Constituency Statements – Gympie Carcass Classic – Speech in the Federation Chamber 12/08/2026

Mr LLEW O’BRIEN (Wide Bay) (09:54): I congratulate the Gympie Beef Group for hosting the 2026 Gympie Carcass Classic, which recently celebrated its 39th year of supporting beef producers and industry professionals across Wide Bay. The event brings together participants of all ages, from high-school students to experienced cattle producers, to highlight the important role Wide Bay plays in Queensland’s world-class beef industry. Established in 1987, the Gympie Carcass Classic has become one of Queensland’s premier educational cattle competitions. Through learning and collaboration, the event helps producers better understand market specifications, consumer expectations and emerging industry trends. This ensures our beef industry remains innovative and competitive.

I acknowledge the efforts of the organisers and sponsors, particularly Dan Sullivan and the Nolan family, and commend Hayden Pratt, Emma and Sheryl Franz, Amy Atkinson and the committee for their dedicated and hard work in delivering another outstanding classic. I presented the Highest MSA Index Score (Eating Quality) category award to Devils View Angus and congratulate them on also winning the High Scoring Angus x Charbray category award, which is a testament to their dedication to quality production and excellence in the beef industry. To everyone involved in this year’s Gympie Carcass Classic, thank you for your contribution to one of Australia’s most important industries.