He will be responsible for ensuring all 10 agencies operating out of Tamworth Regional Livestock Exchange work together effectively.

The joint principal of Purtle Plevey Agencies, he has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry.

Mr Purtle won the title of best young auctioneer in Australia early in his career, in 1996.

At the end of the day, that translates into getting the best price possible for producers. He’ll also be the face of the association and will be front and centre to ensure that people get the latest information about the state of the industry and the best market intelligence.

Collarenabri-born and -bred Mr Purtle said he was a firm supporter of the multi-million-dollar Tamworth selling facility and was confident it would continue to go from strength to strength, riding on the wave of confidence that has swept the beef industry for the last 12 months or more.

“Over 100 operators are represented at Tamworth every week and that’s why TRLX will always be a strong centre,” Mr Purtle said.

“Our clients range from large-scale producers to smaller operators, and this diversity of clients underwrites every agent’s business.

“The number of people in play, both buying and selling each week, is our strength and will be for years to come.”

The first half of 2017 will be particularly busy with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) Tag A Calf sale and Virbac Weaner Challenge penciled in for March and April, as well as weekly cattle and sheep sales and fortnightly store cattle sales.

“These are exciting times for producers and agents and I’m looking forward to a successful year for all,” Mr Purtle said.