Romy Carey has been announced as the new chief executive officer of the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association, replacing Will Evans.

Ms Carey is a lifelong resident of the NT and served as the NTCA CEO for two years, but she has worked for the association for more than six years.

“We require professionals across all sectors – from doctors and nurses to tradespeople and agricultural experts. It’s crucial to highlight the wide array of opportunities available within the NT pastoral industry to residents and potential newcomers alike,” Ms Carey told Beef Central.

“People grow the regions, and from this, the regions become stronger.

“Significant investment exceeding a billion dollars in property purchases, development, and diversification across the estate has propelled the sector forward. We remain committed to evolving, enhancing productivity, and ensuring long-term sustainability.”

Ms Carey has represented the NT pastoral sector on federal and Territory committees and represented the livestock industry in the Northern Australian Coordination Network for Biosecurity.

NTCA president Henry Burke said Ms Carey brought significant experience to the position, and NTCA members would warmly embrace her appointment.

Mr Evans joined the NTCA in 2021, after the shock resignation of Ashley Manicaros late in 2020, with the latter’s departure from the organisation having remained a mystery, with both sides refraining from offering an explanation.

Mr Manicaros had issued a media statement, stating that he left the group “after a discussion with the [NTCA] president [Chris Nott]”.

It’s understood the departure came as a surprise to Mr Manicaros, having appeared on ABC Radio’s Country Hour just hours before the announcement was made.