Beef Australia reveals their preliminary event program for Beef2027

Published 15 September 2026

Beef Australia has released the first preview of the Beef2027 event program, offering an early look at what’s ahead for Australia’s premier beef industry event.

Showcasing a massive week-long celebration of all things beef, the Beef2027 Preliminary Program reveals several new events coming to the triennial event in Rockhampton, Queensland, from 2 to 8 May 2027.

Beef Australia CEO Simon Irwin said releasing the preliminary program eight months ahead of the event was an exciting milestone for organisers, exhibitors and attendees.

“Beef2027 is set to be a landmark celebration of Australian beef, bringing together industry leaders, producers, stakeholders and beef enthusiasts from across Australia and around the world in just eight months’ time,” Mr Iwin said.

“The preliminary program gives Australia’s beef industry an early look at the events and experiences planned for Beef2027, helping attendees shape their week, plan with colleagues, and identify business opportunities before tickets go on sale.

“We’re excited to add new experiences to the Beef2027 calendar while bringing back the crowd favourites people know and love.

“Early bird tickets for social events will go on sale for Beef Australia members and our valued partners on 27 October, before going on sale to the public on 10 November.”

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP said:

“Beef2027 will once again bring Australia’s beef industry together to share ideas, build connections, and showcase the quality and innovation that makes our beef among the best in the world.

“Our Government was a proud sponsor for Beef2024, and we’re investing $12 million to deliver a bigger and better event in 2027.

“This investment acknowledges the significant contribution the beef industry makes to the national economy. With a $24.6 billion industry and growing demand for Australian beef around the globe, Beef2027 will be an important platform for producers, businesses and consumers to connect and create new opportunities.”

Queensland Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, has been a regular visitor of the event since 1991 and said the Beef2027 Preliminary Program gives an exciting first look at what promises to be another outstanding event for Queensland beef sector.

“In Queensland Beef is big business, our state is home to almost half of Australia’s herd so we’re proud to back in Beef2027 and reinforce Rockhampton’s reputation as Australia’s Beef Capital.

“Beef Australia’s event has been a highlight for my family for decades and I’ve seen this event grow into a world-class showcase.  The start of the preliminary program is an exciting milestone in the run up to next year’s event.

“The Crisafulli Government’s support delivers on a key election commitment and is part of our plan to grow the value of primary industries production to $30 billion by 2030.”

Beef2027 program highlights:

1. Introduction of the Fifth Quarter precinct: For the first time in its history, Beef Australia will showcase the growing market for premium products derived from the ‘fifth quarter ‘– those valuable components beyond traditional meat cuts that are creating exciting opportunities in health, nutrition, wellness and advanced manufacturing. The Fifth Quarter at Beef2027 will be a dedicated precinct showcasing the next frontier of value creation from red meat, where nutrition, health and innovation converge.
2. Addition of two new social functions: Beef2027 will introduce a refreshed social program in addition to returning crowd favourites including the National Press Club Lunch, offering guests rare access to one of Australia’s exclusive media traditions, and the Sunday Night Concert, giving attendees a lively way to kick off their event week.
3. Expansion of dining offerings: Beef2027 will introduce a fresh take on the Celebrity Chef Program with the launch of the Chef’s Table Restaurant, a stand-out dining experience led by award-winning chef Tom Hitchcock. The Restaurant will feature premium Australian beef from leading producers, prepared using a variety of cuts and cooking techniques and turned into a thoughtfully curated menu. The Reserve Lounge will also debut at Beef2027, offering a more relaxed dining experience to complement the Chef’s Table Restaurant.
4. Cattle competitions: Watch Australia’s premier national stud and commercial cattle competitions that exemplify the exceptional standards and capabilities of Australia’s beef industry.
5. Return of the International Program: The International Program will return to Beef2027 connecting international delegates with leading Australian beef industry stakeholders, including producers, processors and suppliers. The program will showcase the best of Australia’s beef industry to visiting international delegates and focus on building trade opportunities to strengthen global connections and outcomes.
6. Thought-provoking seminars and property tours: Engage in stimulating discussions and gain valuable insights from industry thought leaders, experts, and researchers both in the room and in practical application on tour.
7. Showcasing the latest in ag-tech: Witness the Finalists of Beef Australia’s Pitch In The Paddock competition pitch their innovative beef-centric business idea, prototype, or new technology to a panel of judges with a $10,000 cash prize up for grabs. A buzzing showcase of the latest and up and coming ag tech solutions will also feature in the Tech & Innovation Hub, with a daily program of demonstrations and Tech Talks.
8. Connecting students and families with Australia’s beef industry: The Meat & Livestock Australia School’s Program will welcome schools from across Australia to participate in a range of events and programs at Beef2027, through a series of curriculum-aligned, hands-on, and engaging educational sessions. A dedicated Kids’ Zone will also return, where the whole family can learn about the importance of agriculture and sustainable food production, and enjoy the weeklong kids’ entertainment program.
9. World-Class Trade Fair: Wander through 500+ trade fair exhibits across four precincts at the Beef Australia Trade Fair – your gateway to innovation, connection, genetics, machinery, and lifestyle.

View the full Beef2027 Preliminary Program on Beef Australia’s website at www.beefaustralia.com.au.

Beef Australia is proudly presented by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government.

ENDS