News - Bindaree Food Group

Bindaree Beef is celebrating three decades of operations in Inverell, marking a milestone built on regional jobs, local partnerships and a deep connection to the Northern Tablelands and New England communities. Since opening the Inverell facility in 1995, Bindaree has contributed more than $1.25 billion in wages into local households, shops, schools and small businesses, reinforcing its role as a major economic engine for the region.

Three decades of local impact

Over 30 years, the Inverell site has grown to become the largest employer in the region, partnering with more than 5,000 cattle producers and processing over 7 million head of cattle. In that time, the facility has produced more than 2 billion kilograms of beef, supporting both Australian customers and export markets while helping underpin the local economy.

Bindaree’s roots stretch back more than 40 years to its early operations in Casino, but it was in Inverell that founder John R. “JR” McDonald put a bold regional vision into practice. By backing a country town and building a world-class processing facility, JR created a business that local families, employees and producers could stand behind for the long term.

Built by thousands of hands

Bindaree Food Group Chief Executive Officer Andrew McDonald, JR’s son, describes the 30-year milestone as a tribute to the people who have shaped the business over time. He points to the hard work and resilience of thousands of team members who have contributed to the growth of the Inverell operation and helped establish Bindaree as a leading name in Australian beef.

For Andrew and the leadership team, the anniversary is as much about community as it is about cattle and capacity. The business recognises that its success is intertwined with the region’s producers, local businesses and families who have supported Bindaree across three decades.

From Inverell to the world

While Inverell represents the longest chapter in the Bindaree story, the site now anchors a broader national and international network. Today, Bindaree Food Group’s operations span Croppa Creek, Cooma, Burleigh Heads, Brisbane and Sydney, along with overseas offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai and London, connecting regional Australia to the world.

Across this network, Bindaree employs more than 1,300 people and operates a vertically integrated paddock-to-plate supply chain focused on premium beef, food safety, animal welfare, sustainability and community. The company’s ongoing investment in people, process and partnerships continues to position Inverell at the heart of a modern, globally connected agri-food business.

Capturing the stories behind the numbers

To mark the 30-year milestone, Bindaree has released a short video featuring reflections from Andrew and team members across the business. The piece highlights key achievements, personal stories and the sense of pride shared by those who have helped build Bindaree Beef in Inverell over the past three decades.

Bindaree invites you to look back on what has been achieved together and to share in the excitement for what comes next.

Regional collaboration giving producers clearer feedback, stronger connections and a reason to celebrate.

When Bindaree Food Group and Colin Say & Co launched their feedlot trial in 2024, the goal was simple: create a practical way for commercial producers to see how their cattle perform all the way through to carcase. Just a year on, entry numbers doubled and the trial has become a key date on the calendar for breeders across the New England and North West of NSW.

Cattle entered in the program are inducted into Bindaree’s Myola Feedlot and fed for 100 to 120 days, across clearly defined classes that reflect real grain‑fed market opportunities. Throughout the program, teams track growth, feed efficiency, marbling and yield, turning day‑to‑day feedlot performance and carcase data into meaningful feedback for each participating producer.

For Bindaree and Colin Say & Co, that information is not just numbers on a page – it is a direct link between on‑farm decisions and the beef reaching domestic and export customers. The trial helps identify cattle that combine performance, carcase quality and eating quality traits, supporting the consistent, big‑flavoured beef that underpins Bindaree’s brand promise.

The annual awards dinner brought this story to life, turning data into a shared celebration of the people behind the cattle. Hosted in Inverell, the evening brought together producers, agents, sponsors and the Bindaree and Colin Say & Co teams to recognise stand‑out pens and individual animals, as well as the effort it took to get them there.

This year the event was guided by MC, Lindsay Douglas, and featured a panel discussion with Bindaree’s CEO, Andrew McDonald, General Manager Livestock, Zac McInerney, and Colin Say & Co Agent, Ben McMahon.

The atmosphere in the room reflected that mix of insight and enjoyment – from the moment guests sat down to plates of Bindaree’s big, bold beef, the focus was on connection and pride in the region’s product. Behind the trophies and photos was a strong sense of community, with families, younger producers and long‑term clients all represented at the tables.

Sponsors also played an important role in making the trial and the dinner possible, backing everything from data capture and animal health through to livestock transport and venue logistics. Their support helps ensure the program can keep evolving, expanding classes and refining the way feedback is presented to producers in future years.

By opening Myola’s gates to more entries, sharing objective feedback and creating space to celebrate the results, the program is strengthening the link between paddock and plate and rewarding the producers who are committed to lifting the bar, year after year.

Last week, Bindaree Food Group proudly returned to Casino Beef Week, highlighting our ongoing commitment to the Australian beef industry and the communities that power it.

Headlining the Industry Dinner

As naming sponsor of the 2025 Casino Beef Week Industry Dinner, Bindaree welcomed more than 90 industry enthusiasts for an evening of insight, connection, and community spirit.

The evening featured a compelling panel discussion moderated by the Hon Larry Anthony AO, with Bindaree’s CEO Andrew McDonald, and General Sales Manager Yuki Qian, and Stone X Group’s Ripley Atkinson. Together, they tackled key issues including global trade shifts, evolving customer demands, and the importance of a strong domestic supply chain.

“Our industry is going through rapid change, from tariff shifts to changing customer expectations,” said Andrew McDonald. “Bringing leaders together to have frank, forward-looking conversations is essential, and Casino Beef Week is the perfect platform.”

Making a Local Impact

A highlight of the night was our record-breaking community benefit auction, led by local auctioneer Allen Ramsay. Thanks to generous attendees, over $5,000 was raised for Casino-based Momentum Collective Neighbourhood Centre, supporting critical services – including domestic violence support, disability services, and housing assistance.

“This kind of impact is why we do what we do,” said Andrew McDonald. “It’s a privilege to support organisations that are changing lives right here in our community.”

Celebrating Paddock-to-Plate

The dinner also shone a spotlight on our Bindaree Butchery program, a 70-Day Grain Fed program that reflects our commitment to quality, consistency, and traceability. From sourcing yearling cattle across the country, to finishing at Myola Feedlot, and processing at the Casino Food Company, it’s a program built on true paddock-to-plate values.

We were proud to host several of our Bindaree Butchery customers from across QLD, TAS, SA, and WA, each of who shared their unique story on camera – highlighting what Bindaree’s customer-focused model means to them. Watch their story below.

Mechanical Bull Riding and Mental Health Awareness

The Bindaree Mechanical Bull made a much-anticipated return at the Super Saturday Street Festival, drawing crowds and laughter despite the rain. More importantly, it helped raise over $700 for Beyond Blue, supporting mental health awareness in rural and regional communities.

As an official business supporter of Beyond Blue, Bindaree is proud to help bring vital mental health conversations to the forefront of our industry – because our farmers, producers and rural workers deserve strong support, too. Click here to help as reach our $10,000 fundraising goal!

Bindaree Food Group today announced a new partnership with Meat Business Women Australia at the Annual Meat Business Women Conference in Brisbane, a strategic step in our commitment to building a more inclusive, connected and future-focused meat industry.

Through this partnership, Bindaree joins a global network of industry leaders working to elevate diversity and leadership capability across the meat supply chain. Team members across Bindaree’s operations will gain greater access to mentoring, leadership pathways, and cross-industry engagement opportunities.

Andrew McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of Bindaree Food Group, said the decision reflects the company’s long-term people strategy.

“Sustainable success in our industry depends on strong, diverse leadership,” McDonald said. “Partnering with Meat Business Women is part of our commitment to backing our people and ensuring we’re creating opportunities for talent to grow, from the processing floor to the boardroom.”

Speaking at the event, Rebecca Kelson, General Manager of Retail Operations at Bindaree, highlighted the practical value of the partnership.

“This isn’t just a symbolic gesture. It’s a step toward real capability-building,” Kelson said. “We want to ensure our people have the right networks, support and visibility to lead with confidence and contribute meaningfully to the future of the industry.”

The Meat Business Women partnership adds to Bindaree’s broader focus on workforce development, innovation, and building resilience across our fully integrated supply chain with people at the centre of our progress.

About Meat Business Women
Founded in 2015, Meat Business Women is the global professional network for women working across the meat industry, recognised by the United Nations for its efforts to improve sustainability and grow the pipeline of female talent in this traditionally male-dominated field. With strategic support from major supply chain partners, Meat Business Women continues to champion diversity and innovation within the meat industry. Click Here to learn more.

About Bindaree Food Group
Bindaree Food Group is one of Australia’s leading meat processing and supply chain companies, operating across livestock procurement, processing, sales and distribution. With a focus on quality, innovation and people, Bindaree is helping shape the future of Australian red meat, from paddock to plate.

Back for seconds: Bindaree Food Group returns to Casino to serve up another unmissable Industry Dinner.

We’re proud to announce our return as the presenting sponsor of the 2025 Casino Beef Week Industry Dinner.

Taking place on Thursday 29 May at the Clydesdale Motel Steakhouse, the renowned Industry Dinner will again bring together leaders, producers and local patrons to celebrate the beef industry that drives the Northern New South Wales agricultural trade.

After a sizzling debut as Presenting Sponsor last year, Bindaree has an unwavering appetite to return in 2025.

“The energy, community and ambition at last year’s dinner was outstanding, and we knew we’d be back for a second helping,” says Andrew McDonald, Bindaree Food Group CEO. “The Industry Dinner is more than just good food – it’s about bringing together the best minds in beef, sparking conversation, celebrating success and planning for the future.”

Casino has been a foundational part of Bindaree’s heritage and operations since 1981, playing a key role in both service and production.

In recent years, Bindaree has reinforced its commitment to the region through strategic investments, including a three-year service contract with the Casino Co-op and the launch of Bindaree Butchery, an exclusive wholesale, 70 Day Grain fed product coming out of the Casino Co-op since 2023.

The Industry Dinner will feature a panel of notable industry guests, with speakers and ticket sale dates set to be announced soon as Thursday 29 May approaches.

At Bindaree Food Group, International Women’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar, it’s a reminder of our ongoing drive to build an inclusive and equitable workplace. This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, is reflected in the steps we’re taking to champion gender equality across our business and the wider industry.

Reflecting on Our International Women’s Day Initiatives

#AccelerateAction Webinar

Following our successful International Women’s Day webinar on March 17th, we’re excited to share some of the highlights and celebrate our progress. This year’s webinar featured insights from:

Stacey McKenna: Australian Chair of Meat Business Women, Stacey shared her extensive industry experience and passion for elevating women’s roles while driving greater inclusivity.
Salliann Powell: A physiotherapy practice manager and mother of three, Salliann gave us a glimpse into her extraordinary journey to become the first Australian to complete all five Racing the Planet desert ultramarathons in a single year—all while raising funds for the Nerve Connection Foundation.
Zac McInerney: Our General Manager – Grainfed Supply, Zac reflected on his experience in the beef industry, spoke about leading a team of predominantly women at Bindaree, and his commitment as a leader to accelerate action on inclusion and diversity.

Some key takeaways from our Webinar included:

From a national perspective, why gender equality is so important including the benefits such as human rights, economics, societal and profitability for business’s.
The main factors that impact gender equality including the gender pay gap, workplace bias, leadership representation, care work disparity, harassment, gender norms and domestic and family violence.
What key changes are happening in our government and from a legislation perspective that impact out business and industry (including WGEA reporting).
Statistics and data from our industry, including that woman only represent 33.5% of the meat industry, the goal for the Food Business Charter is to reach 40% female representation by 2035. Further the industry is seeing little improvement in the first -line manager, skilled and unskilled level of work.
Practical tips for our businesses and individuals on what they can do to achieve better gender equality including:
- Appointing a senior diversity and inclusion lead
- Benchmark your business stats against industry averages
- Building an inclusive culture
It takes everyone, men and women, to achieve genuine change when it comes to gender equality.
The importance of recognising both men and women’s caring responsibilities and priorities.
The importance of supporting women and their careers, particularly when it comes to taking maternity leave and re-entering the workforce.
Ensuring not to be gender bias when recruiting and promoting, it should be about the best candidate, who is the most competent.
Some great advice when it comes to taking on a challenge such as “get out of your comfort zone” and the “importance of setting small goals”.
What Bindaree is doing to #accelerateaction, reflecting on what we have in place, including our Gender Equality Strategy, Paid Parental Leave Policy, Domestic Violence Leave, Respectful Workplace Plan and flexible work opportunities. We discussed what was next for Bindaree in regards to gender equality, including making a clear commitment, engage with our workforce, continue to communicate and educate our leaders and workforce, incorporate gender equality into all areas of our business and in general – a commitment to continuous improvement.

Empowering Women in the Meat Industry

Bindaree is committed to driving meaningful change in an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated. As Rebecca Kelson, our General Manager of Retail Operations, highlighted in a recent interview with Australian Meat Processor Corporation’s (AMPC) More to Meat campaign:

“Leaders need to commit to clear strategies that support gender equality, including equal pay and career pathways for women.”

Rebecca oversees Bindaree Food Solutions in Burleigh Heads, QLD, our retail-ready site supported by Bindaree’s processing plants. As part of our leadership team, she advocates alongside her colleagues for creating opportunities for women and values mentorship and coaching in supporting career growth.

At Bindaree, gender equality isn’t just a conversation – it’s an action. Policies such as Paid Parental Leave, Flexible Work Arrangements, and our Respectful Workplace commitment help create an environment where everyone can succeed. And in 2025, we’re launching Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committees to ensure these conversations turn into lasting change.

Recognising Our 2025 Gender Equality Champions

A diverse and inclusive workplace starts with the people who champion it every day. This year, we invited our team to recognise those making a difference in gender equality at Bindaree. We recognised winners from each site for their contribution in commitment, impact and leadership in promoting gender equality everyday at Bindaree.

Driving Change Year-Round

Our commitment to #AccelerateAction doesn’t stop on International Women’s Day. We’re proud to support initiatives like Meat Business Women and will be the lunch sponsor for the upcoming 2025 Meat Business Women conference. These partnerships help drive real change and highlight the vital role women play in shaping our industry.

At Bindaree, we know there’s always more to do. But as we reflect on this year’s International Women’s Day, one thing is clear – we’re committed to building a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, not just today, but every day.

Pictured below: Stacey McKenna, Salliann Powell, Zac McInerney.

At Bindaree Food Group, we understand the vital role mental health plays in building stronger, more resilient communities. That’s why we’re excited to announce that we’re now an official Business Supporter of Beyond Blue. This commitment reflects our firm dedication to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and nurturing open conversations about mental wellbeing.

Mental health is one of Australia’s most pressing challenges, particularly in rural communities where challenges are often amplified. These areas, home to many of our team members, producers, and partners, face unique pressures that can impact the emotional and mental wellbeing of individuals.

Taking Action Together
This commitment extends beyond our workplace to the heart of our industry: rural communities, producers, and farmers – the backbone of our industry – who face some of the toughest mental health challenges. By supporting Beyond Blue, we’re also standing alongside the friends and families of Bindaree, driving conversations that matter and encouraging connection.

Through our Bindaree $10,000 Fundraising Goal, awareness campaigns, and local events, we’re taking action together to help ensure Beyond Blue’s services are available to Australians in need. We look forward to sharing updates as we work toward making a difference across our industry and beyond.

About Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue’s mission aligns closely with Bindaree Food Group’s core values: promoting mental wellbeing, offering resources, and driving positive change.

Here are some of the key services Beyond Blue offers:

24/7 Support: The Beyond Blue Support Service is available for brief, confidential counselling. You can call 1300 22 4636 or chat to a counsellor online.
Peer Support Community: Connect with others through Beyond Blue’s Forums, where you can share experiences and learn from people who understand your challenges.
NewAccess Coaching: This free, guided 6-session program helps you manage everyday life stress, available via telehealth for small business owners nationwide, and in parts of New South Wales and Queensland for individuals.
Mental Health Tools: Explore tools to better understand your mental health and discover tailored support options.

Looking Ahead Together
Together, we can help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their best possible mental health. We encourage everyone to reach out to Beyond Blue for support, whether it’s for a serious discussion or just a friendly chat.

For more information or to get in touch directly with Beyond Blue, visit beyondblue.org.au or call 1300 22 4636.

Join us in supporting Beyond Blue, every contribution makes a difference. To donate Click Here – Thank you!

Our processing facility in Inverell, New South Wales, recently had the honour of hosting the Hon. Agni Deo Singh, Fijian Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations. He was accompanied by four colleagues from the Fijian Government:

Mr. Mataiasi Daulako – Acting Manager (Member Education & Advocacy), Fiji National Provident Fund
Ms. Elina Adi – Senior Media Liaison Officer, Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations
Ms. Vandhana Singh – Labour Mobility Officer, Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Workplace Relations
Mr. Diwan Shankar – Country Liaison Officer

They were also joined by representatives from Australia’s Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, making this visit a significant moment of international collaboration.

The visit was a powerful reminder of the positive impact that Bindaree’s partnership with the Pacific Labour Scheme (PALM Scheme) has had on our team and wider community. Heartwarming stories were shared, showcasing the incredible opportunities and personal growth experienced by our Fijian team members.

One standout story came from Salma Bibi, the first female Pacific Labour Scheme slicer at Bindaree to be sponsored on a skilled visa. Salma arrived in Australia with no prior experience but gained certified qualifications and skills through the support of Bindaree and FIP Group. Her journey is a testament to resilience and determination, providing significant personal milestones, including renovating her home in Fiji and supporting her daughter through university.

This inspiring visit reinforced the strength of international collaboration and the impact of the PALM Scheme on our team.

As shared by our Chief People Officer, Todd Newton, “The PALM Scheme has been wonderful for our business. Without the support of FIP Group and the PALM workers, our operational landscape would have looked vastly different.”

Bindaree Food Group continues to value its strategic partnership with FIP Group, ensuring seamless integration of the PALM Scheme across multiple sites. This collaboration is not only driving operational success but also creating life-changing opportunities for individuals like Salma Bibi, reinforcing our commitment to fostering growth and resilience within our workforce.

To learn more about the recent ministerial visit, read the article published by the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation: Fijian workers in Australia praise employer support. You can also explore our previous blogs highlighting the positive impact of the PALM Scheme.

Bindaree Food Group is excited to announce our sponsorship of Salliann Powell, a Brisbane mum and extraordinary athlete determined to become the first Australian to complete what is known in the ultramarathon world as the Racing The Planet Grand Slam Plus. This series, considered the most prestigious foot race globally, consists of five 250-kilometre ultramarathons across the world’s toughest desert terrains.

For those unfamiliar with this incredible challenge, Sal has already completed two of the five races. Her journey began in Namibia, where she trekked through the Namib Desert and Namib-Naukluft National Park, and continued across Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. Next, she will tackle three more gruelling environments to achieve her goal: another 750 kilometres, all on foot. In September, Sal will head to Jordan, and later in the year, she will venture to Antarctica and Chile.

Sal isn’t just seeking personal achievement; she’s racing to raise money and awareness for the Nerve Connection Foundation, an organisation devoted to finding a cure for devastating neuromuscular diseases. Her mission is a powerful blend of passion, purpose, and a commitment to help those in need.

When Bindaree heard about Sal’s remarkable journey, we knew we had to get involved. Our support includes financial sponsorship for all five races and a supply of our big, bold BINDAREE beef branded products. Each fortnight, we’ll be providing Sal with a special carton mix, featuring a variety of items from eye fillet, brisket, porterhouse, and scotch fillet to stir fry, helping her keep her protein intake high between these incredible journeys. While Bindaree does not currently produce jerky, Sal, a self-confessed jerky fan with her own dehydrator, is keen to get creative with our beef products at home!

Recently, some of our Bindaree team members spoke with Sal. She shared the reality — the discipline, training, and mental toughness required to complete such a challenge, all while advocating for those living with multiple neuromuscular diseases. Her humility and determination is an inspiration, and we’re honoured to support her mission to overcome these barriers and make life a bit easier for others.

Join us in cheering Sal on as she continues her quest to make history and make Australia proud! We also invite you to support the cause that drives her — raising vital funds for the Nerve Connection Foundation. To learn more and donate, please click here.

Stay tuned for updates as we support her every step of the way.

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!

Visit Our Story to learn more.

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)