Angus Australia Announces Successful Applicants for 2026 ICMJ Program
Angus Australia is pleased to announce the successful applicants of the Angus Foundations’ 2026 Northern Intercollegiate Meat Judging (ICMJ) scholarships.
Four outstanding young members have been selected to represent Angus Australia at the upcoming Northern ICMJ event, to be held at Central Queensland University and Teys Rockhampton from 9 to 12 April 2026.
The selection process highlighted the calibre of young people within the Angus membership, with applicants demonstrating a high level of interest in the red meat industry, along with strong communication skills and a clear commitment to furthering their knowledge of beef production and supply chains.
The selected applicants are Zoe Puls, Charlotte Dendy, Poppy Starr and Ella Christie.
These individuals will join other young adults from across Australia to participate in an intensive program of workshops, practical sessions, and industry engagement activities. The event will provide hands-on experience in carcase assessment, exposure to market specifications, and insights into the broader Australian beef supply chain.
Participation in the Northern ICMJ aligns with Angus Australia’s ongoing commitment to supporting the development of future industry leaders. Through initiatives such as this, the organisation aims to equip young members with the practical skills, knowledge, and networks required to contribute to a progressive and sustainable beef industry.
As part of the scholarship, Angus Australia will support the applicant’s participation in the event, enabling them to fully engage in the learning and networking opportunities on offer.
Angus Australia congratulates the successful applicants and looks forward to following their involvement in the 2026 Northern ICMJ Competition.
ABOUT THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS
ZOE PULS
Zoe Puls is an AuctionsPlus Market Operator based in Victoria with a strong passion for the Australian beef industry and its future. Growing up around agriculture, Zoe has developed a keen interest in livestock production, market systems, and strengthening the connection between primary producers and consumers. She is particularly passionate about education, advocacy and opportunities for the next generation in cattle industry. Zoe is eager to learn from progressive producers and industry leaders across Australia and internationally. She hopes the ICMJ Northern Conference will help expand her knowledge, build relationships and contribute to a strong future for the Angus industry.
CHARLOTTE DENDY
My name is Charlotte Dendy. I am 20 years old and currently studying for a bachelor’s in Agribusiness at the University of New England. I was introduced to the cattle industry at the beginning of high school, when I joined the Show team. This sparked a major passion for the beef industry. After graduating in 2023, I spent 2 years working and traveling overseas in Canada and America. This opportunity allowed me to work for Freyburn Angus Farms. I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity to represent Angus Australia on the ICMJ team!
POPPY STAR
Growing up in Cowra, NSW and working alongside my Pa on the family farm, which spans over 100 years and five generations of our family history has instilled in me a deep passion for the agricultural industry. I am currently studying a double degree, Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Agriculture, at the University of New England, Armidale. My envisaged future career lies at the intersection of politics and agriculture, where I hope to contribute to shaping policies that strengthen Australia’s farming sector and rural communities. I enjoy being an active member of my community and am grateful for the experiences offered to me through Angus Australia.
ELLA CHRISTIE
My name is Ella Christie and I am from a commercial beef property in southeast Queensland, where I developed a strong interest in cattle genetics and beef production. I have been actively involved in my family’s operation, alongside running my own small Angus herd. I hold a Bachelor of Biotechnology from the University of Queensland, where my honours research focused on genetic biomarkers associated with heifer reproductive efficiency. I have recently commenced working for Stockyard Beef as a Technical Assistant. As a member of the Angus Australia 2026 – Northern ICMJ Team, I am particularly interested in the relationship between genetics and carcass performance, and in improving productivity and meat quality outcomes across the beef industry.
