The Western Australian Farmers Federation (Inc.) (WAFarmers) Meat Section has re-elected Beverley farmer, Jeff Murray, as its President for 2012 during the Meat Section Conference, sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), at the Burswood Entertainment Complex.

Mr Murray has been Meat Section President since 2008 and said he was looking forward to continuing

"The last 12 months have been a testing time for the meat industry with the Live Export ban and implementation of recommendations from the Farmer Review," Mr Murray said.

"WAFarmers is committed to the welfare of animals, in both domestic and international markets, and will continue to work with industry to implement the Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS), along with encouraging high standards of animal welfare within Western Australia.

"The next 12 months will continue to be challenging for the industry with concerns over sheep numbers, the viability of domestic abattoirs and the live export markets for sheep and cattle."

Mr Murray paid tribute to his fellow Meat Section councillors and his wife, Wendy, for their support in enabling him to perform his role.

John Wallace of Esperance was also returned as Senior Vice President while Mount Barker sheep and cattle farmer, David Slade, was elected Vice President.