Cyclone Marcia fails to stop Beef 2015 progress

"It may be down after tropical Cyclone Marcia, but the city is definitely not out," he said.

"The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) is a major sponsor of this important industry event, and the Queensland government will be providing a one-stop shop of services for visitors.

"I look forward to welcoming visitors to my town of Rockhampton when the event kicks off on Monday, May 4.

Mr Byrne said DAF would be in Rockhampton in strength this year, with a range of services and advice for producers coming to the beef expo.

"There will be a series of seminars and 'campfire sessions' on topics ranging from nutrition, genetics, best-management practice and biosecurity to farm safety. There will also be local property tours where our beef work will be profiled.

"We are looking forward to working with the Beef Australia 2015 organisers and meeting as many visiting producers and overseas representatives as possible."

Meanwhile, Beef Australia CEO Denis Cox was delighted to host an impromptu visit by Queensland shadow agriculture minister Deb Frecklington last week.

Mr Cox said it was terrific to engage with the member for Nanango and was delighted with the interest she had shown in the forthcoming event.

With just seven weeks until the event opens, tickets are now on sale for the Westpac Agribusiness Property Tours Program, promising to inspire visitors with an up-close look at leading central Queensland stud and commercial operations.

Mr Cox said the program included a mixture of half and full-day bus tours, as well as two 'platinum-level' helicopter tours.

"Guides and property owners will provide detailed insight into the operations, inspiring the adoption of innovation among industry peers, while showcasing the capability of our Australian agribusiness service sector to international visitors," Mr Cox said. - Picture: HELEN WALKER.