The Rare Breeds Trust of Australia (RBTA) has unveiled Tammie Conroy from Coolamunda as the new coordinator for the upcoming Rare Breeds Trust Future Farms Fund Charity Auction.
Tammie Conroy’s background reflects a deep-seated connection to rural life and a profound passion for livestock.
Hailing from a sheep property in Karara, Tammie later pursued her education at the University of Queensland, obtaining dual degrees, one of which was a Bachelor of Applied Science with a specialization in Equine Science.
Currently living in Coolamunda with her partner Rick and their baby Hayley, Tammie is deeply involved in livestock management and breeding. Her family operates a livestock production and transport business, underscoring her immersion in agricultural endeavours.
Beyond her academic and familial ties to rural life, Tammie’s accolades include her representation of Queensland at the Australian Utility Championships. She has also been recognised for her equestrian prowess, having held titles such as Warwick Rodeo Queen and Miss Rodeo Australia Horsemanship.
The decision to host a charity auction stems from the urgent need to safeguard Australia’s agricultural sector in the face of potential biosecurity threats. Despite discussions within the Australian Government regarding the establishment of a semen bank, progress has been limited. In response, the RBTA has taken proactive steps to create its own semen bank, utilizing storage facilities across the country to ensure resilience in the event of a crisis.
The semen bank, known as the Future Farms Fund, primarily relies on donations and proceeds from charity auctions like the upcoming event coordinated by Tammie Conroy. The funds generated are exclusively allocated to the maintenance and expansion of the semen bank, a crucial resource for preserving rare breeds and genetic diversity within Australia’s livestock population.
The RBTA operates through the dedication of volunteers and receives no government funding. Its sustainability relies on the generosity of donors and the support of local businesses. Over the years, businesses both locally and interstate have rallied behind the cause, contributing to the success of previous auctions.
Farmers and businesses interested in contributing to the cause are encouraged to donate semen or goods for auction. Contributions of any scale are welcomed, reflecting the collective effort required to uphold Australia’s rich agricultural heritage.
For those interested in supporting the Rare Breeds Trust of Australia or contributing to the charity auction, inquiries can be directed to Tammie Conroy at rbta.auction@gmail.com or by phone at 0415 475 239. Likewise, farmers looking to donate semen are encouraged to reach out to Judy at rarebreedstrustau@gmail.com or by phone at 0422 938 865.
As preparations for the auction gain momentum, the Rare Breeds Trust of Australia anticipates another successful event, uniting communities in their commitment to preserving Australia’s unique livestock breeds and agricultural legacy.
The event is scheduled to take place on AuctionsPlus during International Heritage Breeds Week, running from 15 May to 21 May, 2024.
