Northern Australian Beef Research Update Conference 2026
The upcoming Northern Australian Beef Research Update Conference is set to be a landmark event, featuring the esteemed David Foote, a distinguished figure in the meat and livestock industry, as a keynote speaker.
David Foote
With 40 years of experience, Mr. Foote has held various significant roles, including operational and executive management positions in the beef industry. As the Chief Executive of the Lee family’s Australian Country Choice Group, he oversaw 42 properties encompassing 1.75 million hectares and supported a herd of 280,000 cattle. Under his leadership, the ACC evolved into the world’s largest privately owned vertically integrated beef operation.
Earlier in his career, he held senior management positions at Stanbroke Pastoral Co. In 2023, he made history by being elected the inaugural president of Cattle Australia, the new representative body for grassfed cattle producers, and he actively participates on several agricultural and beef industry boards.
Conference Details
The conference returns in 2026 under the theme “From Research to Results: Driving Paddock Performance,” emphasizing the real-world application of research and development in enhancing northern Australia’s beef industry. Researchers, producers, extension personnel, and industry stakeholders will converge in Brisbane from 10-13 March to discuss the latest research outcomes, evaluate successes, and identify areas for improvement.
Derek Bailey
Another key speaker, Derek Bailey, Director of Research and Outreach at Deep Well Ranch (Arizona, US), will share insights on leveraging data and technology for improved research outcomes.
Conference Program and Networking Opportunities
The two-day event, taking place on 11-12 March, offers an engaging program featuring keynote addresses, concurrent presentations, and valuable networking opportunities. Topics will include vaccines, reproductive performance, environmental management, and strategies for improving productivity and sustainability.
Participants will engage with researchers directly, challenge conventional ideas, and help shape the future of the industry. The conference will also serve as an opportunity to celebrate excellence in the field, with the 2026 NABRC medals awarded for research, extension, production, young achiever, and lifetime achievement categories.
The awards ceremony will take place during the NABRUC dinner on 11 March.
Click here for more information on the conference and to register. Early bird registration closes on 30 January.
