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MLA’s call for new red meat ambassadors goes national

Sheep Central, August 31, 2022

A NATIONWIDE campaign to train and recruit new red meat ambassadors will start with a workshop in South Australia in October.

Meat & Livestock Australia is seeking ambassadors for the Red Meat Industry program and will hold a series of workshops in four states and the Northern Territory up to April 2023.

The workshops are offering people passionate about telling the great story of the Australian red meat industry to sharpen their communication skills as part of the program.

The 2022-23 Ambassadors workshops will be held in:

  • Adelaide, 12-14 October 2022
  • Victoria (location to be confirmed), 30 November – 2 December 2022
  • New South Wales, 1-3 March 2023
  • Northern Territory, 20-22 March 2023
  • Queensland, 19-21 April 2023

The program is now taking expressions for interest for the 2022-23 financial year. It is an intensive development opportunity that offers participants professional training in community engagement, communication through media and social media, and building trust with consumers.

MLA industry engagement manager Lindsay Kasprowicz said the most recent round of workshops were well-received by participants.

“More than 100 people from across the red meat value chain took part in the 2021-22 workshops, including producers and industry professionals as well as those from the processing, retail, feedlot, research, veterinarian, stock agency, technology and transport sectors,” she said.

“Once participants had completed the workshop, they were invited to join the program alumni and were provided with updates on MLA’s community engagement activities and given the opportunity to participate in those activities, including Virtual Classrooms and agricultural shows.”

Ms Kasprowicz said the program is focused on creating ambassadors who have the skills, knowledge and confidence to engage with the community across a range of activities.

“The program is ideal for anyone in the red meat supply chain who is passionate about community engagement and outreach, and are keen to build their skills in communication, building trust and engagement.

“Participants will gain new skills to effectively communicate with consumers in red meat production, industry sustainability and best practice farming,” she said.

“MLA’s consumer sentiment research shows our industry has great support from the Australian community but we need to be proactive in reaching out and engaging with them on the issues and concerns which matter most to them. This program will equip our industry’s finest to do just that.”

Kelly Nankivell from Tintinara in South Australia participated in the 2021-22 ambassadors workshops. She encouraged anyone in the red meat industry to apply for the program, whatever the stage of their career.

“The ambassadors program is relevant to everyone, whether you are hands-on with livestock or whether you work in an office.

“By participating in this program, you will be sure to develop your skills to build consumer trust,” Ms Nankivell said.

Find out more on the MLA website: MLA Ambassadors for the Red Meat Industry Program | Meat & Livestock Australia

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