Minderoo meets with lotfeeders

The group met with WA Lot Feeders Association (WALFA) representatives on Monday to discuss the future of boxed beef exports.

WALFA president Trevor Hinck said the meet-and-greet opened the lines of communication with the new owner -which is a step in the right direction.

"From meeting representatives from the Minderoo Group, I can tell lotfeeders that the news is positive," Mr Hinck said.

"We had discussions about the direction of Minderoo's Harvey Beef.

"They are still finding their feet, however I think Andrew Forrest would have a clear idea of what demand is in China from his contacts.

"I think he didn't buy Harvey Beef, for 'business as usual', I think there will be some changes, and I believe they will be positive for the future."

Although there was no clear guide or specifications from the meeting, one thing was clear, Mr Forrest wants to see supply grow as demand increases in China.

Mr Hinck said it was a numbers game, especially when competing with live export.

"We are at a turning point in the industry, and the future is bright," he said.

"Once they get settled in, design a business plan and we get a big enough herd together, we will see growth in exporting boxed beef.

"It is time to build, and it's up to the industry to build."

Lotfeeders are unsure of the demands, requirements and specifications on size and type to supply all year round – but Mr Hinck said it was early days and further communication would continue to build on the relationship between Minderoo and WA lotfeeders.

"There is a breakdown in the supply chain at the moment," he said.

"We discussed this, and looked at future plans to build up to have a constant supply 12 months of the year.

"It will take time, but talks such as these are important."

WALFA has invited the Minderoo Group to its next committee meeting, to introduce the rest of the committee, discuss the group's future plans and have discussions with lotfeeders and the cow and calf producers.