Industry expertise benefits Goondiwindi region livestock businesses

Livestock businesses in the Goondiwindi region will be at the forefront of their industry after a series of successful industry-endorsed workshops on cattle handling and transport, says Goondiwindi Regional Council Chief Executive Officer Carl Manton.

Nearly 50 farmers, livestock business owners and workers heard from renowned cattle handling expert Tom Shephard over three days of free workshops in Goondiwindi.

Goondiwindi Regional Council developed the training sessions with local business leaders to meet the needs of the livestock transport industry and the Goondiwindi region community. The Queensland Government’s Regional Skills Investment Strategy (RSIS) program funded the workshops in partnership with the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training.

Following the success of the Goondiwindi workshops, industry and State Government will now consider how similar training may be rolled out to other regions across Queensland.

Mr Manton attended the opening of the workshop series and said the success of the sessions showed the importance of tailoring training to the needs of local businesses.

“Everything from the content to the delivery of these workshops has been designed by industry, for industry,” Mr Manton said.

“The Goondiwindi RSIS project identifies the training needs within our region and enables Council to work together with industry for a common goal - in this instance, the need for safe and efficient livestock handling right across the supply chain.

“The terrific success of these three days of expert training is a great example of what can happen when Council and local businesses collaborate together.”

The one-day workshops focused on understanding cattle behaviour, handling techniques for road transport, safer work practices and animal health and welfare. The training was delivered by renowned cattleman and consultant Tom Shephard of Efficient Stockhandling Solutions, who has more than 20 years of experience managing cattle stations around Australia. 

All participants received a certificate upon completion of the workshop in recognition of their training.

Senator for Queensland and Chair of Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Legislation Committee Susan McDonald attended the opening of the three workshops, along with President of the Queensland Trucking Association Gary Mahon.

“I’d like to thank Frasers Livestock Transport, the Queensland Trucking Association and the Queensland Government for their support in the delivery of these workshops,” Mr Manton said.

“I must also give special mention to Smithfield Cattle Co and Cunningham Cattle Co for supplying the cattle for the workshops’ practical elements.”

Photo attached includes: Various participants
Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, Mayor of Goondiwindi Regional Council
Cr Susie Kelly, Goondiwindi Regional Council
Senator for Queensland and Chair of Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Legislation Committee Susan McDonald
President of the Queensland Trucking Association Gary Mahon
Sam Noon, Goondiwindi Regional Council, RSIS Coordinator