Romy Carey succeeds Will Evans as chief executive of the Northern Territory Cattleman’s Association

A peak Territory's ag body has made a ‘clear choice’ in picking the association’s new top dog as the old chief executive stands aside after four years. Find out more.

Romy Carey is the new Northern Territory Cattleman's Association (NTCA) chief executive, succeeding Will Evans, who spent four years at the helm. Picture: Supplied

The Northern Territory’s peak association for the cattle industry has a new top dog, who the president says is the “clear choice” to take the reins.

Romy Carey has succeeded Will Evans and is the new chief executive of the Northern Territory Cattleman’s Association (NTCA).

Her appointment was announced on Monday, with Mr Evans’ time in the top job coming to an end.

Will Evans

Mrs Carey said she remained “committed to evolving, enhancing productivity, and ensuring long-term sustainability” of the Territory’s cattle industry – which comprises more than two million head of cattle, which are spread across 700,000 sqkm in the NT.

“We need skilled workers across all sectors – healthcare, trades, logistics, and agricultural expertise. This industry offers diverse career paths and the chance to be part of something bigger – feeding the nation, growing our regions and strengthening our communities,” she said.

“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.

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

Cattle for sale at the Alice Springs Bohning Yards. Picture: Gera Kazakov

Mrs Carey previously spent time representing the NT on federal and Territory committees, and was in a leadership role in the Northern Australian Coordination Network for Biosecurity.

She also spent time as the deputy chief executive of the NTCA.

NTCA president Henry Burke said Mrs Carey had been an “integral part of our organisation for over six years” and her appointment was welcomed by members.

“Her steadfast advocacy for our membership and deep understanding of industry challenges made her the clear choice,” he said.

The Territory’s cattle industry is the third largest GDP earner, bringing $1.2 billion into the NT economy a year. 

In late February, it was announced Mr Evans would be moving on after four years at the helm.

He joined the NTCA in late 2021, and helped navigate the industry through Covid, botulism outbreaks, and bushfires.