THE Queensland Government has expanded its commitment to the Beef Australia three-yearly events held in Rockhampton, committing to a $4.5 million partnership in support of next year’s event.  

The countdown is on for the largest beef industry event in the southern hemisphere, with gates due to open in Rockhampton for Beef 2027 in just under 12 months. 

The Government’s support delivers on a key election commitment made by the Coalition Crisafulli Government, and is part of a plan to grow the value of the state’s primary industries production to $30 billion by 2030, a Government statement said.

“Beef is big business in Queensland and is home to almost half the Australian herd and was worth more than $6 billion in 2024-2025, underpinning regional communities and small and family businesses,” the statement said. 

Beef is Queensland’s highest-valued export commodity, served in top-end restaurants in global cities to family dinner tables and barbecues in more than 100 countries.

“By supporting the biggest industry event for beef producers, the Government is backing the beef sector to help drive the ambitious goal to increase the value of primary production to $30 billion by 2030,” the statement said.

State Primary Industries minister Tony Perrett said Beef 2027 would shine a spotlight on the nation’s beef producers and provide valuable opportunities for export and investment. 

“We made a commitment to back our beef producers and the communities that rely on them, and we are delivering on that promise with the largest investment into Beef 2027 to date,” Minister Perrett said. 

“As a grazier myself, Beef Week has been a highlight for my family – I’ve been attending this event since 1991 – and I’m enormously proud of the event it has become.” 

“In 12 months, this event will showcase our beef industry to domestic and international markets, opening doors for new export opportunities and attracting investment that will drive growth in our regions.” 

Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland said she was excited for Rocky to again be on the international map with attendees set to flock to the beef capital from all over the country and the world. 

“Beef is one of the best opportunities we have to showcase Central Queensland, and you’d be hard pressed to find a spare restaurant seat or motel room in town while it is on,” Ms Kirkland said. 

“The economic benefit to Central Queensland is enormous and the Queensland Government’s increased funding will allow the event to be bigger and better than ever, just like the now Premier promised when he made the announcement at the last beef week.” 

Beef Australia CEO Simon Irwin welcomed the increased funding and support.

“The support from the State Government means Beef 2027 can not only continue to celebrate the industry’s achievements and contribution to the Nation, but it will also make Beef2027 bigger and better,” Mr Irwin said.

“We feel strongly about holding the event in a regional city and our partnership with the State Government makes it possible for us to put on this international scale event in the heart of beef country. 

“We also want to acknowledge the advice and guidance the Department of Primary Industries provides, it’s integral to our event.”