Hamish Chandler Appointed CEO of Herefords Australia

Herefords Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Hamish Chandler as Chief Executive Officer, effective 2 October 2025. Hamish brings extensive experience in livestock genetics, research, and industry leadership, and is widely respected by staff, members, and the broader red meat sector. His appointment signals a renewed focus on positioning the modern Hereford as the sustainable, profitable choice for today’s Australian beef industry.

Hamish joined Herefords Australia in March 2023 as Research, Development and Extension (RD&E) Specialist, a role in which he has made a significant impact on the delivery of the organisation’s R&D initiatives and extension activities. His deep knowledge of BREEDPLAN genetic evaluation, national livestock genetics programs, and practical on-farm experience has earned him a reputation as a trusted and highly capable leader.

Prior to joining Herefords Australia, Hamish led Meat & Livestock Australia’s livestock genetics program, overseeing the National Livestock Genetics Consortium and the national genetic evaluations for both beef and sheep. He has also held roles as Sheep Genetics Manager and LAMBPLAN Development Officer at MLA and began his career as a BREEDPLAN Technical Officer. Hamish and his family have managed ram breeding and commercial cattle operations in the New England region since 1998.

Chairman Marc Greening welcomed the appointment, stating, “Hamish is exceptionally well regarded by our members and staff alike. His deep technical knowledge, practical experience, and clear understanding of the needs of Herefords Australia members make him the perfect person to lead the organisation forward He shares our vision to promote the modern Hereford, a breed with proven fertility, longevity, and carcase quality that aligns with the needs of a modern, sustainable beef industry.”

Hamish has been instrumental in progressing key initiatives under Herefords Australia’s 5-year Strategic Plan, particularly in accelerating R&D programs, improving member services, and promoting the Hereford breed’s performance and sustainability advantages. His ability to translate complex genetic and production information into practical insights has helped members make informed decisions and grow their businesses

“I am excited to be taking on the role of CEO of Herefords Australia,” Hamish said. “Herefords contribute significantly to efficient and sustainable beef production in Australia while delivering a top-quality product to consumers. A big focus for me will be

marketing the modern Hereford to the Australian commercial industry, ensuring the breed is positioned as the sustainable and profitable choice for today’s beef market The role of a breed organisation is to put considerable effort into building this recognition and supporting members with the tools to succeed.”

Hamish added:
“A modern industry requires a sustainable breed, both in purebred and crossbreeding programs. Herefords are well placed to meet this market trend with our proven strengths of fertility, longevity, and carcase quality. The time has come to sell these strengths better, bust the myths of the past, and show the industry why the modern Hereford is built for the future. We have the science, the data, and the cattle, now it’s about telling that story with pride and purpose. That’s the challenge I am excited to lead.”

Hamish Chandler will continue to be based in Armidale and lead Herefords Australia, focusing on supporting members, delivering R&D and extension initiatives, and promoting the growth and success of the Hereford breed across Australia.

About Herefords Australia
Herefords Australia Ltd (HAL) is one of Australia’s largest cattle breed organisations. HAL provides a range of services including animal records and registry, DNA testing, BREEDPLAN evaluations, marketing and promotional support, and R&D and extension activities to enhance breed performance.

For media enquiries:
Email: info@herefordsaustralia.com.au
Phone: (02) 6772 1399