Feedlot of the Year to be announced at BeefEx as ALFA opens 2026 industry awards
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
MEDIA RELEASE
Feedlots and individuals across Australia are encouraged to showcase excellence, leadership and innovation, with applications opening for the Australian Lot Feeders’ Association’s (ALFA) 2026 industry awards.
The Australian Feedlot of the Year will be announced at BeefEx 2026, recognising operational excellence across four size categories. While entries for this award have now closed, there remains an opportunity to apply for a range of other award categories.
ALFA’s awards program recognises outstanding contribution across the cattle feedlot sector, celebrating individuals and operations that demonstrate leadership, continuous improvement and commitment to their people, communities and the wider industry.
Award recipients will be announced at the grain fed beef industry’s flagship event, BeefEx 2026.
ALFA CEO, Christian Mulders, said the awards play an important role in recognising the strength and diversity of talent across the feedlot industry.
“Our industry is driven by people who consistently go above and beyond in their roles, their businesses and their communities,” Mr Mulders said.
“ALFA’s awards recognise those contributions while highlighting the leadership, innovation and professionalism that underpin a strong and sustainable feedlot sector.”
YOUNG LOT FEEDER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Proudly sponsored by Performance Feeds, the Young Lot Feeder of the Year Award recognises emerging leaders aged 35 and under who demonstrate a clear vision for their future within the feedlot industry. The award seeks to identify, develop and reward individuals who show leadership potential and a commitment to advancing the sector. The overall winner receives a prestigious perpetual trophy and funding towards professional development.
EXCELLENCE IN FEEDLOT EDUCATION MEDAL
Sponsored by Zoetis, the Excellence in Feedlot Education Medal recognises individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to learning and skills development. Applicants are assessed on how education and training, particularly through ALFA’s Feedlot TECH eLearning platform, has delivered practical benefits to their role and feedlot performance.
COMMUNITY HEROES AWARD
The Community Heroes Award celebrates feedlots that make a meaningful contribution to their local communities and environment. Proudly sponsored by Lallemand Animal Nutrition, the award recognises initiatives ranging from community engagement and education to environmental stewardship and land management. The overall winner receives a $5,000 cash donation to direct towards a nominated charity, business or feedlot initiative.
INNOVATION COMPETITION
Sponsored by Integrated Animal Production, ALFA’s Innovation Competition recognises practical innovations developed by feedlot businesses or staff that improve day to day operations. The competition showcases solutions that enhance efficiency, animal welfare, sustainability or workplace practices, with winners receiving cash prizes and industry recognition.
COMMUNICATE YOUR RESEARCH
The Communicate Your Research competition recognises students and early career researchers who can clearly articulate research relevant to the feedlot industry. Participants present oral presentations or posters, helping bridge the gap between research and practical application within the sector.
Further information on eligibility, award categories and application details is available here.
ENDS.
Media Enquiries:
Christian Mulders
ALFA CEO
(02) 9290 3700
Niamh Bartley
ALFA Marketing & Communications
0417 610 150
