Vale Bill O'Halloran - SPA Policy Council Tribute

A deeply respected leader, innovator, and tireless advocate for Australia’s sheepmeat industry.

Bill’s career was one defined by vision and commitment. As the former Sheepmeat Industry Leader for NSW DPI and Chair of the Product Integrity Committee for Sheep Producers Australia, he helped shape the future of our industry. He was instrumental in the development of the first Lamb Industry Strategic Plan and continued to guide successive plans, setting a strong foundation for growth, integrity, and innovation.

He played a pivotal role in directing research and development activities within NSW Agriculture and contributed to national projects that modernised the supply chain, including the pioneering implementation of NLIS (Sheep and Goats) in NSW between 2005 and 2009.

His contributions to carcass feedback systems, the International Sheep and Wool Handbook, Sheepmeat Marketing Methods, and the development of value-based marketing tools have left a lasting impact. From spearheading RFID traceability initiatives to contributing to national sheep genetics strategies, Bill worked across sectors to create a smarter, more productive and ultimately more transparent industry.

But more than his achievements, Bill will be remembered for his passion, for innovation, for producers, and for the future of the sheepmeat industry. He believed deeply in its potential and worked every day to help it thrive.

We will honour his legacy with gratitude, respect, and the knowledge that the systems, policies, and ideas he helped build will continue to benefit generations to come.