THE King Island Beef Producers Group Inc celebrated its 25th annual Beef Day with a very well attended dinner and the awarding of a new life membership, only the third in the group’s history, to well known beef producer Fred Perry. The past two recipients were Roger Clemons and Rod Graham. When the award was announced, Roger Clemons and James Hill gave a brief history of Fred’s commitment to the King Island beef industry. “He was an active member of a very active TFGA King Island Branch in the 1980s – 90s. When the local abattoir run by King Island Exports failed, Fred was one of two producers appointed to the Primary Producers Consultative Committee to liaise with the State Government who owned the abattoirs. The King Island branch of the Tasmanian Beef Improvement Group was established, and Fred took on the role of running it.
The King Island Abattoir and both the TFGA branch and the Beef Improvement Group began developing closer working relationships and a King Island Beef Brand – grass fed, HGP free and MSA graded emerged. This led to the first Beef Day, the MLA BeefNet program, the Working in Groups program and a formal incorporation of the KIBPG. Fred was involved every step of the way in these developments, giving good advice and encouragement. Fred joined the committee and became the second president, after Brian Crockett and remained in this role nine years. Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) recognised his professional approach and his ability to “convey a message” by appointing him as an ambassador for the MLA program “More Beef from Pastures” program. This involved giving speeches at events around Southern Australia, promoting the program and King Island at the same time.” Fred was presented with the Golden Life Membership badge and James Hill presented him with a magnificent Hereford hide and two tomahawk (rib eye)steaks from King Island Meat Providores.
No beefs with growers’ big day
THIS year’s annual Beef Day celebrated the King Island Beef Producers 25 year silver anniversary. Farmers came together at the King Island Club in Currie to gain insights and listen to new ideas and business future proofing. The traditional Beef Dinner followed. For only the third time in the Beef Group’s history a Life Member was inducted. The honour went to Fred Perry.
The 2022 King Island Beef Producer’s “Beef Day” was held on Friday, October 14, with 72 attending, while 50 went on to enjoy a dinner of rib eye steak at the Boomerang Restaurant. Thanks to Chef Mike and all the staff for a delicious meal and great service.
There was a variety of topics on the day from presenters. These included Elle Davis (TFGA Red Meat Steering Committee); Sophie Oster from King Island Landcare, Sally Murfet of Inspire Ag and the keynote speaker for the day (and evening) was Nigel Kerin, of Kerin Agriculture. The new CEO of TFGA, Hugh Christie, travelled to the Beef Day to introduce himself. He encouraged Beef Group members to contact him with any issues that need addressing in relation to farm production. Dr Phillipa Sims from Biosecurity Tas, joined via zoom and explained the risks of FMD and LSD (lumpy skin disease) on King Island and Tasmania.
The Annual General Meeting was held prior to the day’s activities. The committee current positions are President – Nick Lyttle, VP Cody Whiteman, Treasurer Adam Clark, Secretary Belinda Smith. The Beef Group Committee is made up of a good blend of experienced long term committee members – Roger Clemons, Robbie Payne, Tas Loane, James Hill. Committee members with a few years under their belt are Jamie Roebuck, Belinda Smith, Nick Lyttle, Cody Whiteman, and Adam Clark. Tom Graham and Jye Summers have one year and new onto the committee for the coming term is Laura Harvey.
Many thanks to all the sponsors for making the day possible. A special thanks to Wade Roskam for the audio and visual connections. These skills make the day a very professional setting. The day was a great success, with many attending feeling more stimulated about their business