Cattle conference pegged for WA’s north

Northern pastoralists will journey to Kununurra in October for a three-day forum about WA’s booming beef industry.

Kimberley Pilbara Cattlemen’s Association recently announced the town as its chosen location for its annual field day, conference and AGM.

The event, themed Vertical Integration and Emerging Opportunities, will include talks and a field trip to a nearby working cattle station.

KPCA vice president David Stoate said the group hoped to build on the success of its most recent event at Onslow in March.

Hundreds of people involved in the northern pastoral industry gathered at the Pilbara town for KPCA’s inaugural field day.

It also included a boat trip to Mackerel Islands, a field day and a tour of Andrew Forrest’s Minderoo Station.

“The initial event at Onslow was very well-received, so we hope this one will be even better,” Mr Stoate said.

“We chose Kununurra because we have to mix it up between the Kimberley and the Pilbara.

“It is quite far for many people, including me, but most pastoralists will probably drive to the Kimberley.”

KPCA recently announced its annual field day and conference would be held each October instead of March.

Mr Stoate said it would now align with the group’s AGM and avoid a clash with the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association conference.

At the Onslow event, Mr Forrest’s Harvey Beef announced a multi-million dollar partnership with KPCA to produce Rangelands brand beef.

Under the deal, hand-picked northern cattle producers were required to adhere to strict animal welfare standards, as well as hormone and chemical-free status, to deliver an exclusive beef range of mince, sausages and burgers.