Gary Sewell, prominent Square Meaters stalwart and mentor, remembered

Gary Sewell, a respected South Burnett cattleman and stalwart of the Square Meaters breed, is being remembered for his deep passion for the industry and mentorship of others following his sudden passing at the age of 63.

The former principal of Oakvale Square Meaters, Wondai, and a life member of the Square Meaters Cattle Association of Australia, Mr Sewell died on November 4, following a brief illness.

He was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.

A lifelong advocate for the Square Meaters breed, Mr Sewell's contributions to the industry were far-reaching.

He was instrumental in the development and promotion of the Square Meaters, both as a breeder and a mentor.

In recognition of his efforts, he was awarded life membership of the breed society in 2016.

Mr Sewell's journey into cattle breeding began after a successful career in breeding paint quarter horses and operating a cabinetry business.

Faced with economic challenges in the horse industry, Mr Sewell and his wife Heather purchased a 40-acre property where they began growing lavender.

Looking for ways to expand their farm's income, the couple decided to introduce cattle into their operation.

It was a decision that would shape the course of their lives.

After extensive research, Gary looked to Square Meaters for their suitability to small-acreage farming, its efficient feed conversion, and early maturity.

In 2002, he purchased his first Square Meaters cows - a herd of four cows with calves at foot - from the breed's founder, Rick Pisaturo.

This marked the beginning of Oakvale Square Meaters.

Under Gary's guidance, Oakvale Square Meaters quickly grew into a respected cattle breeding operation.

His success in the show ring and commitment to quality beef production led to the establishment of Oakvale Paddock to Plate, a venture that showcased his dedication to producing premium, ethically farmed beef.

Gary's impact on the Square Meaters breed extended beyond his farm.

He was a familiar face at agricultural shows across Queensland, where he consistently earned accolades for his cattle.

He also played a key role in the creation of the Square Meaters hoof and hook feature at the Toowoomba Agricultural Show and was an active member of the Square Meaters board for several years.

His efforts to promote the breed through media outlets and the Square Meater website helped raise awareness of the breed's unique qualities and increased its profile in the industry.

Reflecting on her father's legacy, Samantha Lobegeiger said Gary's passion for the breed would be greatly missed.

"The Square Meaters were Gary's true calling and he had an absolute love and passion for them," she said.

"Anyone who had spoken to Gary knows he had the gift of the gab; his mentoring, long chats and passion for the breed will be greatly missed."

Mr Sewell's passion for the Square Meaters breed was matched only by his dedication to mentoring others in the cattle industry.

Julie Gillies, Sunset Park Square Meaters, a fellow Square Meaters breeder and close friend, described Gary as a "mentor and guiding force."

"Gary was fair and equitable - it didn't matter if you were a long-serving life member, a commercial cattle breeder with years of experience or a newbie junior leader, he always had plenty of kindness and encouragement to impart," Ms Gillies said.

"He didn't do things by half measure and he was driven to succeed, he was often highly competitive but he also made sure that we all had our opportunities to market our beef breed."

Mr Sewell was also known for his strong ties to the local community, forging partnerships with suppliers like Terry Nolan of Nolan's Meats in Gympie.

Gary's legacy also includes his active involvement in selling his beef to local butchers and supporting regional events like the Triennial Beef Show.

His work in promoting high-quality, sustainable beef farming left a lasting impression on the industry.

Mr Sewell leaves behind his wife, Heather, their son David and daughter-in-law Kellie, daughter Samantha and son-in-law Ben, and grandchildren Riley, Izabell, and Lane.