NT Cattlemen’s chief executive Ashley Manicaros makes shock exit

THE former CEO of the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association has spoken after the shock announcement of his sudden departure yesterday afternoon

President of the NT Cattlemen’s Association Chris Nott thanked Ashley Manicaros for his time with the organisation. Picture: Andrea Johnston

THE Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association has announced the shock departure of its chief executive officer Ashley Manicaros.

Mr Manicaros, was appointed CEO in September 2018.

Mystery surrounds Mr Manicaros’ sudden departure with the former CEO engaging with the media only a matter of hours before the NTCA President Chris Nott issued a media release announcing his exit and the appointment of Romy Carey as acting CEO.

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Mr Manicaros said he was proud of his time at the NTCA.

“I can confirm that as of today (Thursday) I am no longer employed with the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association following a discussion with the president,” he said.

“I regard the discussions as private and confidential at this time.

“Right now I’m reflecting on all my options and opportunities.

“I will continue to contribute to the Northern Territory in whatever capacity.

“I had a strong track record of success at the NTCA and look proudly on my achievements over the last 27 months.

“I will always hold the NTCA membership in the highest regard and followed the mission statement to advance and protect the cattle industry religiously.”

Mr Manicaros was appointed in 2018. Picture: Keri Megelus

Mr Nott simply thanked Ashley Manicaros for his time with the organisation and then went on to say members and the executive team were looking forward to working with Mrs Carey.

Mr Manicaros was known for always thinking outside the square and looking for new ways to promote and safeguard his industry.

He worked tirelessly in the past year to get a senior Minister to take on the agriculture portfolio and he got his wish when Deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison became the new Minister for Agribusiness.

Mr Nott said Mrs Carey has the support and trust of the NTCA Board and welcomed her into the new role.

The Darwin-born mother-of-three has worked for the NTCA as executive officer since May 2019.

“She brings with her a wealth of industry experience,” Mr Nott said.

“Mrs Carey, a finalist in the 2020 NT Young Achiever’s Agriculture Awards, has had a passion for agriculture and has worked closely with the NT cattle industry in previous roles, before joining the NTCA.

“Life on the land here in the NT isn’t made any easier when we don’t get enough rain in the southern parts, stumble over red tape, have to cart cattle on hundreds of kilometres of a detour due to poor road conditions, or worry about our children and grandchildren at boarding school when sudden border closures hit.

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“But we will continue to fight the good fight and tackle those challenges in 2021 with a new CEO at the helm of our organisation.”

Mrs Carey said she was humbled to be appointed acting CEO for an industry she loves and respects.

“It is our mission at the NTCA to advance, protect and support our Territory pastoralists, and I am proud of our team in Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs that works determinedly for the industry,” she said.

Mr Manicaros has been contacted for comment.

Originally published as NT Cattlemen’s chief executive Ashley Manicaros makes shock exit