Australian Pork Limited’s annual leadership course visits WA for the first time

Six of the top bosses of Australia’s $5.5 billion pork industry have toured WA to learn more about the State’s different agriculture supply chains as part of a year-long leadership course.

It was the first time Australian Pork Limited had selected to head west for its annual Pork Leadership Course, which aims to develop the skills of the national pork body’s members to equip them well into the future.

ALP chief executive Margo Andrae said the course aimed to showcase different supply chains to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by primary industries nationwide, and to develop participants’ skills in media, negotiation, and presenting a message.

Participants this year hailed from South Australia, Victoria, Queensland, and WA.

“The pork industry has a very positive story to tell in environmental management and biosecurity,” Ms Andrae said.

“We need as many people in the industry as possible sharing that story.

“It’s important that people know they can show leadership at any level as long as they have the skills, and that’s what the course is about.”

While in WA, the group visited Linley Valley Pork, InterGrain, Geraldton Fishermen’s Co-operative, WA Fishing Industry Council, Boortmalt, Gage Roads Brewing Company, Bee Industry Council of WA, Honey in the Garden, Harvest Road, V&V Walsh Meat Processors and Exporters and Hillcroft Farms.

“It was fantastic to have it back up and running after a hiatus during COVID,” Ms Andrae said.

“I joined the course (for a day) and it was great seeing them come out of their shells and to not be intimidated by others and being confident in who they are.”

Ms Andrae said many agricultural industries had the same challenges.

“Participants gained an understanding of the various technologies and innovations being used to improve operational efficiencies among these sectors — learning that unlikely synergies exist between various agricultural sectors,” she said.

Craig Mostyn Group biosecurity, animal welfare and research manager Dr Megan Trezona said the tour participants were a great mix of people, working across the Australian pork supply chain.

“The workshop gave us good insights into other agricultural industries and showcased a range of successful businesses from the WA agricultural sector.

“There are many differences between the businesses and the pork industry but also many similarities between the processes within the supply chain and shared challenges.

“A key takeaway for me is, I now have an awareness of the opportunity and value in fostering collaboration across different industries, particularly when addressing challenges, but also to show the value of technologies that can be applied across sectors to continue to build the Australian (and WA) brand of quality and ethically produced food.”

Applications for the 2023-2024 Australian Pork Leadership Course open in August.