Beef Market Receives Federal Government Investment

Article by: Hari Yellina

The federal government will invest $6 million in the cattle industry’s showpiece event. In the 2019 budget, money will be made aside for Beef 2024 in acknowledgement of its importance in developing the beef industry. Last year’s event saw a record 115,000 people consume 63 tonnes of beef, making it the largest yet. The event is a major economic driver for Rockhampton and the surrounding region, providing more than $90 million in revenue for the district and about $60 million for Queensland. The government, according to Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, is putting the event in the best possible position to prosper in the future.

“Australia has some of the best beef on the planet, and this event gives Australian producers a chance to show it off to the rest of the world,” Mr Joyce said. “By bringing together local producers and foreign industry leaders, we can promote new trade and export prospects, which will help the industry grow and generate more money for our country.” “The more cattle we sell around the world, the more money we gain to build Australia up as rapidly as possible.” That’s why we’re investing in Beef 2024, which will be bigger and better.” Australia is one of the world’s largest beef exporters, with a $15 billion business. The cattle industry, which employs over 45,000 people across the country, is also a key employer in rural areas.

Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said the government would continue to support an event that benefits Central Queensland economically. Mr Littleproud said, “This is thanks to Michelle Landry’s strong and passionate campaigning and her resolve to help Rockhampton and one of Australia’s great agriculture sectors.” Michelle Landry, a Capricornia MP, said the government had a long history of supporting the famed Rockhampton event. “We recognise how essential this event is for the region,” Ms Landry said. “The Coalition Government committed $3.9 million to Beef 2021, $3 million in 2018, and $2.75 million in 2015, as we appreciate how vital this event is for the region.” “eef 2021 was more successful than ever before, providing 795 full-time equivalent jobs in Rockhampton, despite the obstacles of the COVID-19 pandemic.