Act On Beef Careers

ACT ON BEEF CAREERS

MAY 2024

BEST ADVICE FROM LEADERS IN THE BEEF INDUSTRY

8 REASONS TO WORK IN THE BEEF INDUSTRY

ADVENTURE AHEAD WITH MARK PEART

LEADING INNOVATION IN THE FEEDLOT SECTOR TIMOTHY BRENNAN

FROM PASSION TO IMPACT: JAKE PHILLIPS’ REWARDING CAREER IN BEEF INDUSTRY

FROM MT COOLON TO FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP: KATE DRURY’S PATH IN THE BEEF INDUSTRY

FROM DREAMS TO REALITY: ZEKE BENNETT’S JOURNEY TO ZELE ANGUS

FROM RURAL ROOTS TO RED MEAT SPECIALIST: XAVIER MCCLUSKEY

EMILY MCNAIR PIONEERING GENETIC INNOVATION IN THE BEEF INDUSTRY

WELCOME CONTENT

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Act On magazine by Build Your Beef Future. This publication draws inspiration from the impactful words of the late Graeme Acton, who once said, “I guess I don’t have too many small dreams.” The stories presented here illustrate various paths into the beef industry, each unique but sharing common themes of pursuing dreams, working diligently, finding supportive mentors, and striving for a purpose beyond oneself.

Allow me to share my own story of how I, someone who grew up in the city, found a passion for the beef industry. Despite my urban upbringing, my interest in agriculture and animals sparked a desire to explore the world of beef production. Through attending junior shows across Australia and building connections within the industry, I began to understand the intricacies of cattle breeding and genetics.

Over time, my passion grew, leading me to establish my own Limousin cattle stud. Now, as a genetics consultant, I work closely with livestock producers to help them optimise their breeding programs and improve their livestock systems. My journey in the beef industry has been rewarding, filled with challenges and opportunities for growth.

My hope is that the narratives within this magazine, including my own, will encourage you to act on the opportunities presented and take a bold step into a fulfilling career in agriculture and the beef industry. As you immerse yourself in these stories, you’ll discover that a career in the beef sector can offer an exceptional journey filled with challenges, learning, travel, friendship, purpose, livestock, nature, and adventure— elements that contribute to a life well-lived. Let these stories fuel your passion and motivate you to take action and embrace a career in the beef industry.

Phoebe Eckermann

Mark Peart’s journey began in the rural landscapes of Central and Western Queensland, where he was raised on cattle and sheep properties. His father managed these properties, which instilled in Mark a deep connection to the land and a strong work ethic. He attended boarding school in Toowoomba before heading to Gatton Ag (now known as Queensland University) to study for a Diploma in Farm Management. However, after a year, Mark deferred his studies to take up work as a ringer at Delamere Station in the Northern Territory.

THE INSPIRING CAREER OF ADVENTURE AHEAD MARK PEART

While at Delamere, Mark’s life took a pivotal turn. He found himself sitting on a horse, surrounded by Aboriginal stockmen, watching helicopter pilots mustering. The head stockman mentioned that these helicopter pilots were earning over four times more than Mark was making in his current job, which required him to work in challenging conditions. This revelation sparked a change in Mark’s career aspirations.

Inspired by these pilots and a childhood interest in flying, Mark decided to pursue a career in aviation. He enrolled in flight school and obtained his helicopter pilot’s license in 1988. He then secured a job as a junior pilot at Delamere, a position he held until 2008. During this time, he gained valuable experience and knowledge about the land and the unique challenges

faced by farmers and pastoralists.

Despite his passion for flying and successful career as a helicopter pilot, Mark felt a calling to do something different with his life. He wanted to make a more significant impact on the world and sought a new direction. This led him to sell his contracting businesses and delve into property development, experiencing both financial success and setbacks.

In 2008, Mark transitioned to working as a pilot for Midfield Meats. While working there, he pursued an MBA at Deakin University. It was during this time that he encountered the term “ag tech” and recognised the potential for technology to transform the agricultural industry. Mark could see how technology was distributing the rest of society however, it was clear

that this distribution was around social media and smartphones giving us entertainment & convenience. He saw an opportunity to leverage technology to improve sustainable food production and address the challenges faced by farmers.

Along the way Mark also established his own aviation business, Light Jets Australia, which focused on providing corporate jet services for agricultural businesses and the meat sector. His true passion, however, lay in addressing challenges in the agriculture industry.

“How could I build a business in extensive ag?” Mark wondered. Mark’s father had done some work in water supplementing. Mark still saw a need for improvement in supplementation and sought to develop innovative solutions. In 2016, Mark founded DIT Tech-

nologies Australia, focusing on modernising water supplementation processes. “It was still the same process similar to that 10,000 years ago,” he observed. “We’re still doing it the same way—there’s got to be a better way.” His company has since grown to employ 50 professionals, including software developers, hardware engineers, and nutritionists.

Mark’s vision and leadership have propelled DIT Technologies to work on projects in the methane space and carbon registration, among others. His journey highlights the challenges and opportunities in building a tech business in the agricultural sector. “It’s really hard,” Mark admits. “The easy part is the idea. The hard part is employing the people, keeping the people, raising the capital, finding customers, scaling, finances, growing more customers, and corpo-

rate structures.”

Mark believes the opportunities in ag tech for young people are vast and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace challenges and learn from failures. “The best lessons of life are in those failures,” he explains. “You will develop vision through hard times—you need to embrace hard times—learn, fine-tune what you’re doing every single day. Get back up again and keep going—that’s tough.”

Technology is the key to transforming agriculture, and Mark believes that people of all ages should take the leap into ag-tech businesses. Young people bring fresh perspectives that can revolutionise the industry. Mark would love to see more middle-aged people start businesses – people with a wealth of experience that understand the world completely dif-

ferently. As Mark says to his team ‘his eyesight is fading every day, but my vision gets stronger every day too’. Mark is grateful to be pursuing his passion for agriculture and innovation, and he finds joy in doing something challenging and unique every day. This drive is what keeps him motivated to continue making a difference in the industry he loves.

As Mark continues to push the boundaries of ag tech, his story serves as an inspiration to those who seek to innovate and leave a lasting impact on the world of agriculture. Throughout his career, Mark has demonstrated resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a positive change in the industry he loves. His story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the importance of pursuing meaningful work.

TIMOTHY BRENNAN TIMOTHY’S PATHWAY

Leading Innovation in the Feedlot Sector

WHAT’S YOUR CAREER?

Timothy works in the Lot Feeding sector for NH Foods - a vertically integrated beef production and processing company. Through his role as Feedlot Livestock Manager, he oversees the livestock operation of NH Food’s 75,000 head feedlot Whyalla Beef, located near Texas on the Queensland border. As the Livestock Manager, Tim leads the dayto-day livestock activities of the feedlot to ensure the company provides animals with the best possible care ultimately resulting in the production of the highest quality beef. Tim takes enjoyment out of leadership, and seeing his team develop and deepen their roots in as he describes “our great industry”. His passion, and leadership has been acknowledged by the industry as he was named the 2023 Australian Lot Feeders’ Association Young Lot Feeder of the Year.

“Wherever you end up lot feeding, backgrounding, breeding or trading, you will be contributing to the expanding industry having an impact over millions of people.”

WHY CHOOSE THE BEEF INDUSTRY?

Timothy acknowledges his up bringing as having a significant impact on why he’s chosen a career in the Beef industry – as a fifth-generation beef producer he says “agriculture was an easy choice.”

He also admits that at the beginning he didn’t know a lot about lot feeding and fell into his role. However, looking back now the eye-opening experience has been life changing and he is happy he took the plunge.

Industry diversity is a topic that excites Timothy – and he thinks areas of technology and sustainability will drive the future success of the beef

Grew up on his families’ property North of Toowoomba in the Darling Downs - a 5th generation farming family. 01

industry as a major supplier of domestic and global protein. What an exciting future to be involved in!

Timothy’s story demonstrates the importance of building networks, taking opportunities, and being willing to learn.

If you’re looking to have a meaningful career, then the beef industry is for you. As Tim says, “wherever you end up lot feeding, backgrounding, breeding or trading, you will be contributing to the expanding industry having an impact over millions of people” and now is the time for you to give it a go.

Spent his childhood and teenager years, working with his brothers’ mustering cattle, fixing fences, and managing vegetation on his families’ properties. 02

After completion of his studies Timothy used connections, he had with NH foods and landed himself a graduate position in 2019. 05

NH Foods graduate position - Tim rotated through the livestock operation of the feedlot and grew in experience. Soon after, opportunities arose for Tim to step into more senior positions. 06 Today Timothy is the Feedlot Livestock Manager at NH Foods - Whyalla Beef. During his time with NH Food Tim has had the opportunity to be exposed to many leadership courses and management programs; with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation being the most influential of programs.

Whilst studying Tim worked part time managing his family’s farming operations and soon decided to 04

After completing high school Timothy begun studying Business and Commerce at the University of Southern Queensland. 03

“No career is made on merit, rather earned with hard work; So, if you come with a mindset to learn, to work hard, and to be patient, the beef sector will provide you a meaningful and successful career.”

Timothy Brennan Feedlot Livestock Manager Whyalla Beef

BUILD

YOUR BEFF FUTURE’S

ADVICE ALONG THE WAY

Each interviewee we’ve asked the same question “What’s your best advice for young people embarking on their beef career?” and here’s what they had to say ....

“Don’t think you don’t bring any value to the table. Show up and be involved.”

Kate Drury Agribusiness District Manager Western QLD Suncorp Bank

“Back yourself or nobody else will”

Emily McNair Breeding and Genetics Advisor Australian Agricultural Company

“Live your life on your own terms, and not in the shadows of other people’s fearsthat are often imposed onto you because of their own self-limitations.”

Zeke Bennett Zele Angus

“Leave the Jersey in a better place. This is an old All Blacks saying. To me it means this is your time to shine and your time to contribute. Make sure you pay back and pay forward the fortune you have had. Nothing needs to be forever, such as volunteering or some jobs, but make sure when you have done your part you leave it in a better place for the next generation.”

Jake Phillips Extension Manager Angus Australia

“Gain as much practical experience as possible. This can be achieved through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering on farms. Gaining an understanding of the start of the supply chain will make it a lot easier to develop a broader understanding of the industry as a whole further on in your career. ”

Xavier McCluskey Processing Specialist at Greenstock

“There’s’ big opportunities for young people in ag tech if they want to have a crack at it. You need to be passionate - life and the universe will wear you down. If you have a genuine desire to do something that’s useful and impactful agriculture is a great place to fulfill those desires and being able to work”

Mark Peart CEO DIT AgTech

Meet Jake Phillips: an individual who proves that a city-born kid can turn a passion into a purposeful career in the beef industry. As the Extension Manager at Angus Australia, Jake’s role encompasses a wide array of responsibilities aimed at fostering education, engagement, and youth activities within the organisation.

With a keen eye on the board’s strategic plan, Jake actively engages with members, provides educational opportunities, and oversees a diverse range of scholarships, awards, bursaries, and professional development programs tailored for the younger generation. His personal mission is to empower Angus cattle breeders to boost revenue, cut costs, and improve both human and animal welfare.

WHY CHOOSE THE BEEF INDUSTRY?

But what drives Jake’s unwavering commitment to the beef industry? Simply put, he wonders, “Why would you want to do anything else?” For Jake, one of the industry’s most enticing aspects is the opportunity to travel the globe. Recently, he embarked on a 6-week study tour of North America as the recipient of the 2023 Arthur Rickards Young Breed Leaders award. During his travels, Jake organised his own tour, delving into innovative strategies to integrate first-generation farmers into the industry and enhance seedstock production practices.

Yet, it’s not just about the thrill of exploration for Jake. He recognises the profound impact his work has on a global scale, as each contribution he makes plays a part in producing nutritious meals for the world. With a career anchored in purpose and meaningful impact, Jake finds his work in the beef industry to be undeniably rewarding. Reflecting on his journey, Jake is immensely grateful for the opportunity to have pursued his passion despite his urban upbringing. With the support of a nurturing mentorship network, he has carved out a career path that not only fulfills him but also leaves a legacy for future generations—a legacy of positive change and advancement within the beef industry. WHAT’S YOUR CAREER?

Studied a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Adelaide. While studying he competed at the South Australian Junior Heifer Expo & in 2008 won the Senior Champion Herdsperson title leading to a 4-month working experience across beef ranches in the USA in 2009. 03

Jake grew up in Adelaide, South Australia & as a child was exposed to rural lifestyles and pastoral stations which gave him an interest in agriculture. 01 He attended Urrbrae Agricultural High School a 100-acre working farm and secondary school just a few minutes from the Adelaide CBD. Here he was introduced to showing cattle, breeding cattle and the broader cattle industry – which quickly turned into an obsession with the beef industry. 02

Eight-year career with Teys Australia based in Naracoorte, SA. 5 years as a cattle buyer for processing and feed lotting operations before being promoted to Branded Beef supply chain management, QA Management and on the Senior Leadership Team.

In 2021 Jake commenced his journey with Angus Australia initially in Breed Development and more recently as the Extension Manager. 07 Outside of his career Jake has maintained voluntary roles on the committee of the South Australia Junior Heifer Expo as well as the Southern Grass-fed Carcase Classic competition. Along with his wife Emma the pair volunteer time teaching the next generation of school students about preparing steers for the show with aspects of

He then spent four years at Meat Standards Australia as a Trade Development Officer based in Brisbane QLD, servicing much of the Beef processing industry across QLD, NSW, and SA. This was a turning point in Jake’s career where he was able to take confidence that everyone in the beef industry is a part of the food industry. Seeing that every dollar the industry has comes from consumers putting their hands in their pockets to buy beef.

NSW.

and

Jake’s career started out by casual work on local farms but became more professional in nature quickly starting at the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI) working in BREEDPLAN in Armidale

Meet Kate Drury, the Agribusiness District Manager for the Western Queensland region at Suncorp Bank, whose journey from the vast plains of Mt Coolon to the bustling financial hubs is a testament to dedication, networking, and unwavering commitment.

Growing up amidst the rugged beauty of a cattle station in the Mt Coolon district, west of Nebo, Kate was immersed in the world of beef breeding from an early age. Distance education laid the groundwork for academic pursuits, followed by a pivotal gap year spent jillarooing on her families and surrounding properties. This hands-on experience not only solidified Kate’s passion for the industry but also provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of agricultural operations.

After completing a Bachelor of Economics at the University of Queensland, Kate embarked on a career journey with Suncorp Bank, starting as an Agribusiness Graduate. Through rotations and persistent dedication, Kate transitioned from an Assistant Bank Manager in St George to a Senior Relationship Manager in Roma, eventually ascending to the role of Western QLD District Manager. This trajectory, underscored by a deep connection to primary production through family-owned cattle operations, exemplifies Kate’s

FROM MT COOLON TO FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP

KATE DRURY’S

holistic understanding of the beef industry.

Kate is also actively involved in fostering the next generation of beef leaders. Serving on Beef Australia’s Next Gen Committee and participating in panel discussions at the 22’ Women in Ag event held in Toowoomba and other representative roles. For Kate the beef industry isn’t just a profession; it’s a platform for empowerment, education, and collective growth. When asked about the allure of the beef industry, Kate emphasises its multifaceted nature and abundance of opportunities. From the flexibility of roles to the enduring work ethic ingrained in agricultural traditions, the industry resonates deeply with Kate’s personal and professional aspirations. It’s a space where passion meets purpose an industry where she believes every individual, regardless of background or experience, can contribute meaningfully.

FROM DREAMS TO REALITY:

ZEKE BENNETT’S

Journey to Zele Angus

Zeke Bennett, a 32-year-old entrepreneur and owner of Zele Angus, is making his mark in the beef industry with his dedication to breeding high-quality stud Angus bulls in Gippsland, Victoria.

Operating his business from a 140-acre farm, supplemented by a leased 100acre property nearby, Zeke’s primary focus is on catering to the local market’s demand for premium Angus bulls. He also views his female cattle as valuable assets with potential for future growth, supporting his long-term goals of expanding his seedstock herd to produce more bulls.

Zeke’s journey to becoming a successful farmer began with a lifelong dream of owning his own farm. At 21, he co-founded a garden maintenance business in Sydney with his partner. Starting with modest resources out of the back of his Holden Commodore with a rake, 2 buckets and a pair of secateurs the venture grew into Sydney’s premier landscape and maintenance company, employing over 28 staff members. This early entrepreneurial experience laid the groundwork for Zeke to achieve his goal of acquiring his first farm at the age of 29.

Recognising the importance of entering the property market at a young age, Zeke purchased an affordable residential block of land in country Victoria when he was 21. This strategic move set the stage for his future endeavours. Once he had achieved his goal of

farm ownership, Zeke quickly discovered his passion for raising purebred Angus cattle.

Zeke started his farm with a herd of Angus Performance Register (APR) Pure Angus cows and calves. Eighteen months later, he expanded his operations to include Herd Book Register (HBR) (the highest level of seedstock recording provided by Angus Australia) cattle, acquiring additional cows and calves to further diversify his breeding efforts. Zeke is committed to excellence and drives to breed the best quality seed-

stock cattle he can.

Having been involved in cattle farming from a young age, Zeke’s passion for agriculture and cattle was instilled in him early on. His work in the beef industry has strengthened his connection with his parents, who share his love for farming and the beef sector.

For young people entering the beef industry, Zeke acknowledges the financial challenges they face, such as the high costs of land and equipment. His advice to aspiring farmers is to embrace an entrepre-

neurial spirit and take a resourceful approach to life and finances. By breaking down goals into manageable steps, young people can overcome the obstacles and thrive in the industry.

Zeke’s journey exemplifies his unwavering dedication, passion, and resilience in realising his dreams. His pursuit of excellence and vision for Zele Angus serve as an inspiration to all. Let Zeke’s story encourage you to dream big, as every achievement begins with a dream.

Xavier is currently a Processing Specialist at Greenstock, the Red Meat division of Woolworths. His responsibilities include managing day-to-day relationships with beef and lamb service providers within the Greenstock ecosystem. He works closely with these partners to optimise performance, ensuring that quality specifications and red meat yield requirements are met. Additionally, he collaborates with processing partners and broader Greenstock teams to gather information necessary for launching project initiatives.

MCCLUSKEY

From Rural Roots to Red Meat Specialist

Xavier grew up in rural New Zealand on a dairy farm with beef finishing blocks. This sparked his interest in the beef industry from a young age.

Xavier enjoyed purchasing cattle at the sale yards and seeing them through to a finished weight on his family’s property.

PATHWAY

After completing a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics and Finance) at Lincoln University, Xavier joined Woolworths NZ as a graduate. 03

Xavier’s choice to pursue a career in the beef industry was inspired by his upbringing on a farm, where he developed an appreciation for both livestock and the significance of meat production. Furthermore, Xavier’s experience at Woolworths revealed the vast opportunities that the meat

industry, particularly the beef sector, offers.

He was fortunate to have mentors early in his career who provided valuable guidance and advice, shaping his path towards a successful career in the beef industry.

His journey led him to plant management, where he became the Business Manager for Wilson Hellaby’s (AMP) and studied Post Grad in Meat Technology. Eventually, Xavier made the move to Australia and assumed his current role as Processing Specialist for Greenstock.

Recognizing his own potential for a career in the meat and livestock team, Xavier spent time in the procurement team, purchasing supplementary meat and selling service kill surpluses primal cuts domestically and for export.

Xavier was recently recent shortlisted for the Zanda McDonald Award and a mentee of Beef Australia’s Graeme Acton Beef Connections program. He is currently working on a project to a educate children about the agriculture industry - a great leader for the beef industry.

EMILY’S PATHWAY

Emily’s connection to the beef cattle industry dates back to her upbringing on a cattle station in Southwest Queensland. After completing her education, Emily sought to expand her experience across the beef supply chain, engaging in pastoral operations such as contract mustering, droving, and working in sale yards, feedlots, and with stud producers. Through this journey, she honed her interest in

bovine reproduction, genetics, and herd improvement, guided by the mentorship of experienced leaders in the field.

To deepen her knowledge, Emily worked in Bovine Reproduction in New South Wales and Queensland, conducting various services such as pregnancy testing, artificial insemination, semen testing, collection, and embryology.

WHY CHOOSE THE BEEF INDUSTRY?

She is currently pursuing a Dual Bachelor of Agribusiness and Animal Science while actively seeking opportunities to apply and develop her skills.

As a mentee in the Graeme Acton Beef Connections program and a recipient of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant, Emily is committed to supporting genetic advancements in the beef industry.

Emily’s passion for the beef industry has always been strong, driving her desire to make meaningful contributions to the sector. The industry presents a wealth of opportunities and diverse career paths. Emily is particularly drawn to advocating for sustainable and innovative livestock breeding practices that contribute to food security.

ADVICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE STARTING THEIR BEEF CAREERS

Emily emphasises the importance of self-belief: “Back yourself or nobody else will.”

She also holds a quote from Teddy Roosevelt close to her heart:

“It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds

could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is in the arena … because there is no effort without error or shortcoming … who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly.”

Encouraging young people to embrace challenges and take bold steps in their beef careers, knowing that with effort and perseverance, they can achieve high levels of success.