Get set for MeatUp & BeefUp 2023

The annual Meat & Livestock Australia’s (MLA) MeatUp and BeefUp forum dates have been announced with 10 events to be held across the country during 2023.

Whether it’s taking your sheep enterprise to new levels, or learning from other beef producers, the events will help producers learn and connect with others in the red meat industry.

MeatUp

Held predominantly throughout southern Australia, these forums introduce producers to the outcomes of MLA research and development projects and the next steps to drive profitability and productivity on-farm.

MeatUp events 2023 will be held at Wudinna (SA), Albany (WA), Bourke (NSW), Tamworth (NSW) and Cowra (NSW).

MeatUp takes enterprise to next level

The last-minute decision to attend a MeatUp forum proved to be a smart one for South Australian producer Karl Zerner, who used the knowledge he gained from the event to guide his flock rebuild.

Karl runs a 1,000-head self-replacing Merino ewe flock across three properties near Eudunda – he attended the Gawler MeatUp forum in March 2021.

“It was an engaging event and I really enjoyed having the ability to pick sessions that were of interest to me and my business,” Karl said.

“The day was brilliant for networking and kickstarting discussions with other producers on topics that were covered.”

The MeatUp forum prompted Karl to make several changes on-farm that have increased animal welfare outcomes, increased lamb survival and therefore increased profit.

“Since attending the event I’ve started using Numnuts (pain relief for lamb marking) and purchased a grain trail feeder to feed ewes prior to and three weeks into lambing.

“I’ve also ceased my crossbred operation and gone into full Merino to increase the number of younger ewes in the flock.”

Karl has also focused on using electronic identification (eID) to scan ewes for single and multiple pregnancies and build the amount of data collected for their flock.

“I was also able to find further information on how to fill my knowledge gaps and I’ve gone on to complete a Lifetime Ewe Management course and accessed funding through the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Regions Red Meat and Wool Growth Program to implement EID technology within our business.

“I’d highly recommend going to a MeatUp forum – you’ll get a lot out of it and learn where our industry is going in the future and how to take your livestock operation to the next level.”

BeefUp

BeefUp forums provide an opportunity for northern Australian beef producers to stay up-to-date with the latest on-farm research and technologies and meet others working in the red meat industry.

BeefUp events 2023 will be held in Broome (WA), Kununurra (WA), Barkly (NT), Alice Springs (NT), Taroom (QLD) and Hughenden (QLD).

BeefUp’s regional focus drives innovation

Queensland producer Robyn Adams saw the value of networking when she attended a recent MLA BeefUp forum in Blackall.

“The local community are involved in the planning process for each event so BeefUp forums have a real regional focus with tailored information and presenters,” Robyn said.

“This is your industry event where you have the opportunity to learn something new – and I encourage producers to attend to have their say on what topics should be considered for future events.”

As well as presentations from experts, BeefUp forums provide the opportunity to network with other producers, MLA staff and livestock advisors.

“Networking with the breadth of experience in the room helps to refine your ideas and work out where you want your beef business to go,” Robyn said.

“The topics in the presentations kickstart robust and insightful discussion amongst the group.”

The events are also intergenerational, bringing a breadth of ideas and experiences.

“At our event we had a range of producers from big corporates through to smaller operations, so you get a variety of opinions in a short amount of time.

“The discussions are forward thinking and optimistic because there are enough open-minded people in the room so there is always someone ahead of you to ask questions and further your beef operation.

“The seasons are turning and we have a lot of options here – the BeefUp forums in 2023 will be a great way to progress your beef business and make the most of the strong seasonal and market conditions.”