Next generation of lot feeders host inaugural forum
- niamh552
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
The Australian Lot Feeders’ Association (ALFA) will host the inaugural Future Feeders Network (FFN) Forum on Wednesday, 17 September 2025, at The Empire Theatre in Toowoomba, QLD.
The FFN, launched at ALFA’s BeefEx Conference in late 2024, is a national platform for young professionals under 35 working in the feedlot sector. The network aims to connect, support, and empower the next generation of leaders in Australia’s grain fed beef industry.
ALFA President, Grant Garey, said the forum program reflects ALFA’s ongoing commitment to investing in people.
“Attracting and retaining talent is one of the most important challenges facing our industry, and initiatives like this play a key role in building a strong, connected, and capable workforce,” Mr Garey said.
“ALFA is proud to support the Future Feedlot Network and the development of initiatives that bring people together, foster career development, and position the industry for long-term success.”
Driven by the newly formed FFN Committee, chaired by 2023 Young Lot Feeder of the Year Tim Brennan, the network delivers strategic, industry-focused initiatives to build skills, foster collaboration and grow leadership capability across the sector.
Established in January 2025, the committee comprises of April Kratzmann – Smithfield Cattle Company, Brianna Meacle – Whyalla Beef, Caitlin Herbert – Gundamain Pastoral Co, Edwina Warby – Black Box Co, Kassandra Lees – McIntyre Agriculture – Mooramanna Feedlot, Timothy Mitchell – Drury Farming Company Pty Ltd – Condabri Feedlot, Tom Harrington – Australian Country Choice and Tim Brennan.
Set to attract up to 200 attendees from across the country, the inaugural FFN Forum will bring together emerging leaders and industry stakeholders for a dynamic one-day event, culminating in a soiree networking function. While the program was developed with younger participants in mind, the forum is open to all ages.
The forward-looking program is designed to equip the next generation of lot feeders with the insights, skills and connections to thrive in an evolving industry.
“The program brings together a mix of practical and thought-provoking content designed to support the next generation of lot feeders,” said FFN Committee Chair, Tim Brennan.
MC, Nuffield Scholar Claire Taylor, promises to navigate the audience through an engaging line up of speakers, including ALFA President and General Manager Feedlots at Teys Australia, Grant Garey; Lisa Sharp, CEO of Stockyard Beef; and dynamic leadership duo Lyndsey and Patrice Douglas from Centred for Success, who will guide an engaging session on personal brand storytelling.
“Through a series of interactive panels, attendees will also explore mentorship, networking and career development opportunities, while hearing directly from employers about the skills needed for the workforce of tomorrow.
The program is rounded out with an important discussion on the future of the feedlot sector, led by a mix of emerging and experienced industry voices.
“It’s set to be a dynamic and engaging event - one not to be missed,” Tim concluded.
Strategically scheduled, the Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) R&D Symposium will take place at the same venue the following day. ALFA encourages Future Feedlot Network Forum attendees to take advantage of the opportunity to extend their knowledge on the latest feedlot R&D by registering for the symposium. Attendees can also look forward to enjoying a mouth-watering beef smoked lunch on-site by Screaming Kitchen BBQ.
Tickets to the ALFA Future Feeders Network Forum and the MLA R&D Symposium are available now via the ALFA website https://www.feedlots.com.au/ffnetwork.
ENDS.
Media Enquiries:
Grant Garey
ALFA President
(02) 9290 3700
Niamh Bartley
ALFA Marketing & Communications
0417 610 150
