2020 // The old saying rings true, “it’s an ill wind that blows no good at all…”
Throughout the tough times, and there are many, it’s amazing to see that our industry never fails to band together and continue to prove we are adaptable, supportive, productive and resilient in all facets of business. With all we’ve experienced this year as producers and business owners, I must start by saying how grateful we are for the ongoing support we have received from our clients, resellers and industry leaders. From this, we have been able to continue to do what we love and wholeheartedly believe in and move forward to a much brighter future. But like everyone, to say it’s been a challenging year, would be nothing short of an understatement.
It’s undeniable that 2020 is a year that will go down in history as a defining year. Yes, the first response will always be the COVID-19 pandemic, but the trade war with China that is continuing to escalate as the end of 2020 looms, is yet another defining saga for Australia and the livestock industry in 2020. We also cannot forget the horrific bushfires from earlier in the year. What a hand we’ve been dealt!
As an Australian businessman, I believe there are some long-term positives to come from the disruption to the ‘normal’ lifestyles that we once knew. One positive is that we now again have the opportunity for our industry to be nurtured and grown, and continue to be recognised as an integral part of business in Australia. Especially now as we realise the vulnerable position we find ourselves in from the impacts of the changes to the import and export market. From all perspectives, both rural and city, it can be agreed that we must look to diversify our trading partners overseas so we are not dependent on one market, which as livestock producers, we know to be sound business sense. We have all experienced a fall in the value of our livestock when one buyer has a monopoly. These same principles apply.
On the other side of the coin, we now see an exciting “consequence” with the strong push to buy Australian to help mitigate our dependence on overseas suppliers. This is a very positive swing in opinion from our multi-cultural population, something we would have struggled to achieve without being faced with a pandemic. It goes without saying that those of you that know me, will know that I have a very long and proud association with the livestock industry in Australia, being from the land myself, it has always been my belief that Australian livestock producers are among the best in the world. We are resourceful, and this can be seen in the ways we continue to adapt to the ever changing weather patterns as a part of our daily norm.
If we are to succeed in the future, Australian businesses must be efficient and be able to compete in the worldwide markets. We as livestock producers must also prove that we are not only excelling in providing a top grade product but that the livestock industry is also sustainable into the future. This is something our team at Beachport, and myself, are truly committed to. The pandemic has certainly taken centre stage to the conversation on methane and the environment, to an extent, but these issues still exist and it’s now time for the livestock industry to take the lead and move towards positive change with sustainability at the forefront, for our environment, for the future.
I, and the Beachport team are excited and motivated for the future! The very reason Beachport began was to help make the livestock industry more sustainable, more efficient, to improve animal welfare and all while providing great results and a better bottom line for Australian producers. We’re extremely proud to be leading the way with our unique and natural formulation of seagrass and kelps. Plus, as a concentrate form, Beachport is a far more environmentally friendly and sustainable long term solution to livestock supplementation as well as one that gets results, and has runs on the board.
Sustainability is vital for success in the future for our industry, and the environment. Especially when we look specifically at the red meat industry which has been a hot topic of concern when considering the environmental impacts from our industry. 2021 will provide the opportunity for conversation and education from industry leaders for everyone, including our city cousins, so we can all better understand, and in turn, dispel some concerns around the impacts the red meat industry has on the environment. We also have the opportunity to look at implementing innovational solutions for long term success and sustainability. A win for our industry, the environment and our future.
Again, we would like to extend a massive thank you to everyone who has supported Beachport this year, and since its inception. The new year will mark 15 years of Beachport Liquid Minerals and Chris and I are excited to be getting back on the road, to enjoy what we like best, spending time talking to you and we hope to see as many of you as we can see in 2021.
From Chris, myself and the Beachport team we would like to wish all rural resellers, business partners and clients a very merry Christmas and a safe and happy 2021, here’s to the new year!
– Kym Sutherland // December 2020