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Growing up on a cattle backgrounding operation in New South Wales, James Guest never had any doubt his future lay in the agricultural world - he just had to find out where.
After completing studies at the University of New England, the young man headed north and took on a role as trainee manager at Stanbroke Feedlot. The experience opened up all facets of the feedlot industry to James, who quickly realised he’d found his path.
After three years as a trainee manager, James spent four years as the livestock manager for Stanbroke Feedlot. Fast forward to today and the 30-year-old lives with his family in Goondiwindi, QLD and says he’s fortunate to have found his dream career as Sapphire Feedlot Manager for Smithfield Cattle Company.
“A proud moment in my career was being offered the role as manager for Sapphire Feedlot and being given the opportunity to work in such a progressive and reputable business,” he says.
“I am really enjoying working through the challenges presented to me, and seeing myself develop professionally.”
James has been fortunate to have enjoyed the mentorship of many throughout his career but credits Matt George of Bovine Dynamics for playing an instrumental role. After meeting in 2013, Matt’s passion and industry knowledge has provided James with a strong base and the professional relationship continues to guide James today.
James’ essay entry explores the optimal timing of hoof trimming in long-fed Wagyu cattle to maintain structural integrity and improve animal outcomes. With Wagyu cattle occupying feedlots in higher numbers and for longer periods, issues with the animal’s hooves can arise that can affect welfare and performance.
At present we have access to very little data on hoof trimming in beef cattle. Currently, across the two Smithfield Cattle Co feedlots we are conducting a trial to determine when the best time to perform these hoof trimming procedures is,” James explains.
“Hopefully this data can be widely disseminated throughout the lot feeding industry, so that hoof trimming in long fed animals becomes more commonplace, ideally resulting in less pharmaceutical intervention.”
James took out the prestigious Young Lot Feeder of the Year award ahead of other finalists Kailen Hodgson, Lucy morris and Simon Kensit.
James receives $5,000 towards a professional development course or study trip and a scholarship to attend the Australain Rural Leadership Foundation’s emerging leaders’ program, valued at $10,450.
