Building the next generation of beef producers
In an effort to attract, retain and grow the feedlot sector workforce, the Australian Lot Feeders’ Association (ALFA) launched an initiative in November 2024 to nurture the next generation of lot feeders - the ALFA Future Feeders Network (FFN).
The inaugural ALFA Future Feeders Forum held in Toowoomba, QLD - Sept 2025
In under 12 months, a youth-driven committee was formed, and they have now delivered the inaugural Future Feeders Forum and Soirée - an event designed to connect early-career professionals and create a network that will help future-proof the industry.
The perfect MC for the inaugural event, Nuffield Scholar Claire Taylor, opening the forum held at The Empire in Toowoomba
During my time at ALFA, a great deal of work went on behind the scenes to bring this initiative to life - from developing the framework and terms of reference to selecting the committee and mentoring them through their establishment phase. Industry should be highly commended for its investment of time, energy and trust in new initiatives like the FFN. It speaks volumes about the culture of this sector - one that embraces innovation, collaboration and leadership development.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of this journey from the very beginning and to witness the inaugural event - run by youth, for youth - come to life. Watching people step up and shine is deeply rewarding. Mentoring the committee, helping to create a new revenue stream through a fresh membership category, and supporting the team to build a network and event from scratch were all moments of real pride.
The incredible young people spearheading the network, the FFN Committee
I want to take a moment to congratulate the inaugural Future Feeders Network Committee; 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 (Condabri Feedlot) and Tom Harrington (Australian Country Choice). With notable mention of Tim Brennan who helped launch the initiative in Nov 2024 as the inaugural Chair of the committee, and subsequently passed the baton on to Tim Mitchell ahead of the forum taking place.
This group’s energy, professionalism and passion for building connection and capability in our sector shone through in every aspect of the Forum and Soirée. From shaping the program to delivering an inspiring event, they’ve shown exactly what’s possible when emerging leaders are empowered and trusted. I’m proud to have walked alongside them and honoured to watch the foundation they’ve laid for the next generation of feedlot professionals.
A full house. 250+ delegates descended on Toowoomba for the inaugural event
The program content was thoughtful and powerful - relevant whether you were under 35 or not. Speakers like Megan Krause and Jeff Dight reinforced that vulnerability and openness about the ups and downs of a career are essential.
“Not everything goes to plan - and often, our greatest lessons come from mistakes, not successes.”
Megan Krause and Jeff Dight giving candid advice during their session on the power of networks
Their advice resonated deeply: if you’re not stretching yourself, you’re not really growing. They reminded us to “be in a rush - but not too much of a rush.” It’s easy to chase the next title or milestone (I’ve done it too), but the real growth happens when you slow down long enough to master your craft. When you rush, you miss the rich experiences that shape a remarkable career.
The closer you get to the top, the fewer opportunities there are to stretch - so make the most of where you are now.
Another key takeaway came from Patrice and Lindsay Douglas, of Centred for Success who highlighted that success is built on strong relationships - and I couldn’t agree more. Every role presents an opportunity to build meaningful connections.
Never burn a bridge; you never know who will open the next door.
Patrice & Lyndsey Douglas getting the delegates centred for success
Interestingly, a recurring theme throughout the event was that the hardest part of agriculture isn’t the livestock - it’s the people. Developing the skills to connect, communicate and collaborate is crucial. As someone who’s led teams, I’ve seen first-hand how investing in people skills and self-awareness transforms performance and culture.
This is something I’m deeply passionate about continuing through AgCentric - helping organisations strengthen their teams and leadership capability from the ground up. Leadership development and workplace culture have evolved dramatically in the past decade, and it’s vital we keep showcasing what makes working in agriculture something to be proud of.
By building capable, confident people, we strengthen the sector’s ability to attract and retain talent for the long term.
Delegates Georgia Barnett of Associated Feedlots, Madie Hamilton of AgCentric & Sam Atkin sharing some reflections on stage
I particularly loved the session with Lisa Sharp of Stockyard Beef and Lauren McNally Artist and HR expert (not to mention one of the primary drivers for the network itself when she was on the ALFA Board in 2021-24), who reminded us that culture eats strategy for breakfast. You can have the best plans, the best people, and the best strategy - but without a strong, lived culture, none of it sticks. As Anthony Lee said on a recent Humans of Agriculture podcast, if everyone isn’t living the values of the business, the culture has already been lost.
Lisa Sharp, CEO Stockyard Beef - ‘Culture eats strategy for breakfast’
Finally, Jeff Dight of Bindaree Food Group made an excellent point about social licence - reframing it as social responsibility. Doing the right thing shouldn’t feel like an obligation; it should be a mindset. When you see it as a responsibility rather than a requirement, it changes how you show up and why you do what you do.
What the Future Feeders Network Committee has achieved in such a short time is nothing short of inspirational. They should be incredibly proud — and I have no doubt this event will become a fixture for years to come, shaping the careers of many future leaders.
Congratulations to the ALFA Board for their foresight in supporting such an initiative. May it continue to thrive and strengthen the industry’s future. And of course, congratulations to Team ALFA, who helped lift this initiative off the ground and made it one to remember!
Tim Mitchell, Chair FFN Committee speaking with the Beef Central team on the ground covering the event