National Agriculture Day Celebration: A Deep Dive into the Future of Sustainable Livestock Protein
On November 17th, 2023, the UNE Smart Region Incubator (SRI) recently hosted a half-day event titled 'The Future of Sustainable Livestock Protein: Tough Talk, Tender Taste.'
The event, held in celebration of National Agriculture Day, brought together industry experts, producers, and researchers to discuss the challenges and opportunities in sustainable livestock protein production.
The event featured keynote speeches from renowned figures in the field, including Australian chef and sustainable farmer Paul West, who emphasized the importance of meeting consumer expectations in the production of livestock protein.
John Harvey, Executive Director of AgriFutures Australia, discussed the need for the agricultural sector to adapt to changing consumer preferences and build consumer trust.
Josie Angus, a cattle producer with over 30 years of experience, shared insights from her family's cattle operation in Queensland, highlighting their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Johnny Kahlbetzer, CEO of Twynam, provided an overview of current agtech investments in farming and offered a forward-looking perspective on the industry's potential.
The event also included a panel discussion with the keynote speakers, allowing attendees to engage directly with the experts and ask questions. Professor Lewis Kahn from UNE summarised the key points discussed, facilitating further discussions during the networking session.
In the evening, attendees enjoyed a BBQ with a difference at the Potting Shed on the UNE Campus. Professor Chris Moran discussed UNE's initiatives in promoting sustainable livestock protein, followed by a BBQ prep session and a live cooking demonstration with Chef Paul West and Associate Professor Peter McGilchrist, showcasing sustainable protein dishes.
The event was part of the UNE SRI's Futures Series, which aims to build capability and opportunities through strong industry engagement and forward-thinking research. It was a testament to the UNE SRI's dedication to supporting regional businesses and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
