The beef industry’s largest global event is now officially underway in Rockhampton with Queensland primed to showcase its premier produce and the best of regional Queensland.
Speaking at Beef 2021, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said it was a testament to the hard work of Queenslanders that organisers were able to stage the event during a global pandemic, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to Australia’s beef capital.
“Being able to hold events like Beef 2021, an exceptional mix of industry, entertainment and food, is critical to Queensland’s economic recovery,” the Premier said.
“This is an incredible boost for the regional economy, tourism and for Queensland’s world-renowned beef industry.
“I am in constant awe of the ongoing strength of the beef cattle sector and the people who drive this industry day in and day out and this event is a wonderful celebration of them.
“When it comes to growing Queensland exports and jobs, no industry is bigger than beef, with cattle grown in almost every region and a state-wide herd of more than 11.1 million head – about half the national total.
“As Queensland’s largest manufacturing industry, the meat processing sector supports more than 18,500 jobs. The gross value of beef production at the farm gate is more than $6 billion with exports to 66 countries worth $6.7 billion.
“My government is proud to continue to support the sector and events like Beef 2021 because it’s critical not just for regional Queensland’s economy but the whole state.”
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said this week’s event in Rockhampton was expected to attract 100,000 international, national and local attendees, either in person or virtually.
“Beef 2021 is a significant event for the industry and showcases incredible Queensland produce to the world,” Mr Furner said.
“Visitors can see thousands of cattle from over 30 breeds, attend the trade fair promoting more than 500 businesses, enjoy symposiums and seminars, and take part in property tours.
“In 2021, for the first time there will be an ag tech and innovation hub called Tech Yards that will showcase Queensland innovations and deliver new research information to producers.
“The Queensland Government is investing in the ag tech space through a digital transformation initiative, a comprehensive ag tech portal and extensive R&D extension efforts. We are proudly showcasing our role and achievements in this area.
“Organisers have also worked very closely with health authorities to make this a COVID-safe event and I am certain it will be a massive success.”
Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said some of the nation’s best chefs will be on duty at the celebrity chef restaurant for lunch and dinner throughout the week of Beef 2021.
“Hosting Beef 2021 is great for Rockhampton business and jobs,” he said.
Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said Beef Australia also partnered with Opera Queensland for tonight’s world premiere of an opera and country music, ahead of a two-month tour of Queensland.
“Hosting Beef 2021 in Central Queensland will be a boost for jobs and a whole range of industries in our region,” she said.
