CATTLENEWS Official Newsletter of the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association (NTCA) | May 2017 NTCA applauds Federal Court ruling in export ban action On 31 March, after an 18-month battle by the NT Cattlemen’s Association for such a decision, the Federal Court in Sydney ordered former Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig and the Commonwealth to hand over ministerial documents relating to Mr Ludwig’s June 2011 decision to ban live cattle exports. News of the ruling came during Stockwell said the court order “Some time ago the the first session of the NTCA’s for Mr Ludwig to hand over all Commonwealth promised to annual industry conference and records relating to the ban was behave like a model litigant in CEO Tracey Hayes was greeted a significant step forward in this case so it’s astounding that with tumultuous applause from the class action involving many we’ve had to fight so hard to the 550 delegates present when producers and affiliated industry get this material, and that Joe she took to the stage between businesses. Ludwig has had to be ordered speakers to announce the to provide it. We expected to sit outcome. They said the ordered documents down and negotiate this matter would assist the NTCA, strongly but to date the Commonwealth The court ruling referred to supported by the Australian has not been interested. We private mobile phone records Farmers’ Fighting Fund, to run still hold some hope that this and personal email accounts the case listed for hearing in July. will happen but, if not, we will used by Mr Ludwig in the lead up “These documents are central continue to pursue it with as to him imposing the ban, which to the industry’s claim for much vigour as we have in the severely disrupted the northern compensation for affected past.” cattle industry. pastoralists and their families who have lost an estimated $600 In a joint statement, Ms Hayes million,” they said. and NTCA President Tom NTCA 33RD ANNUAL INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

WRAP-UP

STARTS PAGE 12 Australian Beef Sustainability Framework launched The ground-breaking Australian Beef “We must be vigilant and able to respond to any Sustainability Framework, designed to future- risks or opportunities as an industry. That is why proof the nation’s entire beef value chain, was the launch of this framework is accompanied released by the Red Meat Advisory Council with a clear forward strategy and a robust (RMAC) on 6 April. governance framework focused on driving action and delivering outcomes for Australian The framework focuses on fostering longevity beef businesses from the farm to feedlots to and prosperity for both producers and consumers processors.” through four key themes - Environmental Stewardship; Economic Resilience; People and The document has been developed by the the Community, and Animal Welfare. Sustainability Steering Group after a year of It will be used by industry to guide continuous consultation with industry, retailers, regulators, improvement in sustainable practices and, in banks, investors, interest groups, customers doing so, paint a clear and honest picture of our and the community. It lists 23 priority areas to progress for the community and industry. enhance animal wellbeing and health, increase profitability, productivity and market access; “We recognise that consumers and the improve land management, address climate community have changing expectations of our change and minimise waste; produce safe and industry and we want to satisfy the community nutritious food, build workforce capability and – and ourselves – that we are doing everything ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of people possible to ensure the longevity of the businesses, in the industry. families and communities that the Australian beef industry represents,” RMAC’s independent To obtain a copy visit: chair Don Mackay said. www.sustainableaustralianbeef.com.au Veteran Cattleman Ted Fogarty Remembered The Territory cattle industry broadcast as part of the ABC’s The NTCA was saddened by lost another of its well-known Drovers series in 2009. news of the passing of another and respected identities when Snippets from that recording Territory pastoral legend Central Australian pastoralist tell of a tough early life for the and has extended sincere Ted Fogarty passed away on 8 young Ted who was born in 1923 condolences to Ted’s family. April, at the age of 93. on Delamere Station, south of Katherine. His mother delivered Former , horse-musterer, him alone after rising floodwaters station manager and bore cut the station off, and he lost his plant owner Ted Fogarty was father when he was very young fondly remembered by his boy. When he was old enough family and many friends at his to leave home, he ventured to funeral at Anningie Station, the Kimberley to work on cattle then at his wake at Aileron stations and later moved to Roadhouse and, the next day, Cloncurry in outback Queensland. at a celebration of his life at the Ted continued his life in the bush RSL Club. before putting in a successful bid for a vacant lot near Alice Springs Ted Fogarty’s fascinating life in the 1950s and bringing in 1,600 story was recorded for the cattle from his brother’s station National Library of Australia 2,000 km to the north. Ted later some years ago and re- married and raised five children.

NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 2 NTCA submission to fracking inquiry The NT Cattlemen’s Association has told the Northern Territory Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing it does not support the activity within the Territory’s current regulatory framework because the associated risks have not yet been sufficiently quantified, understood and explained. It said its position is based on present scientific knowledge and will be reviewed as the scientific inquiry process evolves. President Tom Stockwell and framework for Access, Conduct association and its members CEO Tracey Hayes presented and Compensation Agreements needed to be addressed. These the NTCA submission to between landholders and included the integrity and the Darwin session before proponents. security of: land, water and Chair Justice Rachel Pepper “Our mission is to protect and terrestrial ecosystems; water on 10 March. They said the enhance the interests of our quality and quantity; market Association’s members, members,” it says. “Sustainability and consumer confidence in representing over 90% of the is more than a buzz-word to the the safety and value of their Territory cattle herd, held people of our industry. It is the products; their livelihoods diverse views of hydraulic bedrock of our existence and and businesses; industry fracturing, ranging from continuing contribution to the NT systems and accreditations, support for the increased community and economy. and community health and development it will bring to “We acknowledge the wellbeing. most Australians, to fears considerable gas reserves located that the risks it poses to the within the Northern Territory “Any risks related to these environment and enterprises provide significant economic issues must be acknowledged, far outweigh the potential enticement to governments and systems put in place to benefits. present and future. The NTCA mitigate them to demonstrate also recognises that fossil a commitment to limiting any “The NTCA has sought, on fuel reserves are finite, while potential negative impact as behalf of its members, the livestock production and the result of a gas industry,” the ultimate right to protect their agriculture generally will operate submission stated. livelihoods, land, water and in perpetuity. We do not believe natural resources, including that the pursuit of benefits to The NTCA will provide a the right to say no,” they said. be gained from extracting finite comprehensive written “However, we also support resources such as gas for energy, submission as the inquiry the right of our members to should negatively impact on the process evolves, and decide to have unconventional long-term benefit gained from reserves its final position shale gas developers access our industry.” on the identified and future their land if they can come risks until the results and to an appropriate agreement. The NTCA said that regardless recommendations of the Should a landholder agree of the inquiry’s outcome, a inquiry are known. to access, the Government number of non-negotiable issues must establish a legislative of primary concern for the

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NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 4 NTCA submission to ABC shortwave radio inquiry

The NTCA was loud in and raise their families in and lack of regard for people condemning the ABC’s decision some of the most remote and impacted by this decision. The to switch off its shortwave isolated areas of the Australian fact that the shortwave is the transmission services to the continent. only option available to this bush in January and has particular group of listeners followed up with a hard-hitting “The decision by ABC appears to be completely lost submission to a federal inquiry management to terminate the on the ABC management. We into the decision. broadcast of the ABC Local challenge the ABC to clearly Radio via shortwave in the NT explain how those listeners who NTCA President Tom Stockwell is a betrayal of all that the ABC rely on the shortwave service warned late last year that should stand for and does not can now access emergency the decision would see many align with their statement that information, ABC news and remote-living Territorians suffer the ABC is deeply committed entertainment. the consequences of having their to rural and regional Australia” communications life-line cut. they said. “We do not accept that the VAST satellite is an acceptable “This decision will seriously “The decision taken by alternative and it’s misleading impact on significant numbers ABC management without of the ABC to suggest otherwise. of rural Australians, among consultation or without Whilst it is acceptable for the them many of our own members an adequate impact study ABC to be pursuing extension of and other rural Territorials who demonstrates a complete digital transmission capabilities rely solely on the shortwave disregard for what could be to a category of listener that radio network because they considered as their most loyal has multiple options, it is not can’t access other forms of listeners. acceptable that extension be to communications including AM the detriment of listeners with or FM radio and mobile phone “ABC media releases stating NO other options.” coverage.” that a small audience living and working in the Northern The NTCA said contrary to Tom Stockwell and CEO Tracey Territory favour shortwave when the recent claim by the head Hayes told the inquiry NTCA accessing ABC services is further of the ABC that only fifteen members make their livelihoods evidence of the total ignorance people expressed concern over the closure, its own 24- hour poll to gauge impact attracted 98 responses and the overwhelming response was that people valued, above all else, the sense of connection that is critical to mental health and wellbeing when living and working in remote Australia.

“Respondents stated that the removal of this service, and lack of replacement, leaves them in silence and solitude. In remote areas, where human interaction is limited, the additional pressures of isolation will have a profound effect on those living and working in these regions,” the NTCA submission said.

5 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 Northern Australia CRC launched

The Australian Government has launched its new $75 million CRC for Developing Northern Australia, in keeping with a key measure of the Northern Australia White Paper, and has appointed a board to guide its agenda. NTCA CEO Tracey Hayes has been appointed to the board and will represent the Northern Territory. The CRC will have its headquarters in Townsville and projects that would enhance Northern Australia’s focus on attracting research projects that benefit the competitiveness. north. Cairns business woman Sheriden Morris will chair the board, which includes representatives from Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Senator Matt Canavan welcomed the CRC, describing Australia. it as a significant move which would focus on issues that mattered in the north. “And the fact that all the Federal Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, board members are from Northern Australia gives Arthur Sinodinos, said the CRC would bring together them a deep understanding of the issues facing the industry, research organisations and all northern north,” he said. jurisdictions with international partners to tackle “The government understands that to encourage barriers to private investment in the north, with industry-led research that focusses on the issues initial focus on agriculture, food and tropical health. that matter in Northern Australia, it’s essential to have representatives that understand the unique He also announced that applications were now conditions in the region. invited for short term collaborative research

NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 6 Bovine Johne’s Disease Management in the Northern Territory

Following national deregulation and commencing July 1, 2017, the Northern Territory will be transitioning from the interim BJD management position of JBAS 7 to JBAS 6 for entry of cattle. The Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association • For herds selling cattle to BJD sensitive markets (NTCA) has consulted comprehensively with both such as Western Australia, the detection of BJD in NTCA members, which represent over 90% of the NT the imported or local cattle has a high consequence cattle herd, NT Department of Primary Industries as the sale of cattle will be banned until the disease and Resources (DPIR) staff and other stakeholders, is eradicated. to develop an informed and comprehensive • The risk of disease entry, especially from the north industry position for the ongoing management of and inland Australia is very low. Bovine Johne’s Disease (BJD). • The risk of survival and spread of the disease in NT herds is very low. As of 1st June 2017, the NTCA supports the • Herd biosecurity is now the responsibility of herd adoption of the following position (pending NT managers and the protection of their access to Government gazettal): market with respect to disease, in particular BJD is 1. JBAS 6 or above is required for importation of now the responsibility of herd managers. cattle in to the NT. 2. JBAS 6 for NT herds will be encouraged. All stakeholders are encouraged to contact the 3. Maintaining JBAS 7 or higher to access WA will be NTCA (08) 8981 5976 or the NT DPIR (08) 8999 a commercial decision by individual herd managers. 2006 directly if they have any questions or require 4. Managing risk of disease entry through breeding further information about the NT’s position on stock from the northern or temperate zones is the BJD management beyond 1st July 2017. responsibility of the individual herd managers who may demand JBAS 7 or higher, or vaccination or other risk minimisation strategies. 5. An extensive, comprehensive and ongoing UPCOMING communication plan is implemented to inform and equip herd managers with the knowledge and tools NTCA BRANCH to: i.Understand the risks and MEETINGS ii.Manage the new arrangements efficiently. 6. BJD is included in the general Biosecurity plan BARKLY: document which is simplified, web and paper – WED. 24 MAY, 11AM, DPI MEETING ROOM, based, and supported with technical help. The BARKLY HOUSE, . detail of the Biosecurity Plans to be adopted by all producers needs to be further discussed and ALICE SPRINGS: clarified as this is integral to the requirements of THURS. 25 MAY, 11AM, ANDY MCNEILL ROOM, JBAS 6. 7. JBAS 6 Biosecurity Management Plans do not ALICE SPRINGS TOWN COUNCIL, 93 TODD ST. require veterinarian sign off. 8. Individual herd managers can add to the KATHERINE: biosecurity plan to suit their own circumstances. MON. 29 MAY, 11AM, KATHERINE RESEARCH 9. The NTCA support a dispensation for direct STATION. consignment to slaughter for any status of cattle. 10. The NTCA support the use of a permanent mark TOP END: plus a visual tag for identification of JD vaccinates. TUES. 30 MAY, 11AM, MEETING ROOM - JOHN ENGLAND BUILDING, BERRIMAH FARM. Background to the Policy

• For herds selling cattle to live export markets the detection of BJD in the imported or local cattle To RSVP or add items to the agenda of the has a very high consequence as current export meeting in your area please call/email the protocols ban the export of cattle from the property Darwin NTCA office on: Ph: (08) 8981 5976 or for 5 years. E: [email protected]

7 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 MOU signing leads to Beef Plan North

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by four major representative groups at the NTCA’s annual conference in Darwin, will result in ‘Beef Plan North’, a strategy tailored to capture future trade opportunities and provide collaborative grunt to the industry’s development in the north. The signatories included the Cattle Council of over 700,000 square kilometres and manages more Australia, Agforce Queensland, the Northern than two million head of cattle, contributes more Territory Cattlemen’s Association, and Pastoralists than $1 billion a year directly to the NT economy. and Graziers Association of Western Australia. Territory pastoralists have more than $4.5 billion Federal Minister for Northern Australia Senator Matt invested in the NT – which makes the cattle industry Canavan and NT Primary Industry and Resources one of the most valuable long-term pillars of the Minister Ken Vowles also signed the MOU. economy. NTCA chief executive officer Tracey Hayes described CCA president Howard Smith told the conference Beef Plan North as a visionary plan aimed at meeting the new strategy would complement the Meat the great opportunities and challenges ahead for Industry Strategic Plan and be underpinned by the industry and a collaborative effort was crucial to existing government and industry research to ensure achieving long term success for the entire industry. investment in the north had the biggest effect while She said the groups involved wanted to work as one protecting the region’s integrity and biosecurity. to position the northern industry “to drive a new era of development, growth and innovation for all of Australia”. “The plan covers a vast area of Australia north of Government reviews the Tropic of Capricorn and it’s crucial that we work together for the mutual benefit of us all. This management plans collaborative approach must consider two State governments, one Territory government, the Federal for high risk weeds Government, three State farming organisations, one national industry body and various regional The NT Government’s Weed Management Branch stakeholder groups.” recently sought input from NTCA members Beef Plan North will be supported by existing as part of its review of the Territory’s current government and industry research conducted to statutory weed Management plans for Gamba assess where investment in the North can offer the Grass, Bellyache Bush and Mimosa. The branch highest return. The plan encourages innovative will use members’ feedback to help make thinking and targeted investment programs to changes to the existing plans and develop new unlock significant growth potential. plans. Tracey says the cattle industry, which has custody of Statutory weed management plans describe legal obligations to manage these weeds. This review seeks your comment on the management requirements and achievability of these requirements as described in these plans.

A branch spokesperson says Gamba Grass, Bellyache Bush and Mimosa are each listed as high risk weeds in the Territory and the objective of the review of their management plans will aim to mitigate the risk they can pose for the regional economy and environment.

Queries about these weeds and the review can The signing of the MOU - (left to right) Cattle Council Australia CEO be directed to Belinda Townend: Duncan Bremner, Senator the Hon. Matthew Canavan, Minister Ken Ph: 8946 5217 or E: [email protected]. Vowles, NTCA President Tom Stockwell. NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 8 Industry feedback to help improve North Australian biosecurity

The Federal Department of biosecurity in northern Australia. For further information, please Agriculture recently sought An early activity has been to contact the Department’s Animal feedback from NTCA members compile a priority list of animal Health Surveillance Director and other stakeholders as part diseases for northern Australia to Sue Fitzpatrick: of plans to develop surveillance ensure that all relevant animal Phone: 08 8998 4908 improvement programs in pests and diseases are considered. Mobile: 0466 359 368 Northern Australia. The survey This involved stakeholders and [email protected] information will be used to north Australian government establish a priority animal agencies identifying their most disease list for the north. significant animal pests and diseases of concern in an online In 2015, the Australian survey. Government committed funding to strengthen the region’s Surveillance specialists who met biosecurity under the Developing with stakeholders in Darwin in the North and Agricultural February are now in the process Competitiveness White Paper of analysing the lists to generate initiatives. disease maps of northern The Northern Australia Biosecurity Australia. Reference Group was established These will show the relative in 2016 with industry and likelihood of a disease entering (if government representatives not already present), spreading to provide strategic advice on, and establishing in northern and support for, a collaborative Australia. approach to the delivery of

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9 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 NTCA joins new coalition tackling data-drought

The NT Cattlemen’s Association has joined forces services. with other prominent industry advocacy groups in “The roll-out of the Interim Satellite Solution a coalition that will strive to end Australia’s data program and the transition to Sky Muster has drought. proven incredibly difficult for many remote Territory businesses and this has resulted in prolonged The new Regional, Rural and Remote Communications periods without any connectivity – and with no Coalition will champion better communications alternative,” she says. services for producers and small businesses operating “Many of our producers live in areas where satellite in rural, remote or regional areas. is their only option. In order to trade effectively and competitively in a global market, third world The coalition includes the NTCA, Australian communication settings are not acceptable.” Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN), the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), the Country Women’s Association of NSW, the Isolated Children’s For more information please visit: www.farmers.org. Parents’ Association (ICPA) and AgForce Queensland. au/datadrought or http://www.ntca.org.au/

ACCAN CEO Teresa Corbin says the coalition was formed to highlight the collective concerns of families, businesses and communities in rural and regional Australia about the lack of equitable access to reliable Dr Ross hails and quality telecommunications services in regional, rural and remote Australia. Australia as ‘The “2017 must be the year of delivering real improvements to digital connectivity in the bush,” she Lucky Country for says. Beef’ The group has developed a list of fundamental outcomes as measures of equitable connectivity for In his April South East Asian Beef Report, regional and remote consumers. They include: Jakarta-based industry consultant Dr Ross Ainsworth has sung the praises of Australia’s • A universal service obligation that is technology butcher shop beef product choices after a neutral and provides access to both voice and data recent visit to the home country. • Customer service guarantees and reliability measures to underpin the provision of voice and He said he enjoyed going to the supermarkets data services and deliver more accountability from and butcher shops to see the many offerings of providers and nbn beef. “Aussies don’t realise how lucky they are • Long term public funding for open access mobile to be able to select from such a huge range of network expansion in rural and regional Australia products,” he said. • Fair and equitable access to Sky Muster satellite These include MSA (Meat Standards Australia) services for those with a genuine need for the beef at local outlets at some of the lowest prices (considering income) in the world. service, and access which reflects the residential, “Magnificent top quality beef is virtually educational and business needs of rural and guaranteed by the MSA process - and I’m regional Australia getting a beef craving just writing about it”. • Fully resourced capacity building programs that build digital ability, and provide learning and Dr Ainsworth said key points of the MSA effective problem solving support for regional, quality assurance process included consumers rural and remote businesses and consumers. not needing specialist beef knowledge, labels advising correct cooking methods for each NTCA CEO, Tracey Hayes, says the association beef cut to ensure the eating quality result, welcomes the opportunity to be part of a coalition involving all sectors of the beef production that will work to achieve positive change in this area, chain, and the processor, feedlot and producer and highlighted issues with the new communications receiving feedback on eating quality.

NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 10 Fifteen new starters for RJP pastoral training in 2017 Fifteen prospective young in the Territory. Indigenous station workers RJP coordinator Tara Fulwood travelled to Alice Springs from has been keeping tabs on how across the north in early March the trainees have fitted in on the to begin two weeks of intensive stations. “All of them love the training as the latest participants stations and people they’ve been in the NTCA’s award-winning Real placed with,” she says. “We’ve had Jobs Program (RJP). really good feedback and it sounds The pre-employment training was like everybody has settled in really conducted at the Bohning Yards well.” 2017 Real Jobs Program recruits. complex on the outskirts of town and took the trainees through the Each trainee worker has been wide-ranging skills necessary to enrolled to complete Certificate be job-ready for their placements 2 or Certificate 3 in Agriculture on cattle stations across the Top and the course is being conducted End – and, in one case, Barrow through Charles Darwin University. Creek. Tara says it’s been rewarding to This year’s recruits have come see six former recruits now in from Doomagee in Queensland’s full-time station employment after Gulf country, and from Borroloola, graduating from the two-year RJP Mentor Jason Craigie teaching recruit Ryan Daly River, Yarralin and Katherine training initiative. about welding techniques.

Drought Assistance Concessional Loans (Northern Territory) LOAN APPLICATIONS OPEN

Loans of up to $1 million are available to eligible farm businesses for a Balance and team work - building combination of the following purposes: confidence in both horse and person. • debt restructuring • new debt for operating expenses • new debt for drought preparedness activities or • drought recovery activities. Drought Assistance Concessional Loans are delivered by QRAA on behalf of the Australian Government in Northern Territory. Eligibility criteria, terms and conditions apply. Applications close 30 June 2017 or earlier if funding is exhausted. The recruits learn the ins and outs of the For more information on the loans and how to apply, visit horse. www.dpir.nt.gov.au/concessionalloans or phone (08) 8936 4089

Department of Agriculture and Water Resources

This programme is funded by the Australian Government and delivered by QRAA. 0341BF 11 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP NTCA’s 33rd Annual Industry Conference lives up to the promise to challenge, inform and inspire!

The NT Cattlemen’s Association’s Dinner were once again record- a host of first-rate Australian and 33rd annual industry conference breaking drawcards. international specialists in various at the Darwin Convention Centre aspects of the beef industry. An on 31st March attracted record In keeping with the NTCA’s invigorating panel session ably numbers and reinforced the status traditional promise for its annual driven by ABC Country Hour’s Carl of this major event as one of conferences to challenge, inform Curtain, featured key industry Australia’s premier agribusiness and inspire, this year’s event leaders and two former NT Chief conferences. presented world class keynote Ministers turned businessmen, speakers stimulating debate on Adam Giles and Paul Henderson. Some 550 Australian and overseas subjects ranging from foreign delegates registered for the full- investment in the north to the Delegates also witnessed two day conference which focused state-of-play with world beef historic events – the signing of on the theme of positioning the markets; changing food technology an MOU for Beef Plan North, a cattle industry for prosperity as it and trends; and where we sit strategic plan to drive the potential advanced towards unprecedented with major beef producer Brazil of the Northern beef industry, levels of innovation, demand and preparing to move into markets and presentation of the inaugural growth. that are vital to the Australian beef Alward Foster Memorial Award to sector. an emerging Indigenous pastoral Associated events including the Guest speakers included the leader and product of the NTCA’s ever popular Thursday NTCA & Minister for Northern Australia Matt Real Jobs Program, Stewart Foster Northern Stock Water Ladies’ Canavan, former Minister for Trade – who spoke of his and his family’s Lunch, the NTCA & Pioneer Water and Investment Andrew Robb, the pride in the honour. Tanks Welcome Drinks and the ever-popular Asian beef markets Friday night NTCA & AACo Gala consultant Dr Ross Ainsworth and

NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 12 PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS 2017: Prosperous times shadowed by risks for the NT cattle sector

Northern pastoral sector people lived in exciting times with prosperity and opportunity at an industry and enterprise level staring them in the face, NTCA President Tom Stockwell told the association’s 33rd annual industry conference. Addressing this year’s theme of Positioning for is the biggest threat to sustainability in the NT’s Prosperity, Tom Stockwell spoke of the past year’s rare north. confluence of good prices and good seasons which positioned the industry for a prosperous future at the The NT Economy: enterprise level, at least. • We can be proud of the cattle industry’s “At the industry and community level however, the year contribution to the NT economy both historically has been marked by many attacks on our prosperity,” and currently. Families and companies have $4.5 he said. “They’ve included uninformed decisions made billion dollars invested in raising beef cattle in the in the southern smoke without consultation...but our NT, and the industry directly earns $1bill. or more greatest risk is allowing these external distractions to per year, mostly from exports. cloud the attack on the productivity and sustainability • The dilemma of our time is if and how our industry of our land and people.” can co-exist with the unconventional shale gas The NTCA president said much time is taken up talking industry, presently the only left-field potential about issues other than cattle, the pastures they for balancing the NT books to some extent. For graze on, and the rain, water, sunlight and soil that the prosperity of all Territorians and Australians provide NT cattle breeders with their greatest natural we need to find a way of protecting our pastoral ‘Comparative Advantage’ which is the foundation stone resources and providing safe secure affordable of free trade. energy for industry, homes and transport, and “We must protect and enhance the ‘comparative doing something to get the NT off the national teat. advantages’ for our own and the greater good, marketing a safe product with integrity that’s desired Bush Communications: around the world. We must remember that this is all • Sustainability of the pastoral and bush community based on a biological system that is based on the top is under pressure from people from the lot-fed six inches of soil, rain, underground water, pasture, and inner suburbs of Sydney and that ilk, who tweet cows managed and husbanded by informed productive and podcast, message on mobile phones, and trip people with a plan that deals with today and the next on power, generation.” • After the BOM removed the Barkly weather radar services without consultation, the ACMA from the OTHER KEY INDUSTRY ISSUES middle of tried to make UHF linking repeaters illegal and suggested the same for 40 Animal Welfare & BIOSECURITY: other UHF channels. With the help from Senator • Australia’s major disease-free status is one of our Canavan and others, some sense has been seen at strongest competitive advantages and must be ACMA. protected at all costs. Protection from diseases • The Productivity Commission reckoned we such as FMD must remain an industry and didn’t need a USO for Landlines, the Fair Work government priority; importation of Buffalo meat Commission invents apps to spy on employers, the into Indonesia is a timely reminder of the need to WWF buys drones to spy on landholders, and NBN remain vigilant of real diseases potentially on our has a fair use policy restricting use in the bush but doorstep. can supply services to QANTAS. • We must ensure that animal husbandry practices, from the station to the processing facilities, are The ABC’s Shortwave Decision: humane, productive and efficient and continually • ABC Managing Director Guthrie and her three consider the animals’ welfare, health and mouseketeers at the senate enquiry, when being productivity. faced with the news at just how much their ABC management decision sucked, stated ‘let them Environmental Stewardship: download podcasts’. The new ABC chairman from • At a national and industry level we have been Balmain, complete with ‘elaborate rowing cuff links’ preoccupied for nearly two decades with the role of offers little succour as he states the importance of carbon dioxide in changing climate, and have spent enhancing digital services to millennials. billions “researching” it and legislating inefficient • A national broadcaster that does not broadcast industries out of efficient ones. local ABC radio to all Australians is not a national • The good news is that there is now monitoring broadcaster and the government can take the satellite technology about that shows how much money back and give it to someone who will. CO2 is circulating around the globe. We do not have a CO2 or climate change problem in north Australia – we have an Arboreal Obesity epidemic, which

13 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP SENATOR MATT CANAVAN: Urging common sense to capitalise on Northern Australia’s exciting future

Federal Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Senator Matt Canavan, officially opened the 33rd NTCA annual conference with a robust keynote address that highlighted many of the major issues currently confronting the Territory pastoral sector. Minister Canavan addressed the exciting compliance of above positives of developing the north, but also 99 per cent was stressed Australia’s urgent need to tap into energy something to be proud resources. of ”. Minister Canavan told the conference the He said northern Territory had a great resource in its 200 trillion development was cubic feet of gas, which would be enough to a national priority meet the region’s energy needs for hundreds for the Federal of years. Referring to the NT Government’s Government and fracking moratorium, he said he agreed that pinpointed the live development should not be allowed to damage export trade and other the environment, but believed potential agricultural ventures environmental impacts could be managed, as as critically important they had during Queensland’s 20-year experience to that development. with coal seam gas - with no major environmental “Developing Northern Australia is not a welfare issues to date. program. We’re here because we believe that “The key issue in this whole gas debate is the investing in the north will make money for the relationship between property owners and gas whole of Australia”. producers,” he said. “Gas producers wanting to He acknowledged the cattle industry’s vital role develop have to realise there must be a market in the north. “Our future will be in the north of and proper return back to land owners. If the country and you are at the centre of this,” he you have a well and have to give 24/7 access said. “For those who want to make a buck and be to strangers, you deserve a return on any gas involved in something exciting for our nation, on your properties. I don’t see a sustainable the Northern Territory is where it’s at and your way forward for developing gas in this country industry is at the centre of that.” unless we allow all people in the supply chain He said Northern Australia already punched to make a legitimate claim for a return from gas well above its weight, accounting for more than development on your land.” 50 percent of national exports and 12 percent of The Minister said he “unashamedly supported nation’s GDP - even though only six per cent of the live export trade and expanding into new the country’s population lived here. Much of this markets to help lift prices and profits for the contribution was generated from minerals but cattle industry. Australia made $1.8 billion from agriculture would be key future growth industry live export last year and the sector’s ESCAS for Northern Australia, he said. ADOLFO FONTES Rabobank A senior economist with Rabobank, Adolfo Fontes, spoke of Brazil’s re-emergence as a beef exporting nation expanding its Asian markets, after a past history of corruption, political scandals and economic downturn which saw many of its beef production plants closed and overseas markets lost. beef production will soon rise by about 300,000 Brazil also has a strong interest in South Korea and tonnes. Japan as it positions to capitalise on growing world demand for protein. He said Brazil could not currently compete with Australia which marketed premium chilled beef, but Brazil usurped Australia as China’s largest beef with improved genetics and productivity, that could supplier in 2016, its cattle prices have stayed stable change within the next decade. for the past four years and projections are that its NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 14 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP HON. ANDREW ROBB: A question of foreign investment Foreign investment will be critical to advancing Northern Australia’s future development, former Federal Minister for Trade, Andrew Robb told this year’s NTCA industry conference.

Mr Robb said the potential to develop water, land resources and leading edge technology in the north was enormous but would need a lot of money. “If Australia is to capitalise on opportunities and not be run past by other countries, we need to keep the fields of tropical health and medical research and doors open to foreign investment, sensibly done in anything tropical – be it architecture, design, water the national interest,” he said. management. We have the capacity as first world country, to continue to grasp at opportunities when He said significant recent foreign investment in see rest of tropics growing as a strong and quickly Northern Territory pastoral assets was sending a as it is. strong signal of confidence in the sector, and in “For this and many other reasons this is an the industry’s future. The region stood to benefit extraordinary period in our history and I don’t think enormously from building strong relationships in Australians properly appreciate that history and the Asian region and generating the flow of foreign what is going on. There’s a complacency around capital into the Australian economy, he said. much of Australia about the last quarter of century “Australia has the biggest tropical zone of any with uninterrupted economic development in this country in the world, with the tropics making up 45 country – the only developed country that’s in that percent of our total land mass. A million people lived situation.” in our tropics on 17 million hectares of arable soil “We have the chance now to set up this country for and 60 percent of all of Australia’s water falls in the centuries and it can be very exciting times ahead. It north. So you can see opportunities, not just for food will take a lot of hard work there’ll be but it is going and agriculture which is enormous, but also in the to be a great journey.”

Chief Minister Michael Gunner: Committed to making decisions in the NT’s best interests

Northern Territory Chief Minister innovators, job creators, business commitment on a fracking Michael Gunner has committed people and environmentalists. moratorium, while we wait for his government to pulling its There’s no questioning the our expert panel to deliver its weight with northern investment importance of your industry to the final report this year.” because, he says, this is what Territory’s prosperity, now and the Territory needs across all long into future”. He said depending on the industries, including the cattle inquiry’s recommendations, the industry. He described the cattle sector’s government would either ban people as a broad church with fracking completely or allow In his address to close the different views on different issues it to proceed under limited conference, Mr Gunner said his including onshore gas. circumstances. “I appreciate government would continue “My commitment to you, there’s lots of passion in this to work closely with the NT regardless of your views in this issue because there is potentially Cattlemen’s Association, saying important discussion, is we will so much to gain, but equally I the Territory was built on the develop and grow the Territory appreciate the fears about what herd’s back and the industry sustainably, responsibly and there is to lose. That’s why it’s would continue to shape its scientifically, we’ll consult so important to go through this future. widely and deeply and protect independent process and have “As a government, we value and our waterways and natural trust that the final decision is respect the cattle industry, whose environment - and that’s why made in the Territory’s best people are among the great we are honouring our election interests.”

15 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP DR PHIL HOLMES - Holmes & Company Dr Holmes is Principal of the and 2013 Northern Beef Reports. private North Australian-focussed consulting business, Holmes Dr Holmes drew on this & Company which provides extensive industry knowledge business, environmental and to share important messages on technical advice to northern ‘positioning for prosperity in a family owned beef businesses and cyclical business model – on how beef corporate entities. to climb the peaks and avoid too much time in the trough’. The agribusiness expert with his eye on the north has also co- authored the MLA-published 2009 JARROD PAYNE – Millward Brown Research psychologist, Jarrod future by understanding who its Payne, presented a fascinating customers will be. insight into how supply chains were changing as digital Consumers now increasingly technology transforms the way believe chicken, as opposed people interact with food. to beef, is the cheapest meat available. In a new future arena, He touched on emerging market beef could be competing for trends with revelations about attention against surprising food current and future consumer sources like insects, algae and behaviour, and urged the beef even synthetic products. industry to position for the

ANDREW SIMPSON – Meat & Livestock Australia

MLA’s Southern Asian only one Spanish company International Business Manager, was accredited to trade with Andrew Simpson, focussed on Indonesia and had a permit to political and practical constraints send only 2,000 tonnes a year. By and opportunities for marketing comparison, MLA figures show Australian red meat into South Australia exported 61 tonnes East Asia. of boxed beef and more than 600,000 live cattle (equivalent of He said industry concerns about 140,000 tonnes of boxed beef) to Spanish beef now entering Indonesia last year. Indonesian markets was unwarranted. He understood

DR ROSS AINSWORTH Jakarta-based Dr Ainsworth, A growing world demand for armed with his usual wealth of on- beef was dominated by Asia, with the-spot knowledge of Asian beef China presenting the biggest markets, gave a comprehensive growth opportunities in light expert overview of market and of predicted significant future consumer trends in the region consumer income growth. that’s one of the world’s most important economically, as well This new demand will require new as a significant customer for North production which means more Australian live cattle and beef. grazing land and higher prices.

NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 16 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP DAVID HARLAND – FINH Respected family business Succession is a time-honoured sector commentator David tradition, he said, but it often Harland addressed the topic presented the single biggest of transitioning to the next challenge to families and generation, sharing his invaluable businesses. insight into how pastoral families can successfully navigate the inescapable and often-sensitive process of handing over the reins to the next generation.

JARROD PAYNE – Millward Brown HON. KEN VOWLES NT Minister For Primary Industry and Resources Minister Vowles reinforced to improve productivity on the importance of Australian Territory stations. It was agriculture’s reputation as a only through innovation and supplier of clean, disease-free increased efficiency, he said, and environmentally responsible that the Territory could stay produce overseas, saying ahead of rising production costs. biosecurity was one of the He acknowledged the cattle government’s key responsibilities industry’s role in achieving and one that it would continue to productivity advances and said he manage with maximum rigour. appreciated how innovative and He also reinforced the efficient Territory producers must government’s commitment be to manage their huge stations to research and innovation sustainably and profitably.

The Pioneer Pub a hit at the Welcome Drinks once again! The Pioneer Pub was once over the picturesque Darwin again the centrepiece of the Waterfront precinct. NTCA Pioneer Water Tanks Welcome Drinks, where About 300 rolled up for the delegates, sponsors and NTCA welcome drinks at the Pioneer DR ROSS AINSWORTH members enjoyed catching Pub outside the Convention up with friends old and new Centre just in time to watch a over a cold beer while looking spectacular Darwin sunset.

Left: The hard-working team from Pioneer Tanks who spent most of the day assembling the much-loved Pioneer Pub; Jaren Wilson, Daniel Wyatt, Phil Mayne, Jack Russell.

Right: Hugh Nivison (Australian Farmers’ Fighting Fund) & NTCA President, Tom Stockwell.

17 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Getting down to business at the AGM The NTCA Annual General Meeting was held prior to the conference and saw members work through a solid agenda of current and emerging industry issues. The meeting welcomed CCA president Howard new and returning NTCA Branch members for Smith and CEO Duncan Bremner who addressed 2017/18: members on a range of relevant industry matters, including questions over the industry’s Alice Springs Branch: strategy for tackling Bovine Johne’s Disease Anne Stanes (Chair) (BJD) in Australia. Animal Health Australia Stewart Weir (Deputy Chair) (AHA) manages the National Johne’s Disease Nicole Hayes (Alternate) Project (NJDP), a cooperative initiative of the Barkly Branch: country’s livestock industries, governments and Michael Johnson (Chair) veterinarians. Marty Doyle (Deputy Chair) Katherine Warby (Alternate) The election of office bearers resulted in the Katherine Branch: NTCA’s hard-working president Tom Stockwell Jak Andrews (Chair) being voted in unopposed for his third and final Justin Dyer (Deputy Chair) year in the top job. Rohan Sullivan and Markus Russel Richter (Alternate) Rathsmann were re-elected as representatives of Top End Branch: the National Farmers Federation (NFF) and Cattle Tony Hayne (Chair) Council of Australia (CCA) respectively. Colin Deveraux (Deputy Chair) The meeting also endorsed the election of Sam McBean (Alternate) Ladies Lunch hailed a huge success! A tantalising day of champagne, Griggs was guest speaker and their life. boutique browsing and a talked about the highlights and magnificent lunch awaited 120 challenges throughout her career, “An interactive Q&A session at rural women who gathered on the and her role as board member of the end of Johanna’s talk showed sky bridge at Darwin Waterfront Beyond Blue. that the stigma and walls around to begin their annual NTCA & Ladies’ Day coordinator Carley mental health are really being Northern Stock Water Ladies Bidstrup said Johanna presented broken down. It was encouraging Lunch. a vital message as well as some to hear 120 women in a room The day got underway at 9am strategies and tools available for having an open conversation with the ladies being split into pastoral industry women to use if about the topic of mental health four groups for two rotations - one supporting family, staff or friends and helping each other with to local businesses and boutiques through challenging times. strategies to tackle issues.” including Paspaley Pearls, the “It was important because women Carley said all ladies thoroughly trendy Star Village, and Smith on the stations are always the first enjoyed their special day St West neighbours, Sekada point of call for health issues, so it in the city, which attracted Homewares and Raw Cloth was really helpful to learn about overwhelming support from local boutique. The other took in the resources and support available if business including day spas, hair Aboriginal Bush Traders gallery you’re trying to help someone, or and beauty salons, and boutiques, and café in historic Lyons Cottage, notice signs that someone could which offered discount vouchers where they were treated to bush need a hand with something in for their products and services. tucker samplings and a delightful high tea.

The rounds of town culminated in an indulgent four-course shared menu lunch at the beautifully- decorated Wharf One Food and Wine on the Darwin Waterfront’s restaurant precinct. Television personality and former Champagne and Paspaley Pearls for some Debbie Becker (CBA), Georgie Chisholm champion swimmer Johanna of the ladies. (NAB), Janet Chisholm (Napperby), Johanna NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 18 Griggs, and Sarah McMaster (CBA). NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Feather boas and flapper frocks regale another sell-out NTCA & AACo Gala Dinner!

The joyous grand finale to the NTCA Life Membership for his 33rd NTCA annual industry outstanding contribution to the conference was the annual NTCA association and pastoral industry & AACo Gala Dinner - and this in general. year’s “Great Gatsby” theme And rural industry business inspired the expected abundance identity Shaun Coutts was of colourful feathers and flapper awarded the NTCA Life Members’ dresses and dapper suits among Medal in recognition of his the 550 guests who packed the enduring dedication to the NTCA waterfront venue. and the Territory cattle industry. Shaun was presented with his As well as winding down and medal by another industry getting into the spirit and stalwart, Henry Burke, who conviviality of the occasion, himself was warmly applauded by guests got to celebrate the efforts the huge crowd for his impressive of two respected achievers in the 37 years of service to AACo and northern cattle sector. Long-time the northern cattle industry, Northern Territory cattleman and much of it spent managing the NTCA member and supporter sprawling Brunette Downs Station Allan Andrews was awarded on the Barkly Tablelands. Sarah-Jane McBean (Ruby Downs) and Charlotte Boyer.

Ros & Allan Andrews (NTCA Life Member) and NTCA President Tom Shaun Coutts accepts his NTCA Life Member Medal. Stockwell.

Kerrie Scott (Mountain Valley), Kayla Kurnof (CDU) and Julie Richter The Gala Dinner was themed ‘Great Gatsby’ and the crowd did not (VRD) disappoint with many people making the extra effort to dress to the theme. 19 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP NTCA and PUMA Energy Photography Competition The Territory pastoral sector’s talented ‘shutter bugs’ captivated hundreds of conference goers with another strong response to the NTCA-Puma Energy Photography Competition.

With so many high quality entries submitted in each category, competition judge, ABC Television journalist Kristy O’Brien, found herself in the challenging predicament of having to select just a handful of winners. The champion entries were:

• Portrait category: Ashley Severin (Curtin Springs) for his image WINNER: People’s Choice Award - ‘A Well Earned Drink’, by Alison titled Lyndee Severin Haines. • NT Landscape category: Ross Staines (Lyndavale) for his work titled Wildfire Wildflowers • Industry at Work or Play Category: Paddy Weir (Allambi) for Counting the Camels • People’ Choice: Alison Haines (CDU Katherine) for A Well Earned Drink

WINNER: Industry at Work or Play WINNER: NT Landscape - ‘Wildfire Wildflowers’, WINNER: Portrait - ‘Lyndee Severin’, by Ashley - ‘Counting the Camels’, by Paddy by Ross Stanes. Severin. Weir. MLA and media reps tour Top End facilities The bus tour, led met by Port Management Group by the NTCA’s Kylie head, Terry O’Connor, and Gracey, departed taken on a tour of the operating the Darwin deck which houses high-tech Waterfront at 1pm equipment including screens for its first stop showing all shipping channels at AACo’s $100 and their different water depths million Livingstone on route to the port. Beef processing facility 50 km Participants also did a lap of Steven Chaur (MLA) , Peter Dundon (MLA) , Kylie Gracey (NTCA) from Darwin. Darwin’s ever expanding East and Geoff Maynard (MLA). The company’s Arm port precinct and loading Visiting MLA representatives and Northern Supply Manager Steve facilities and learnt about a group of local and interstate Pocock was on hand to provide the day-to-day operations media people got to see the a comprehensive overview of associated with cattle handling inner workings of two major operations at this impressive and loading. Top End facilities of critical facility, and show guests the importance to the cattle sector working operations from the The bus returned its occupants during a four-hour industry viewing deck. back to the Darwin Convention tour offered as part of the 2017 From there, the party travelled Centre just in time for welcome conference program. to Darwin Port where they were drinks at the Pioneer Pub! NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 20 NTCA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Inaugural Alward Foster Memorial Award recognises emerging indigenous pastoral leader Northern Territory-trained near . responsibilities, culture and stockman Stewart Foster, praised working in a non-Indigenous as one of the leading lights of NT Primary Industry Minister Ken environment very well and the NTCA’s Real Jobs Program, Vowles presented Stewart with his without hassle.” became the inaugural winner of award and said he was honoured a major leadership award during to recognise an emerging leader NTCA chief executive Tracey Hayes the 2017 industry conference. who espoused the attributes of said the association was delighted the pioneering Indigenous stock that a role model such as Stewart Stewart, 22, was presented with workers and their contribution the is the first winner of this award. a magnificent new riding saddle Territory pastoral sector. “Indigenous people played a as winner of the Alward Foster “Stewart has shown great talent key role in opening the Northern Memorial Emerging Indigenous and leadership in his career thus Territory to pastoralists and we Pastoral Leader Award. He far and is an inspiration and want to attract more Aboriginal thanked the NTCA for putting this mentor to other young Indigenous stockmen and women back to the special award together and said men and women coming up industry,” she said. receiving the honour meant a lot through the pastoral industry,” he to him and his family. said. “I’m sure he will continue on to achieve great things in the Stewart took part in the Pastoral future.” Real Jobs Program, which is supported by the Cattlemen’s Morstone Downs managers Association, the Central Land Ian and Kerrie Fletcher, have Council and National Indigenous described Stewart as “a bright Pastoral Enterprises. talented gentleman with a He worked at Manbulloo Station great work ethic”, “a great near Katherine and Auvergne near role model for the younger Timber Creek before becoming generation” and “an independent man who balances his family Stewart Foster - the proud owner of a leading hand at Morstone Downs brand new saddle (donated by the Warriner family). New Future NTCA starters for 2017 Award honours The names of nine passionate new starters from stations and a natural born organisations across the Territory have been added to the innovative leader Future NTCA group for 2017. The nine, nominated through their respective regional NTCA branches, include: The new award is named after the late Alward Foster, who From Katherine: Tegan Dunn, Fiona Plunkett and Kayla Kurnof all joined the NTCA’s Pastoral Real from CDU Katherine Jobs Program as an employee on Newry Station on the West Australian border and later From the Barkly: Rachael Connell from AACo’s Brunette Downs became a full-time NTCA staff Station and Max Davis from Beetaloo Station. member. His job was to train, mentor From the Top End: Will Schmidt from Livingstone Beef (AACo), and support young Indigenous Matt Deveraux from Taminmin College, Victoria Dakin from people in the Real Jobs Koolpinyah Station, and Hamish Shannon from NACC. Program and Indonesian students from the NTCA Future NTCA was established in 2014 to foster and develop Indonesian Australia Pastoral leadership skills within the Territory beef industry’s next generation Program. of leaders. It has already involved a diverse group of young Territorians with a wide range of backgrounds and skills, all aspiring Alward was a natural born leader, who once went to Canberra and showed then years, the program has been successful in optimising the potential of Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, theto contribute industry’s to youth; strengthening capturing the new pastoral ideas, networking industry. In and its firstinjecting three how to crack a stockwhip. renewed enthusiasm. 21 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 Thank you to the sponsors of the NTCA Annual Industry Conference & the Gala Dinner - the NTCA would not be able to provide such high quality events without the support of our loyal and generous sponsors.

NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 22 Department of Agriculture and Water Resources

23 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 Q Fever in the Northern Territory You are invited to take part minutes. the inflammation of the heart in a research study about The study is confidential and and people with heart valve the awareness amongst you cannot be identified from disease are at an increased Australian dairy and beef your responses. The survey risk. Some people develop cattle farmers about the closes on the 30th of June, 2017. chronic fatigue (post-Q fever knowledge, attitudes and Link: https://www. fatigue syndrome), which can practices of Australian dairy surveymonkey.com/r/NTBeefQF last for many years after the and beef cattle farmers initial infection. regarding Q fever. Q Fever is an illness spread to A vaccine (Q-Vax®) is available humans through interaction to protect people against The findings from this study with infected animals such as Q fever. Vaccination is will help identify areas for sheep and cattle. It has flu-like recommended for all people further research and assist symptoms including severe who are working in, or in developing supplementary headaches, sweats and muscle intend to work in, a high-risk material for dairy and beef and joint aches. The bacteria occupation – such as abattoir, cattle producers. is shed through urine, faeces farming or veterinary care. or milk. Acute Q Fever can Participation will involve cause a severe flu-like illness completing an anonymous that is sometimes associated online questionnaire which with hepatitis and pneumonia. should take no longer than 20 Chronic Q Fever can result in WE BUY DONKEYS! WE MUSTER AND TRAP DONKEYS, OR YOU MUSTER AND TRAP AND WE PAY FOR IT!

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NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017 24 CEO flies to China for supply chain talks NTCA’s CEO Tracey Hayes flew to China in December to continue the Association’s work in developing a supply chain into the Rizhao city region and shoring up key relationships with Darwin Port lessee Landbridge and other regional stakeholders.

The trip followed the high-level visit to Canberra by the Chinese Premier and other delegates to announce the tripling of access to meat and beef markets in China.

The Chinese delegates flew into Darwin after the Canberra visit and were hosted by the NTCA on a Above: Tracey Hayes (NTCA CEO) with the Chinese contingent. supply chain tour that included inspecting a set of export cattle yards, watching cattle being drafted and a livestock truck being loaded, and learning about the use of traceability programs and industry controls in place in Australia.

The delegates also toured AACo’s state-of-the-art Livingstone Beef meat processing plant south of Darwin, and toured live cattle and processed beef- handling facilities at Darwin Port.

Right: Don McGauchie (AACo), Henry Burke (AACo), Mr Ye Cheng (Chairman of Landbridge Group) and Dr Qi Jianbin (Mayor of Rizhao Municipal Govt’) at the Livingstone processing facility. Indonesia’s changed live trade rules making life easier for cattlemen

The NTCA has welcomed the cattle from 350kg to 450kg and doing survey work to capture what significant progress being made implementing annual permit the impacts might be in markets by high level working groups allocations in place of the previous supplied by Australia. negotiating for supply chain trimester arrangement. “Political concerns have emerged outcomes that will satisfy beef “We’re very happy with these over the buffalo imports and risk of producers and traders in both changes which allows our members foot and mouth disease. There have Indonesia and Australia. greater certainty in planning and been constitutional challenges and preparation for the year ahead, and court cases in Indonesia, and the The working groups include an outlet for animals that became Indian Government has also now key representatives from CPC, unacceptable for the trade because put restrictions in place regarding Livecorp, ALEC exporters and of the 350 kg limit,” CEO Tracey the export of buffalo meat from the Australian Government Hayes says. “At the Indonesian that country.” she said. who’ve been working with the end, it gives them access to a Trade Minister to help iron out greater pool of cattle from which to issues that have concerned cattle fill their orders.” producers and other industry players. Tracey said there’d also been much discussion in the Indonesia media Those outcomes have included about Indian buffalo imports Indonesia agreeing to lift the into the country and the impact weight ceiling for imported live on meat prices. MLA has been

SECRETARIAT ALICE SPRINGS BRANCH NORTHERN Suite 9 1st Floor Raffles Plaza Bohning Yards Complex TERRITORY 1 Buffalo Crt Darwin NT 0800 South Stuart Highway GPO Box 4845 Darwin NT 0801 GPO Box 2288 Alice Springs NT 0871 CATTLEMEN’S Phone: (08) 8981 5976 Phone: 0488 955 550 Fax: 08 8981 9527 Fax: (08) 8953 4260 ASSOCIATION Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

25 NTCA Cattlenews - May 2017