S6 Ep18: Rocky readies for 2027's big beef bash, Simon Irwin

S6 Ep18: Rocky readies for 2027's big beef bash, Simon Irwin

From The Weekly Grill by Beef Central

June 12, 2026 · 28 min · Episode 232

About this episode

Kerry Lonergan interviews Simon Irwin about the upcoming Beef 2027 event and its implications for the beef industry.

This week on The Weekly Grill, host Kerry Lonergan sits down with Simon Irwin, CEO of Beef 2027, to talk about learnings from Beef 2024 and the plans for the next event in Rockhampton; they discuss record attendances, exhibitor demand, and the event's economic impact. The episode covers major challenges and innovations: accommodation shortages and solutions (Airbnb partnerships, Camplify and caravans), expanded tech and fifth‑quarter showcases, sustainability and emissions work, security and counter‑terrorism measures, and new digital tools like an interactive app. Also discussed are global interest and networking opportunities, Next Gen and mentoring programs for young ag professionals, the importance of interbreed championships, and why Beef remains central to regional Queensland. The Weekly Grill is brought to listeners by: Rhinogard and Bovi-Shield MH-One - the One Shot, One Spray, One Time BRD Vaccines by Zoetis. Ceres Tags Gen 6

People in this episode

Host: Kerry Lonergan

Guest: Simon Irwin

Topics covered

  • Beef industry
  • event planning
  • sustainability
  • technology in agriculture
  • regional economic impact
  • networking opportunities
  • mentoring programs

Keywords

  • Beef 2027
  • Rockhampton
  • Simon Irwin
  • sustainability
  • technology
  • networking
  • accommodation
  • interbreed championships
  • economic impact

Sponsors

Bovi-Shield MH-One, Rhinogard

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Beef 2027, Zoetis

Places: Rockhampton

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