Register now for Forum2021 – A Climate of Opportunity in Ag

Ag Excellence is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for its annual forum and awards. A networking and knowledge building event that will draw producer groups and industry together around a complex topic and share some of the opportunities that exist to take farm businesses profitably ahead as we move toward a carbon-neutral future.

Heading to the regions for the first time, Forum2021 will be held on 9 August 2021 at the Novotel Barossa, South Australia. The full-day forum will feature scientific, industry and producer presentations that provide a positive and practical outlook at the farm level to address the challenges of achieving carbon targets.

“The line-up of highly respected speakers will address climate impact and mitigation strategy in the agricultural landscape, for the long-term protection of our natural resource. This important event will value add to the current industry-wide conversation and motivation towards a carbon-neutral future”, said Leet Wilksch, Ag Ex Chair.

Professor Mark Howden, Director at ANU Institute for Climate, Energy and Disaster Solutions will provide a detailed look at the current climate of agriculture. Mark has vast experience working on issues including agriculture and food security, the natural resource base, ecosystems and biodiversity, energy, water and urban systems.

Fiona Simson, President of the National Farmers Federation (NFF) and Farmer at Liverpool Plains in NSW, will present the facts on NFF’s bold vision for a carbon zero target by 2050. Climate change is a central feature in the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap for agriculture to reach $100 billion in farm gate output.

Mr Wilksch says, “this ambitious policy highlights the reality that agriculture is facing an immediate need to create clear pathways for carbon neutrality. Some landholders are already undertaking initiatives to reduce emissions however many are still confused about where to access concise information on how to sustainably adapt their farming practices whilst maintaining profitability”.

Professor Richard Eckard at the University of Melbourne and Director at Primary Industries and Climate Challenges Centre will address this need for knowledge by presenting some of his research findings and options for agriculture to adopt carbon methods, trading, markets and tools.

A number of additional speakers and facilitated panel sessions will also feature on the day in the quest to build awareness and the capacity of key influencers within this space. Delegates will have the option to break out into an individual panel session on their chosen agricultural sector including viticulture and horticulture; broadacre cropping; and livestock.

The day will culminate with the Awards Gala Dinner where industry colleagues will gather to network and celebrate Grower Group achievements with the winners of the PIRSA Grower Group and Ag Excellence Perpetual Award announced.

Seats are limited and registration is essential via the Eventbrite link.

More information available on the forum page.