Pty Ltd

In 1934 the Tibaldi family of butchers had a dream – to provide Australian families with only the finest cuts of meat, processed the traditional way using their authentic recipes. Over the following 80 years that big dream has been fulfilled, with Tibaldi now a major supplier to the retail, route and food service industries right across the nation – and our products enjoyed by Australians everywhere. And though the way we produce and deliver our products has evolved throughout those decades, our dedication to crafting authentic, quality smallgoods has never changed. Tibaldi operate two manufacturing sites located in Clayton, Victoria. These state-of-the-art facilities specialise in ham, bacon, smallgoods and fresh pork. Our new processing facility, opened in 2020 marks us as an industry leader in delivering premium quality, fresh and value-added pork to the wholesale and retail sectors.

https://tibaldi.com.au/

Zoetis
Zoetis

Zoetis

As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide – from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock farmers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries.

https://www2.zoetis.com.au

ICMJ

Building careers in the 
meat industry since 1990.

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