NBA Beef Expo are set to host the Future Beef Farmer Challenge Competition

For the third year, the National Beef Association will be hosting the Future Beef Farmer Challenge Competition in conjunction with AHDB at the NBA Beef Expo in Stoneleigh on the 18th May 2017. The competition is aimed at getting the younger generation more involved with important aspects of beef production, with questionnaires surrounding genetics, selection, health and nutrition. This year’s hosts and sponsors for the relevant sections of the completion are Farmskills and XLVets (health), Berrystock Feeds (Nutrition) and AHDB Beef & Lamb (genetics and selection). 
Prizes included 1 years free membership for the NBA, FarmSkills training vouchers, Great Yorkshire show tickets and AHDB Beef & Lamb and FarmSkills goody bags. The winning team will be awarded the NBA’s Duke of Northumberland Trophy while the winner of the open class will receive the NBA Frank Momber Memorial Trophy. Competitors will be judged on carcass selection and their knowledge of nutrition, genetics and health, visiting trade stands of industry experts to demonstrate their skills in each sector.

Amy Fawcett, Knowledge Transfer Officer Beef and Lamb , AHDB commented on the Future Beef Farmer Challenge “AHDB are very pleased to be running the competition again at this years NBA Beef Expo, like the NBA we put a large focus in supporting the next generation of beef farmers coming through into the industry. We feel the competition is a great way of showcasing the talent of our young farmers as well as acting as a knowledge sharing exercise. With some great prizes on offer I would encourage all 16-36 year olds to sign up and get involved.”

NBA director Chris Mallon said: “There really is no competition like the Future Beef Challenge anywhere else in the UK and we’re delighted to host this competition at NBA Beef Expo 2017. We were pleased with the success of Future Beef Farmer Challenge last year and also in 2015, which attracted a high level of interest from both individuals and teams. To move forward within the industry it is very important to have an in-depth knowledge of the beef sector at both a practical and a scientific level. This competition is designed to challenge both, and we are thrilled that it is to become such an integral part of our annual NBA Beef Expo.” “Encouraging the next generation of progressive beef farmers is hugely important for the future sustainability of the industry, and it’s something we at the NBA are very keen to support.”

The competition comes as part of the National Beef Association’s recent campaign to embrace a new generation of beef farmers and the launch of their young member’s discount allowing those with an interest in the beef industry aged 16-25 to become a member for just £40 (standard membership is £75). Speaking about the new memberships, Rosie McGowan, Development Manager of the NBA said: “We are excited to encourage a new generation of farmers to become more involved in the work we carry out on behalf of the industry. The NBA’s key focus is to act as the voice of the Beef Industry and we feel it is vital that the younger generation are represented.”

The NBA Beef Expo aims to bring together the very best in British commercial and pedigree cattle, equipment, knowledge-sharing, and show classes for everyone involved in the industry. 
To sign up to the competition please visit the Beef Expo website to download the online booking form or entries can be made on the morning of the NBA Expo at the AHDB Beef & Lamb stand.