Where are they now?

Cheyne Twist, Communications Officer

Featured in this edition of “Where are they Now” is Ellen Simpson.

Ellen Simpson at the University of Ilinois in 2016

Ellen Simpson

What is your earliest memory participating in Angus Youth activities? I attended Angus Youth Roundups in Bendigo, Canberra and Glen Innes, from memory. It feels like a hundred years ago!

What activity/event stands out to you the most and in terms of opportunities that you received for being part of Angus Youth, how did your involvement positively influence your development in the beef cattle industry? The National Judging Competition is a standout for me, as it afforded me the opportunity to travel to the US for the University of Illinois Scholarship. I spent six glorious months in the states, both studying and travelling. I was part of the University of Illinois livestock and meat judging teams and travelled to competitions most weekends. The learning opportunities, connections and exposure I received was second to none.

In terms of opportunities that you received for being part of Angus Youth, how did your involvement positively influence your development in the beef cattle industry? Absolutely Angus Youth has had an enormous role in my career. Michigan State University (MSU) has been a huge part of my life. It was here I was introduced to Dr Harlan Ritchie who had a very strong influence on my direction. I worked with Harlan on projects both here and in the USA post my time at MSU. Harlan has been one of my biggest influencers.

What were the key learnings you developed through these experiences? I gained an enormous appreciation for and perspective of the Australian Beef Industry on a global scale. We have a great reputation as beef producers, and I was so proud to represent us. The way the US grades beef is different to here, but the intensity in which we trained for competitions (20+hours/ week in chillers, 10+ hours a week on farm physically appraising animals) was inspiring. A significant learning which I must mention is the value of connections – I am still good friends with girls I lived with and members of the judging teams I was part of, as well as lecturers and coaches from uni. I don’t think we can ever place enough emphasis on the value of relationships. The Australian Beef Industry is so small, and Angus Youth does such a wonderful job at encouraging and fostering relationships from a young age.

How are you involved in the beef cattle industry now/ where are you now? I have worked for Australia’s largest saleyard, AuctionsPlus for the last 4.5 years. I am the Customer Experience & Integrity Manager where I work with the team to roll out new developments to customers, user onboarding and best practice, Assessor training and dispute resolution. It’s exciting to be able to combine my love of the beef cattle industry (and agriculture as a whole) with a fast-paced environment, travel, diversity which comes with a national platform, technology and a wonderful team.

Why would you encourage others to become involved in the Angus Youth Program through the scholarships and bursaries program opportunities? We are so lucky to have opportunities presented to us, from financial bursaries, through to scholarships which allow you to travel the world, meet wonderful people and experience the best industry in the world, somewhere new. Why wouldn’t I encourage others to become involved? I don’t have a single reason. It can open doors which would have otherwise never have been opened. Opportunity awaits.