GOOD rainfall across the Northern Rivers has created an optimistic outlook in the lead up to Casino Beef Week 2015.
The event combines ten days of community and family fun with the aim of showcasing the value of the beef and veal industry to the Northern Rivers region.
Producers are starting early in selecting and preparing led steers for the prestigious hook and hoof competition, which boasts a unique flavour of having steer judging happen in the main street.
The Land has had a long association with the competition, which now draws from as far afield as Tamworth, the Hunter Valley and into Queensland and offers substantial prize money.
The festival also runs a high-quality stud competition which tends to showcase a huge variety of breeds, given the diverse nature of the beef industry in the region.
Meanwhile, the big producer-owned red meat processor, The Northern Cooperative Meat Company (NCMC), has come on board as naming sponsor for 2015 and 2016.
The NCMC has been a contributor to the Casino Beef Week festival since its inception and chairman John Seccombe said the iconic community festival had significant importance to the region and the co-operative’s stakeholders, including employees.
The festival this year will run from May 23 until June 2, featuring in excess of 65 events.
Beef Week president Stuart George said it would have a focus on low-cost family entertainment and experiences for all sections of the community, with the aim of bringing people together to celebrate the Richmond Valley lifestyle, community spirit and heart.
“The generous contributions of festival sponsors are essential to the continued viability of our much-loved event,” he said.
“The co-operative is recognised by the people of the Northern Rivers as a huge contributor to our community and we are grateful and very proud to confirm our association with them in this year’s festival.”