“Growing Futures – Breaking Barriers” – that is the theme of this year’s Australian Women in Agriculture National Conference, which brings together women from across the sector and the country to explore leadership, innovation, sustainability and advocacy in ag.

This year’s event is taking place from August 5-7 at the Stamford Grand in Adelaide, with regional farm tours available after the conference.

The not-for-profit started in 1994 and continues to be Australia’s peak organisation for women across all areas of agriculture, committed to uniting and raising the profile of women in ag.

This year’s conference will feature keynote speakers, workshops, panel discussions and offer networking opportunities as well as regional tours.

Su McCluskey

Attendees can expect to hear from Su McCluskey, Australia’s inaugural Special Representative for Australian Agriculture under the government’s Global Agriculture Leadership Initiative.

Sarah Curran, who is a member of the Executive Leadership Team at Thomas Foods International, Australia’s largest 100% family-owned red meat processor, will discuss TFI’s strategic vision on a global scale and how HR serves as a strategic partner that helps elevate performance across the business.

Associate Professor Kate Gunn, who works with farmers and other rural people to understand their health and mental health-related strengths and challenges, will also be a guest speaker.

The closing address will be delivered by cattle producer and agricultural advocate Georgie Somerset, who will focus on how to create impact and inspire growth both as an individual and as a collective.

The full program and details about the regional tours can be accessed on the Australian Women in Agriculture website.

This year there are sponsored tickets available for grain growers and producers in drought and flood affected regions, which cover the cost of the conference registration including the welcome dinner, two days of conference and gala dinner.

“Thanks to the support of individual donors, the CSIRO and GRDC these have been made possible,” said AWiA acting president Cressida Cains.

“The ag industry is doing it tough right now, from drought and floods to rising pressures, it’s more important than ever to keep our rural and regional women connected, inspired, and supported.”