The Neogen World Angus Concludes in Brisbane
The 2025 Neogen World Angus Forum concluded last week in Brisbane, marking a significant milestone for the Australian Angus and the global beef industry. Held from May 7–8 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, the event brought together 1,000 delegates from around the globe under the theme “Beef for a Better Planet”.
Welcome Function at the Norman Hotel
On May 6, delegates were warmly welcomed at the Norman Hotel in Woolloongabba. The venue provided an ideal setting for attendees to relax and network before the forum’s commencement. The evening featured a selection of canapés and beverages, allowing guests to connect in a casual atmosphere and set the tone for the collaborative spirit of the event.
Global Collaboration and Industry Insights
Day 1: May 7, 2025 – Leadership, Branding, and Sustainability
- Welcome and Opening Remarks: The forum commenced with an official opening by the Hon. Dr. Jeannette Young, Governor of Queensland, and the Hon. Anthony Perrett MP, Minister for Primary Industries. Sinclair Munro, President of Angus Australia, also addressed attendees, setting the stage for the event.
- Keynote Address: John Eales AM, former Wallabies captain, delivered an inspiring keynote on leadership and resilience, drawing parallels between sports and the beef industry.
- Industry Sessions:
- “The CAB Story”: John Stika, President of Certified Angus Beef, discussed the global success and recognition of the Angus brand.
- “Global Thinking – World Angus Evaluation”: Mark McCully, CEO of the American Angus Association, explored international perspectives on breed evaluation.
- “Angus for Every System”: Scott Wright, CEO of Angus Australia, presented strategies for adapting Angus genetics to diverse production systems.
- “Beef for a Better Planet – Industry Outlook”: Michael Crowley, CEO of Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), provided insights into the industry’s sustainability goals.
- “Cows are not to Blame”: Prof Frank Mitloehner covered how livestock methane is different and why livestock are critical to the world
- “Getting the Message Through” – Simon Corah, CEO Growth Mantra, discussed how to tell the story of beef to consumers
- Panel Discussion: A thought-provoking panel titled “Does Beef Deserve to Be on the Menu?” featured Frank Mitloehner, Dr. Anneline Padayachee, Michael Crowley, Simon Quilty, and Marg Will, discussing beef’s role in a sustainable diet.
- Market Trends: Simon Quilty offered a comprehensive analysis of current and future market dynamics affecting the beef industry.
Day 2: May 8, 2025 – Genetics, Innovation, and Youth Engagement
- Genetics and Innovation:
- “The New Frontier of Genetics”: Dr. Alison Van Eenennaam from the University of California, Davis, discussed advancements in genetic technologies.
- “Where is genomics taking us?” – Dr Stephan Miller, AGBU, checked in on the future of Angus genetics
- “Angus Breeding Values”: Carel Teseling, COO of Angus Australia, presented on Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) and their impact on breeding decisions.
- “Does less methane equal more meat”: Professor Sam Clark, UNE, shared research on breeding strategies aimed at reducing methane emissions.
- “Outback but front of mind”: Dr. Mariana Caetano highlighted nutritional approaches to lower methane production in extensive grazing systems.
- “Family Farm – Carbon Strategies”: Stephen Weiderman discussed practical approaches for family farms to engage in carbon initiatives.
- “Turning off ticks”: Professor Ala Tabor introduced developments in tick vaccine research.
- “Sale-O!” – Paul Holm, General Manager, AuctionsPlus, discussed maximising your livestock profits through big data and what the future looks like.
- “Meating our needs” – Dr Anneline Padayachee on understanding why red meat is critical for the human body
- Youth Engagement:
- Youth Awards: Nancy Crawshaw and Erica Halliday recognised outstanding contributions from young participants.
- Youth Panel: A panel discussion featuring Matilda Satler, AUS, Jonwyn Ayres, USA, James Morrison, IRE and Garrett Liebreich, CAN, led by Crawshaw and Halliday focused on the future of Angus breeding from the perspective of the next generation.
- Keynote Address: Futurist Michael McQueen delivered a keynote titled “Preparing Now for What’s Next,” emphasising the importance of innovation and adaptability in the beef industry
Looking Ahead
Handing over the baton, the final day of the event concluded with a passing on of the World Angus Forum from Australia to Brazil in 2027 for the World Angus Secretariat meeting, and the United States for the World Angus Forum in 2029.
Images by Branded Ag – World Angus Forum 2025 Photos
