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For Tony Dean, Casino Beef Week isn’t just an event — it’s a passion, a celebration, and a way to give back to the community he proudly calls home.
As treasurer of the Casino Beef Week Committee, Tony plays a vital role in bringing to life one of regional Australia’s most iconic festivals. But don’t expect him to talk much about titles or recognition.
“I don’t really think of myself as the treasurer,” he says humbly. “I just see myself as part of a great team of locals working together to make Beef Week something special — for the beef industry and for our community.”
Over the years, Tony has seen Beef Week grow — not just in size, but in meaning.
“It started for me with a love of cattle and wanting to promote the industry,” he explains.
“But once I joined the committee, I quickly realised it’s about much more than cattle. It’s about people. It’s about bringing families, friends and the whole region together to celebrate who we are and what we do.”
Held over 10 action packed days, Casino Beef Week showcases everything from cattle competitions and street parades to food, fashion and family fun. And behind every event is a huge amount of work — something Tony knows all too well.
The power of volunteers
“One of the biggest challenges is simply having enough hands on deck,” he says.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of Beef Week. Without them, we couldn’t run a single event.”
Tony is quick to acknowledge the dedication of community members who turn up year after year to help, whether it’s setting up for the parade or flipping snags at the barbecue.
“Every bit of help makes a difference,” he says. “And thanks to the support of local businesses, sponsors, and grants, we’re able to keep delivering a festival that puts Casino on the map.”
Economic boost and regional pride
Beyond the community spirit, Casino Beef Week also delivers a serious boost to the local economy.
“For 10 days, all eyes are on Casino,” Tony says.
“People travel from far and wide to take part, and that creates flow-on benefits for shops, cafes, motels — you name it.”
Tony believes the event plays a key role in showcasing the strength of the beef industry and also the energy and pride of the Richmond Valley.
For Tony, one of the biggest highlights each year is seeing young people get involved.
“It’s fantastic to see school students taking part, learning about cattle, and developing a passion for agriculture,” he says.
“They’re the future of the industry, and Beef Week gives them a real platform to shine.”
A life in livestock
When he’s not immersed in Beef Week planning, Tony works for Outcross Agri Services as both site manager of the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange in Casino and National HR manager.
After 15 years in the meat processing sector, his current roles keep him connected to the heartbeat of regional Australia — its people, its livestock, and its industries.
He brings that same commitment to safety and progress to both his job and his volunteer work.
“Whether it’s at the yards or at Beef Week, it’s all about people — supporting them, keeping them safe, and helping them succeed,” he says.
Though he’s not planning to slow down any time soon, Tony feels secure about the future and what retirement might bring.
As a member of Australian Food Super, he values the long-term security it provides.
“As we get older, we all start thinking more about the future,” he says.
“For me, I hope to eventually spend more time on my farm and know I’ve given my family the best start in life.”
But for now, Tony’s focus is firmly on Casino and ensuring this year’s Beef Week continues to grow and thrive.
“It’s more than just an event,” he says. “It’s a celebration of everything we are as a community. And I feel lucky to be part of it.”
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