Progressing planning to beef up Rockhampton’s big week

Agriculture Minister, Bridget McKenzie and Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, today met with Beef Australia to progress planning for Rockhampton’s internationally renowned Beef Australia Expo in 2021. 

 

Minister McKenzie was in Rockhampton today to talk about planning for the Expo and how the Australian Government’s $3.9 million 2019 election funding commitment could be best leveraged to support farmers.

 

“Rockhampton is the beef capital of Australia so it makes sense that we showcase our quality Australian beef to the world where it is grown,” Minister McKenzie said.

 

“2021 will be an important opportunity to champion our fantastic beef products domestically and internationally.

 

“While fake meat may grab headlines—and I support true food innovation—I stand behind the beef industry that’s delivering economic benefits to Australia, to regional economies and to farmers’ hip pockets.

 

“Beef is also healthy food. It is a great source of protein and grass fed beef is a great source of Omega-3—which is regarded as having significant health benefits. 

 

“Beef production is often represented as a negative for the environment. However, we’re now learning that this is not a foregone conclusion.

 

“The $3.9 million investment is one more way that we are demonstrating our priority of keeping Australia’s economy strong and letting farmers get on with growing their businesses by facilitating new trade and export opportunities.”

 

Ms Landry said the Australian Government had helped beef producers improve returns by maintaining and securing new export markets, and achieving lower tariffs through our free-trade agreements—particularly with Korea, Japan and China.

 

“Queensland is the epicentre of beef production in Australia, with more than 12,000 businesses contributing $5.47 billion to the national economy,” Ms Landry said.

 

“Rockhampton’s contribution to the industry is central, and it’s critical we as a government back local producers and facilitate more opportunities for one of Australia’s most valuable export commodities.”

 

The next Beef Australia Expo will be held in Rockhampton, Queensland from 2 to 8 May 2021.