Since Elders first acquired full ownership in 2011, Killara Feedlot has grown into one of Australia’s leading integrated beef production operations, shaped by long-term investment and a commitment to continuous improvement.
As Elders enters into an agreement to divest Killara to Australian Meat Group (AMG), it marks both the end of a significant chapter and an opportunity to reflect on the journey that has shaped the business over the past fifteen years.
“Killara has always been about the people. What we’ve achieved over the years was built through their commitment, pride in the operation, and the support we have received from across the Elders business,” Killara Feedlot’s Divisional CEO Andrew Talbot said.
“The support of Mark Allison and the Elders team has been critical. Mark’s passion for Killara and his backing of our bold ambitions gave the team confidence, and what we have achieved together is something we’re all incredibly proud of.”
Located in the Liverpool Plains region of northern New South Wales, Killara turns over approximately 62,000 head of cattle annually, operating a sophisticated grain-fed and grass-fed production system.
Over the years, Killara has focused on strengthening its operational foundations through sector-leading innovation and sustainability initiatives. Advanced milling facilities and steam flaking technology improved feed consistency and grain digestibility. Backgrounding and cropping programs strengthened supply reliability and supported year-round production. Irrigation systems, silage production and nutrient recycling became increasingly connected to the broader operation, creating a more resilient and self-sufficient production model.
Every part of the business has been designed to deliver enhanced quality, traceability and customer confidence across the supply chain, and that same long-term thinking also has shaped the Killara team’s approach to sustainability and animal welfare.
Effluent reuse, manure composting, water recycling, dust suppression and renewable energy initiatives have become embedded into day-to-day operations. The business also led important work in animal health and antimicrobial stewardship, including world-first trials for the early detection of Bovine Respiratory Disease and the development of autogenous vaccines designed to reduce antibiotic reliance.
Andrew said the team’s sustainability journey over the last five to eight years is something he is incredibly proud of.
“We have a solar farm generating 60 per cent of our power requirements, new feeding sheds delivering cleaner and fully-shaded pens for cattle, delivering strong performance gains, and a transition to centre pivot effluent watering systems across the farmland at Killara,” he said.
“We are set to see further gains in coming years with a transition to electric-powered rolling plant, plant-based supplements to further reduce methane, covered feeding sheds to significantly reduce odour and dust, a transition to natural gas as part of the site’s energy mix, and less reliance on diesel as renewable energy use continues to increase.”
Despite extensive growth in operations and sustainability, Killara's defining feature has always been its people and community.
Through local sponsorships, industry events and initiatives, the business has continued to support regional communities and organisations throughout northern New South Wales. One of the most significant examples has been the Killara Charity Campdraft which has become an annual fixture for the Quirindi community, raising funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and other local organisations.
Killara plays an important role across the surrounding beef and grain sector, supporting producers, transport operators, contractors, suppliers and regional businesses that rely on its scale and long-term presence. Its influence extends across the Liverpool Plains, contributing to the strength and resilience of the wider regional economy.
Now, as the business transitions to AMG, Killara is entering its next phase in a strong position. With AMG’s established presence in the red meat sector and long-standing relationship with the business, Killara is well-positioned to continue growing into the future as a premium, integrated beef operation.
For Elders, Killara leaves behind a significant legacy. It has been a cornerstone of the portfolio and a clear example of what can be achieved through innovation and a commitment to the future of the sector.
“With the Australian feedlot sector experiencing strong growth over the past two years, Killara is well positioned to expand,” Andrew said.
“Elders’ legacy investment in a state-of-the-art steam‑flaked mill is now complete and capable of supporting an additional 50 per cent increase in cattle on feed. This technology leads the industry, delivering nutritionally balanced, starch‑controlled rations to support consistent daily growth.
“Looking ahead, Killara’s future growth will be underpinned by strong environmental management, including continuing to reduce odour impacts on the local community while expanding operations to meet customer demand.
“More feeding sheds, more high‑quality cattle on feed and more local employment opportunities are good for the town and good for the wider rural industry across NSW.
“Joining the AMG Group positions Killara for strong growth and an exciting new chapter.”
