Taylor made for red meat processing
Taylor Meads was born and bred for red meat processing. After watching her father work at the local red meat processor and marvelling at his success, Taylor has followed in his footsteps to realise the benefits of working in one of Australia’s biggest regional industries. Taylor’s story is celebrated by the More to Meat campaign which aims to shine a spotlight on the opportunities red meat processing presents for young people in the regions.
Eager to pursue her own accomplishments in the sector, Taylor began as a packer at JBS Dinmore, where she spent three years learning the foundations of the industry. Here, while honing her craft, Taylor formed some of her best friendships and truly learnt the value of hard work, “the plant has a great social aspect. I built some of my closest friendships through here.”
Taylor’s story demonstrates the stability and consistency offered by the red meat processing industry and celebrates the many doors employment in the sector can open. In 2018, with more experience under her belt, Taylor moved to JBS’ Yanco operations where she worked in quality assurance before moving into production control with her now partner. Although this lucrative progression enabled Taylor and her partner to purchase a gym, Taylor chose to continue her work with JBS, such was its value.
This year, Taylor and her partner made the decision to sell their gym, relocate to Wodonga in Victoria, and take up positions at Smith’s Tallangatta Meat Processor (TMP). The decision was made even easier for Taylor, as her father recently made the same move, and she was keen to follow in his footsteps once again. “I followed my family. When my Dad decides he’s getting a new job, it’s like we all decide to get a new job. Dad has worked in meat processing for over 30 years. Growing up, my sister and I were very fortunate because of it,” said Taylor.
Taylor sees a long future for herself in the industry and encourages everyone considering red meat processing to “just go for it”. She recognises the invaluable life skills the industry has given her and offers that “no day is the same. You talk to different people every day. There is always someone new to talk to and something new is happening.”
Taylor is eager to keep learning. She is currently completing her meat science qualifications, certificate 3 and 4 in quality assurance, and spec 4 for lamb. A potent endorsement, Taylor concludes “I thought multiple times about what I want to do in life. The job is definitely challenging but I like the challenge. The industry is growing, and I want to grow with it.”