It’s not often we get the chance to return to our roots, but in May this year, we did just that by hosting the Casino Beef Week Industry Dinner. Our story started in 1951 at the Casino Food Co-op (formerly the Northern Co-operative Meat Company), when our founder, JR McDonald, commenced work in livestock and cattle buying. The Dinner, a regular on the Casino Beef Week calendar, was a wonderful opportunity to look back at the journey that’s brought the Bindaree team to where we are now, reminisce on our growth, and honour the Australian cattle industry.
The launch of our newest brand, JR The Founder, was a highlight, especially with the presence of John Lee, Bindaree’s first employee from its beginnings in Casino. Following a meal showcasing our finest beef, an industry discussion moderated by Larry Anthony AO was held. Ripley Atkinson of Stone X Group and Bindaree CEO Andrew McDonald delved into various topics, including cattle prices, labour structures, and the future of the cattle industry, offering insights that kept the audience engaged. The night ended with 10 excited guests taking home Bindaree Tomahawk Steaks in a lucky draw.
In line with Bindaree’s Culture of Care, we proudly raised $6,000 for Jumbunna Community Preschool through a live auction led by Alan Ramsey at the dinner and by donating all proceeds from our Beef Week Saturday mechanical bull.
“Casino Beef Week was thrilled to have Bindaree Food Group come on board as a Major Sponsor for Beef Week 2024. Their support has been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing this fantastic partnership in the future. Their involvement has truly elevated Beef Week 2024, and we are grateful for their unwavering commitment to our event and our community.” – Brody Lisha, President, Casino Beef Week.
Bindaree congratulates the Casino Beef Week team for an outstanding celebration. We look forward to next year!
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Pictured left to right: Ryan McDonald (Livestock Manager, Monbeef), Andrew McDonald (CEO, Bindaree Food Group), Matisse McDonald (Boning Room, Bindaree), Larry Anthony AO (SAS Group), Ripley Atkinson (Manager, Australian livestock & commodities Stone X Group), Noeline Olive (Jumbunna Board President), Nerrida Kyle (Head of People & Culture, Bindaree Food Group), Karen McDermott (Jumbunna General Manager), Cheryl Simpkins (Jumbunna Board Secretary), Steve Morrissey (Jumbunna Board Vice President)