Michael Mulligan, president of the Kangaroo Industry Association of Australia, spoke of a progressive year for the industry in his annual report. The last twelve months had seen a shift of focus from issues relating to skins to events relating to the US market, to a focus on meat for human consumption and to a lesser degree for pet food.
The year saw re-confirmation of the Russian market, the market in Korea was finally opened and challenges against some state management programmes were well defended in the courts.
Other achievements included the finalising of a chef training package for preparation of kangaroo cuisine, the Pet Food Standard has been passed through to the ministers to sign off, and advances in the review of the Code of Practice for The Humane Shooting of Kangaroos.
Supply of raw materials; carcases, skins, meat; was not easy for anyone in 2004 and whilst there had been a significant turnaround in Queensland, less so in New South Wales, South Australia and in the West, reduced quota numbers overall for 2005 will mean careful management by all for the next 12 to 24 month period.
Executive Officer John Kelly was praised for his commitment to the kangaroo industry and its image throughout the year.
