22 Emerging Beef Industry Leaders Selected for ABL Program
The 2026/2027 Advancing Beef Leaders cohort hails from four states and territories.
The 2026/27 cohort of the Advancing Beef Leaders (ABL) Program has been unveiled, with 22 leaders from Queensland, the Northern Territory, northern New South Wales and northern Western Australia selected to take part in the 12-month leadership development opportunity.
Delivered by the ABL Foundation, the program is welcoming a new intake of emerging beef industry leaders from across northern Australia. The cohort includes beef producers and industry professionals from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to a strong and sustainable sector.
“I’m so impressed by our 2026/27 cohort,” ABL Foundation Executive Officer, Alison Larard, said.
“They stand out for their passion, drive and belief in what they do. These leaders are ready not only to accelerate their own careers, but to build the practical leadership skills needed to make a positive impact in their businesses, communities and across the industry.”
“This is the second year our participants represent cattle producing regions across four states and territories, and we’re continuing to strengthen both new and existing partnerships,” she said.
“We’re grateful for the ongoing support of Queensland’s DPI and the backing of our industry partners and sponsors.”
The new cohort will begin their first program session in Darwin in June, where they will also help celebrate the graduation of the outgoing 2025/26 cohort.
Meet the 2026/2027 cohort
Southern Queensland
James Copley
Joe Hennessy
Jessica Maunder
Ella Palmer
Harriet Taylor
Ricky Van Zwieten
Ella Watkins
Northern NSW
Jack Blaine
Jemima Ellen St Leger Erskine
Kiara Henderson
Marshall Roland Partridge
Northern Queensland
Madelaine Angus
Barbara Colls
Jane Evans
Alex Greg Jacobson
Ashleigh Kilgannon
Alice Nicholas
John Salmond
Northern Territory
Ellen Easy
Stacey Holzapfel
Northern WA
Tahree Kammann
D'Arne Wilde
