After 50 years of service, senior beef extension officer Alan Laing is retiring from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
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Alan is well-known in beef circles and has been based in north Queensland for most of his career.
Research in nutrition has made considerable advances particularly over the last 30 years, according to Alan.
“I am proud to have played a significant role in that,” he said.
“To all in the beef industry, including beef producers and all advisers, I recommend taking notice of what has been proven and do not try to re-invent the wheel.”
Alan also said genetic information on beef’s economic traits of production have increased significantly.
“Producers using this technology are making profitable progress in their business,” he said.
“I am happy to have played and will continue to play a role in this aspect of beef production.”
Alan will not be completely retiring as he plans to continue working as an independent beef and cattle consultant.
DAF science director for beef and sheep Bob Karfs acknowledged Alan’s contribution to the department and to the beef industry.
“Alan’s knowledge of the northern Australian beef industry, its people, history, landscapes and productive potential is second-to-none,” Mr Karfs said.
“His willingness to impart his understanding is well recognised by producers and staff alike and he has a special knack of making projects work often in challenging circumstances.”
Mr Karfs added Alan had been based in north Queensland for most of his career, starting out as a cadet with the Department of Primary Industries in 1968.
“Alan has been involved in many programs for the department including breeder herd management, artificial insemination programs, grazing trials, cattle supplement trials and stockhorse breeding.
“He has also led many producer demonstration site projects, which have been important in demonstrating the practical outcomes from research to achieve practice change among producers.”
Another key achievement is his contribution to the Northern Muster newsletter, which he edited for 21 years (1990 to 2011). The Northern Muster is an important tool of the extension process, providing objective information on all aspects of beef cattle production.
“I would like to thank Alan for his service to the department and leading us through many challenges over the last 50 years,” Mr Karfs said.
“We will miss his expertise and practical way of getting things done.”