Record Lambassador delegation to put Australian lamb on the global menu
Twenty-three influential chefs, restaurateurs, butchers and food professionals from around the world will visit Australian sheep farms this October, taking the story of Australian lamb back to international kitchens, restaurants and consumers.
The largest delegation in the history of Meat & Livestock Australia's (MLA) Lambassador program will travel through Western Australia and Victoria, meeting producers and experiencing firsthand the farming practices, innovation and expertise behind Australia's premium lamb.
The initiative is designed to turn influential international culinary professionals into long-term advocates for Australian lamb, helping drive demand and strengthen the product's reputation in key export markets.
Building on the success of the 2025 program, which welcomed 21 culinary professionals from 13 countries, this year's record delegation will gain insights into Australia's lamb supply chain, from on-farm production through to processing, retail and foodservice.
MLA General Manager – International Markets Andrew Cox said the program was an important investment in building international demand for Australian lamb and connecting producers with the people influencing food choices around the world.
“Australian sheep producers have a fantastic story to tell, and the Lambassador program puts that story directly in front of influential chefs, butchers and food leaders who can champion our product in international markets,” Mr Cox said.
“These are the people influencing what's served in restaurants, recommended to consumers and showcased across global food markets.
“By bringing them to Australia, we're giving them a firsthand understanding of the quality of our lamb and the people, passion and expertise behind it.
“For our producers, this is about building stronger recognition, preference and ultimately demand for Australian lamb in some of our most important international markets.”
The delegation will begin its journey in Western Australia's key sheep-producing regions before travelling to Victoria, with a program featuring farm visits, producer engagements, processing and butchery demonstrations, culinary challenges and dining experiences.
A highlight will be the WAMMCO Annual General Meeting in Katanning on 15 October 2026, where the visiting Lambassadors will put their culinary skills to the test in a cooking challenge, with dishes judged by WAMMCO members.
Mr Cox said connecting international culinary talent directly with Australian producers was central to the program's success.
“There's no substitute for seeing Australian lamb production firsthand and hearing directly from the men and women who produce it,” Mr Cox said.
“When Lambassadors return home, they take those experiences into their restaurants, businesses and professional networks, helping introduce Australian lamb to new audiences and reinforce why it is a premium product.
“Over the past decade, we've built a growing global network of advocates who are helping keep Australian lamb front of mind with chefs and consumers around the world.”
Following the tour, Lambassadors will continue promoting Australian lamb through their menus, culinary education, media activities and consumer engagement initiatives.
Meet the 2026 Lambassadors
