Following the Great East Japan Earthquake on 11 March, the subsequent Fukushima nuclear crisis and evacuation directive, local famers have been left with no alternative than to flee immediately and abandon their farms and livestock.

The Australian beef industry has had a long-term trading relationship with Japan and wanted to support fellow producers as they begin the enormous task of rebuilding their businesses and their communities.

MLA has met with many beef producers in the affected regions to determine how the Australian beef industry might best offer its support. As the first step under this program of support, three representatives of the Japanese beef industry have been invited to Sydney for the launch of our support initiative.

Three producers from the Fukushima and Iwate prefectures will spend time with members of the Australian beef industry to share their experiences in managing the challenges of dealing with devastation and change.

A BBQ brunch will be held to launch the Australian beef industry's 'Together with Japan' project on Saturday 14 May, from 10am to early afternoon, at Dawes Point Park (near the Park Hyatt Hotel, Hickson Road, The Rocks) on Sydney Harbour.

Funds raised from the event, and the ongoing initiative, will go toward specific reconstruction projects in the communities of the Japanese beef industry as well as scholarship support to students in affected areas.

The 'Together with Japan' initiative is supported by Meat & Livestock Australia, Cattle Council of Australia, Australian Lot Feeders Association, Australian Meat Industry Council and Australia's beef producers and processors.