Remembering David Warriner: A Pillar of Northern Australia’s Cattle Industry

The northern cattle industry is mourning the loss of one of its most respected, dedicated, and tenacious leaders, following the death of David Warriner on Friday after a long battle with illness.

Mr. Warriner served as president of the Northern Territory Cattlemens Association from 2012 to 2015 and of the Northern Territory Livestock Exporters Association from 2016 until 2021.

His leadership style was characterized by fearless, straight-talking advocacy, a deep commitment to industry unity, and a clear and positive vision for unlocking the north’s potential.

As a long-serving chair of both the NTCA and the NTLEA, he consistently championed the need for producers to receive a viable price to remain profitable, while pushing governments to foster a political, legal, and regulatory environment conducive to quality northern food production.

Warriner was outspoken in his criticism of a political system that allowed short-term agendas to block progress, advocating instead for bipartisan support for land tenure reform, investment-friendly policies, and practical infrastructure planning to help northern Australia meet the demands of Asia’s rising middle class.

He encouraged producers and exporters to work in unison, emphasizing that “nothing assists industry quite like a united voice” when engaging with government.

NT industry organizations have a reputation for punching above their weight, and David Warriner’s forceful and entertaining speeches at the association’s annual conferences personified the straight-shooting, no-nonsense focus of the northern cattle industry.

The son of one of the NTCA’s founding presidents and former Consolidated Pastoral Co Chief Executive Ken Warriner, David was an integral part of the fabric of the Northern Territory cattle industry, having personally experienced its highs and lows.

Born in Alice Springs, Mr. Warriner began his career as a jackeroo in the Top End with Consolidated Pastoral Co. Together with his wife Gina, he managed Nockatunga Station in the channel country, worked for the company’s processing and meat trading division, and ran Tipperary Station. He also managed northern property portfolios for several offshore owners and operated a successful agribusiness consultancy.

Many friends and former colleagues have paid tribute to David as a skilled stockman and pilot, describing him as a deep thinker and an encouraging mentor. His commanding presence was felt wherever he went, from cattle yards to corporate offices in Canberra.

Mr. Warriner’s contributions to the northern cattle industry were formally recognized at the 2025 NTCA conference when he was awarded Life Membership of the organization.

Tracey Hayes, who served as NTCA CEO during David’s tenure as president, hailed him as a “great champion of industry” who never compromised on his values.

“David had an enormous passion and commitment to representing the interests of pastoralists. He stayed true to his roots regardless of where he was,” Hayes stated.

Reflecting on his character, Hayes noted, “He could possibly have been perceived as serious, but he was a real softy at heart, and his true great love was his family.”

David Warriner, Tracey Hayes, and David Crombie at the 2025 NTCA gala dinner.

David was president of the NTCA when the industry launched a class action against the Federal Government’s 2011 suspension of live cattle exports to Indonesia, resulting in a Federal Court finding that the Government acted illegally. Despite the court’s ruling, the Federal Government has yet to pay damages to the affected parties.

Northern Territory Livestock Exporters Association chair Nick Thorne expressed grief over the loss, calling David an “incredibly good leader” who was able to motivate and align differing factions within the industry.

Thorne remarked, “He was the main person responsible for the rebuilding of the Berrimah export yards, which is now a showpiece for the northern cattle industry.”

David was a valued mentor for many up-and-coming leaders. Will Evans, who served as CEO of the NTLEA under David before becoming CEO of the NTCA, recognized David’s impact, stating, “He was a strong leader who expected much but was always ready to help when needed.”

Alister Trier, from the NT Government, recalled David’s strong commitment to the cattle industry and the importance he placed on family, honesty, and courage.

David was not only a passionate leader but also a skilled pilot, and many fondly remembered his daring flying style.

Australian Livestock Exporters Council (ALEC) Statement

The Australian Livestock Exporters Council (ALEC) has paid tribute to David Warriner as one of the key contributors to the live cattle export industry. His role as president of the NTCA from 2012 to 2015 was defined by his fierce advocacy for the industry.

“David stood up for the rights of graziers affected by the ban on live cattle exports and made it his mandate to rectify the consequences of that decision,” said ALEC chair David Galvin.

After his tenure at NTCA, he became chair of the NTLEA in 2016, consistently advocating for the industry’s significance and the importance of working collectively.

“We owe David a great debt for his efforts,” Galvin added. “His contribution to our industry will never be forgotten.”

On behalf of the Australian live export industry, condolences are extended to the Warriner family during this difficult time.