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27/03/2024
Nestled firmly in one of Australia’s cattle-producing heartlands, Rabobank’s Rockhampton team could talk beef all day.
And they’ll soon get the opportunity at Beef 2024, where their region will welcome producers from across the country during Australia’s largest industry showcase.
Solid backgrounding for team success
The Rockhampton team consists of Area Manager Michael Fletcher, Senior Rural Manager Rebecca Murray and Rural Officer, Bree Spreadborough, with all three benefitting from a rural background.
Having spent his career in banking, just like his father before him, Michael believes it’s an industry ingrained within, and having spent the past 30 years in rural banking across central and south east Queensland, it’s experience that’s hard to replicate.
“I feel fortunate to have worked across a number of different industries, in different regions, and when you collate that experience for clients, it’s certainly valuable, and it gives me enormous satisfaction using my expertise to help support our clients achieve their farm businesses goals.”
Rebecca, a born-and-bred cattle woman hailing from a property in the Central Highlands, is thrilled to be working in a region, and industry, so close to her heart.
“Being able to relate to my clients on a personal level has been so valuable – it makes for a genuine, trusted relationships, which I’m really proud of.”
And despite what other regions think, she contests that Rockhampton is without a doubt the Australian beef capital.
“Our livestock producers certainly have their fair share of challenges, yet they are so resilient, and not afraid to embrace innovation and sustainability to help mitigate these risks and continue to grow their business”
A qualified accountant formerly working in the rural accounting sector, Rebecca believes there’s nothing more exciting than supporting clients to strengthen their business through adopting new initiatives and practices.
“Our local beef producers lead the way when it comes to regenerative grazing, and two of the first soil carbon projects in Australia are on client properties - it’s a dynamic space with so much opportunity for continual improvement, and we’re thrilled to be supporting them.”
Bree also grew up in agriculture, with her mother managing properties across Central Queensland.
“What I love about Rabobank is that it’s more than just banking, it’s about contributing to community and clients in a way no one else is.”
“From bringing global analysts to the region to share insights first-hand, or hosting Financial Skills Workshops to help upskill young farmers, we want to ensure our clients have direct access to knowledge, and opportunities to network and learn, to help strengthen their businesses, and ultimately their communities.”
A solid team, having worked together now for five years, Bree said clients appreciated the consistency and longevity.
On the ground at Beef Australia
With Rabobank dedicated solely to food and agricultural clients, and the Rockhampton branch predominantly beef focussed, Beef Australia represents a unique opportunity for the team.
“There is so much we can take away from Beef Australia, and just as valuable is the opportunity to network with beef producers and industry from right across Australia – and right here in our home town,” Rebecca said.
With knowledge-sharing events and initiatives throughout the week in the Rabobank Marquee, she was looking forward to embracing insights and learning opportunities and sharing these with clients.
She did have some advice for visitors though, “Don’t swim in the river! It’s full of crocs!”