The British Cattle Breeders Club (BCBC) are pleased to announce that its next conference will be held virtually on Tuesday 25th January 2022.
The theme for the conference will be ‘A Breath of Fresh Air’ reflecting the Club’s aspiration to focus on positivity, resilience and opportunity.
BCBC Chair Dr Karen Wonnacott
BCBC Chair Dr. Karen Wonnacott explains: “After what has been a challenging time for everyone, we have pulled together a positive and forward-thinking programme with a strong focus on breeding and genetics.
“I believe that it is a great time for our brilliant industry and if we can pull together, demonstrate our resilience and embrace new research and technology, we will place ourselves in a very strong position for the future.”
More than 800 people registered for the BCBC’s first virtual conference including more UK agricultural students than ever before. This format facilitates speakers and delegates from around the globe.
“With ongoing uncertainty around in-person events we have decided to build on that success in 2022, but fully intend to return to an in-person event in 2023,” says Dr Wonnacott.
As in previous years, the event will include beef and dairy specific presentations with keynote speakers who will address issues that are pertinent to both sectors including Professor Jude Capper, award-winning livestock sustainability consultant and Harper Adams University’s ABP chair in sustainable beef production.
Agriculture’s role in combating climate change will be the focus for Professor Myles Allen of the University of Oxford, while Steve McLean of M&S will bring the retailer’s perspective and expectations. Nigel Owens MBE, Welsh Hereford farmer and former International Rugby Union referee will speak on resilience and mental health within the industry.
Other confirmed speakers include Seth Wareing of the Stabiliser Cattle Company, Marco Winters of AHDB Dairy , Dr Jonathan Statham, cattle health specialist at Bishopton Vets, and Desi Cicale of Meat Imaging USA who has recently introduced carcase camera grading technology to UK Wagyu production.
Full details of the conference, speakers and how to book a place will be available in the autumn on www.cattlebreeders.org.uk.