CEO Update – April 2025
We’re pleased to welcome Zoetis Australia as our new Animal Health Sector Corporate Partner. It’s fantastic to have such a reputable animal health company on board supporting the breed and our community, and we look forward to working together into the future.
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending Sydney Royal for the Hereford judging. It was a great day and with over 100 entries and 27 exhibitors, it was certainly a tremendous celebration of the breed. Congratulations to all exhibitors.
We wrapped up judging with a social function in the cattle shed where we were treated to Hearty Hereford pies and delicious finger food, provided by the Bakers Association of Australia (BAA). Our partnership with the BAA continues to grow stronger each year at Sydney Royal, and I have to say – the pies were an absolute hit!
Wodonga preparations are now in full swing as we count down to our National Event. The excitement is building, and we’re seeing strong interest across all the shouldering events. It was especially pleasing to see the Wodonga catalogues arrive in the post at the office recently – a great reminder that the event is just around the corner. If you’d like to receive a copy of the catalogue, please don’t hesitate to contact the office.
I also encourage you to share details of the Breed Forum with your clients, family, and friends. It promises to be a fantastic day filled with networking and education. The speaker lineup is being finalised and will be circulated in the coming days. Following the Annual General Meeting at 4:30pm on Tuesday, 13 May, we’ll be hosting a Happy Hour & Social Function in the Members Lounge at Racing Wodonga. With dinner and drinks provided, it’s a great opportunity to unwind, reconnect, and meet new faces in the industry. Registration details are on the website and open until 6 May 2025.
Another exciting highlight is our 60th Anniversary Cocktail Function, taking place at The Goods Shed, Wodonga, on the evening of Wednesday, 14 May. A ticket to this special celebration includes all the food and drinks you could want, plus live entertainment, and the highly anticipated Herefords Australia Youth Auction. There is plenty of seating available for those wanting to take a seat and relax after a busy day in the sheds and on the grounds. Make sure you secure your tickets before 6 May.
Lastly, I’d like to update you on a recent change. While we were excited to announce the National Online Commercial Feature Sale for 16 May, we’ve made the difficult decision to cancel the sale for this year. Ongoing seasonal conditions and market factors meant there was insufficient cattle available to proceed. We know this will be disappointing news, but we’re committed to coming back bigger and better in 2026.
Wishing you and your families a safe and happy Easter.
See you in Wodonga!
Warm regards,
Alastair James.
