1 April 2011
DAFF11/111L
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, officially opened the Northern Territory Cattlemen Association’s Conference in Katherine this morning.
Minister Ludwig addressed the conference on a range of issues affecting the beef industry and wider agricultural sector, including trade relations and the development of the Northern Australia Beef Industry Strategy.
“Australia is one of the world's most efficient producers of cattle and the world's second largest exporter of beef,” Minister Ludwig said.
“The live animal export sector is the backbone of many rural and regional communities across Australia, including northern Australia, as it provides a valuable market option for producers.
The Minister said that the continued strength of Australia’s industry in domestic and international markets can be attributed to the sectors tens of thousands of workers, who strive for consistent high quality in our beef products every day.
During his address, Minister Ludwig also spoke about the future of the meat processing industry, animal welfare and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment.
“The government is keen to increase Indigenous engagement in the northern cattle industry. New efforts by government and industry are being carried out to boost the number of Indigenous people working and running cattle stations in northern Australia.
“Improving Indigenous engagement will be a focus of the Northern Australia Beef Industry Strategy - a strategy which will identify the potential for agricultural development across the north.
“The Northern Australia Beef Industry Strategy is just one component of the Government’s Northern Australia Sustainable Futures program to encourage sustainable economic development throughout the region,” Minister Ludwig said.
Minister Ludwig also launched an Occupational Health and Safety DVD, produced by the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association for member use and staff inductions.
The DVD focuses on cattle station practices including helicopter and motorbike safety, and safety in the workshop.
Yesterday the Minister toured Manbulloo Station where the DVD was filmed.
