Written by Jessica Lavis
Attending the 2025 National Intercollegiate Meat Judging (ICMJ) Conference in Wagga Wagga has genuinely been one of the biggest highlights of my time at Charles Sturt University.
As an ag science student who grew up on a beef cattle property near Braidwood, I already had a strong interest in livestock, but ICMJ took that interest and turned it into something bigger. It’s hard to sum up just how valuable this experience was. Yes, the learning was great (who knew you could get that excited about marbling in meat?) but what stood out the most was the people, the passion, and the opportunities.
Spending a week surrounded by students from across Australia and even from the U.S. and Japan, was honestly so motivating. We weren’t just learning how to judge meat; we were sharing stories, asking big questions, and getting a front-row seat to what the future of the red meat industry looks like.
The industry support behind this event is incredible. From producers to processors, from exporters to researchers, we heard from some of the most respected voices in the sector. Their insights challenged how I think about supply chains, sustainability, and innovation and gave me a real sense of what’s possible after uni. The careers expo was a huge highlight too, offering genuine conversations with people who are actively shaping the industry (with free merch as a bonus!).
And honestly… the food was next level. You could definitely tell we were at a meat conference, every meal was top tier and a real treat after long, full days. I don’t think I’ve eaten that well in a long time, I felt like I was in a feedlot.
More than anything, ICMJ gave me confidence. Confidence in my skills, in my knowledge, and in my passion for agriculture. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me build connections and reminded me why I love this industry and the people in it.
I will be forever grateful for the opportunity ICMJ has provided me and if you’re even slightly interested in livestock, meat science, or a future in agriculture, ICMJ is 100% worth it. It’s more than just a competition. It’s an experience that will grow your network, expand your perspective, and help you find your place in ag. It’s a week that could shape your whole career.
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