Program is subject to updates - stay tuned for more!
Over two jam-packed days and three nights, the 17th annual Innovation Generation conference is set to be one of the best yet. Attendees will hear from leading speakers across many interactive sessions and come away with new connections with other young growers and ag professionals. Join us on the sunny Gold Coast!
Tuesday 23 July 2024
10:00 am
OPTIONAL: John Deere Crestmead Facility Tour (limited places)
John Deere, Crestmead facility
A special optional tour of John Deere’s head office and facility in Crestmead with a behind-the-scenes look at the operation in action. Hear from Luke Chandler, Managing Director and Ben Kelly, Production System Manager plus several product and technology specialists over many short sessions. The tour includes the opportunity to see a selection of Small Grains equipment and technology including See & Spray™ and the new S7 Combine firsthand.
Please note, this tour is free and is an optional add-on, however, places are strictly limited. To register, please insert the code CRESTMEAD when purchasing tickets. Further details will be provided.
6:30 pm
Welcome Reception
Shooey's Sports Bar, Crowne Plaza Surfer’s Paradise
Join us for an evening of relaxed networking and vibrant conversations at our casual mixer! Kick off the conference by connecting with fellow attendees over light refreshments and engaging icebreakers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the industry, this event promises to set the stage for meaningful connections and valuable interactions. Get ready to expand your network and forge new relationships in a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere.
Wednesday 24 July 2024
8:00 am
Rego and expo open
Crowne Plaza Surfer’s Paradise
Arrive bright and early to register and give yourself some time to check out the exhibition hall, where you will see what the latest industry supporters and suppliers have to offer.
9:10 am
'Exploring the Future of Ag’ - Futurist Keynote Session
9:30 am
Crafting Your Career: Mastering Communication, Elevator Pitches, and Personal Branding
This session on career development will delve into the importance of effective communication, perfecting elevator pitches, and understanding personal brands.
Attendees will learn the importance of crafting compelling narratives about their skills and experiences, essential for networking and interviews.
10:25 am
Morning tea & trade stalls
Check out some of our fantastic exhibitors during the break!
10:45 am
PANEL: Exploring Agriculture's Role in Addressing Global Climate Challenges
Tegan Nock
By highlighting opportunities for sustainable agriculture through innovative practices and technology, this session will empower growers with practical strategies to enhance resilience and productivity in the face of climate challenges.
Gain valuable insights and actionable steps to optimise your farming practices, improve resource efficiency, and understand the global landscape of climate change.
11:30 am
Farm Safety with Shane Webcke
Shane Webcke
Join us for an impactful session on the critical importance of safety in all aspects of life. Drawing from his experiences as a former professional rugby league player turned safety advocate, Shane will share compelling insights on the value of prioritising safety - from the sports field to the workplace and beyond. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge and inspiration from one of Australia's most respected voices on safety.
12:00 pm
Succession Planning
Plenary
This session aims to address a critical issue in our farming community: the smooth transition of assets and responsibilities to the next generation. It will highlight the importance of overcoming complacency and offer expert insights into the emotional and financial challenges involved. It will offer practical strategies to initiate conversations and sustain momentum, emphasising the involvement of crucial stakeholders like facilitators, accountants, and bank managers.
The session will address common pitfalls and offer insights into navigating them effectively. A panel discussion, featuring industry experts and individuals with firsthand experience, will provide valuable guidance and inspiration for participants.
Exploring Careers in Ag
Breakout room
Discover the diverse opportunities awaiting you beyond the fields at our insightful panel discussion on alternative careers in agriculture! Join us as we explore the vast spectrum of professions that contribute to the agricultural industry, from agribusiness and technology to sustainability and policy. Hear from experts who have forged successful careers outside traditional farming roles and gain valuable insights into the exciting possibilities within this dynamic field.
12:50 pm
Lunch & trade stalls
It's time for lunch! Get mingling and check out the exhibitors at the trade stalls.
1:30 pm
Tech-ready growers - Unlocking real benefits on farm
Attendees will gain valuable insights into how technology can improve farming operations, based on real-life experiences shared by early adopter growers. Additionally, the session facilitates knowledge exchange among participants, allowing them to learn from innovative growers and gain 'over the fence' insights into successful tech adoption strategies.
2:30 pm
Navigating to Success: Sailing the Seas with Resilience and Mental Agility
Lisa Blair
Resilience and mental agility are essential qualities for success in any field. In 2017, Lisa Blair made history. Just seven years after discovering sailing at the age of 25, Lisa became the first woman to sail solo around Antarctica with only one stop. After surviving a dramatic dismasting at sea, Lisa demonstrated her resilience and determination. Attendees will be inspired to cultivate resilience and mental agility, enabling them to effectively manage risks and overcome the storms of growth, stress, and disruption in their professional lives. By sharing her life and work principles for navigating to success, Lisa provides actionable strategies that agricultural leaders can apply to their own roles and responsibilities. This keynote session will empower delegates to thrive in dynamic and uncertain environments.
3:30 pm
Afternoon tea & trade stalls
Take a well-earned break and explore the trade exhibition
3:55 pm
Tech in the Field
By focusing on the practical applications of cutting-edge technology in agriculture, this session highlights how modern growers are leveraging innovative tools and techniques to improve productivity and streamline operations on the farm. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into how technology is revolutionising farming practices, and will learn firsthand about the benefits of integrating new tech into their agricultural endeavours, including increased efficiency, reduced resource use, and improved decision-making. By showcasing real-life examples of how technology is being implemented on farms, this session provides actionable knowledge and inspiration for attendees to adopt similar advancements in their own operations.
4:55 pm
Conference day 1 wrap-up & end
6:30 pm
Trivia Night - Sponsored by John Deere
Crowne Plaza Surfer’s Paradise
Gather your wits and join us for a night of friendly competition at our highly anticipated Trivia Night! Test your knowledge across a wide range of topics as teams battle it out for the title of Trivia Champions.
Thursday 25 July
8:00 am
Expo opens
Crowne Plaza Surfer’s Paradise
Ready for day two? Grab a coffee and check out the expo!
9:00 am
MC recap
A quick run-down of all the learnings from day one.
9:05 am
Advancing Agriculture Through Digital Transformation
This session delves into the digital transformation of agriculture, impacting farm inputs and workforce dynamics. Attendees will explore advancements like aerial imaging and precision agriculture software, optimising resource usage and enhancing farm efficiency. Led by industry leaders such as Tim Neale and Tim Howell, participants gain insights into leveraging digital tools effectively, empowering them to adapt and contribute to agricultural innovation.
9:45 am
Research and Commodity Markets
Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into market trends, commodity prices, supply and demand dynamics, and potential trade opportunities. This will assist agricultural stakeholders in making informed decisions regarding production, marketing, and export strategies. By offering insights into current market conditions and future projections, this presentation empowers delegates to navigate the complexities of global trade and maximise opportunities for market access and growth in the agricultural sector.
10:45 am
Morning tea & trade stalls
Connect with other IG attendees and check out some of the fantastic trade stalls!
11:00 am
To be announced
Stay tuned for more info!
11:30 am
To be announced!
Stay tuned for more info!
12:45 pm
Lunch & trade stalls
1:30 pm
Panel: Diversity in Agriculture
The innovation pipeline relies on diversity across various dimensions, including career stage, age, education, gender, and more. Attendees will gain insight into the pivotal role of diversity in driving innovation within agriculture. By understanding how diverse teams generate creative solutions and challenge assumptions, participants will learn to harness a wide range of perspectives to advance industry practices and drive progress in the agricultural sector.
2:30 pm
Supply Chains of the Future
Plenary
Explore the future landscape of supply chains with our insightful session focusing on innovation and opportunities for growers. Discover how growers can strategically position themselves by vertically integrating along the supply chain, gaining greater control and efficiency. Learn about the advantages and challenges of taking charge of export processes, empowering growers to expand their reach and maximise profits. From farm to market, this session will delve into cutting-edge strategies and emerging trends shaping the supply chains of tomorrow.
Australian Grain Leaders Program (AGLP) Project Presentations
Breakout room
The Australian Grain Leaders Program (AGLP) is designed to help emerging leaders in the grains industry develop the skills needed to thrive.
In this session, current participants of the program will discuss the projects they are undertaking as part of the AGLP.
3:30 pm
Afternoon tea & trade stalls
Your final chance to check out the trade stalls and grab some goodies!
4:00 pm
Interactive Problem-Solving Session (‘Dragon’s Den’)
Engage in dynamic problem-solving! In this session, delegates form teams to tackle specific ag-related challenges and engage in lively discussions to come up with innovative ideas to address them. Teams then present a solution to their challenge and open conversation to the floor, promoting cross-sharing of insights and sparking further discussion with other delegates. This session encourages teamwork, creative problem-solving, and knowledge exchange, with a side of networking!
5:00 pm
Conference close
A wrap-up and close for Innovation Generation 2024. See you at the Official Conference Dinner!
6:30 pm
Official Conference Closing Dinner sponsored by GRDC
The Glass House @ The Island
Wrap up the conference in style at our official closing dinner. Join us for an evening of celebration and camaraderie - delight in gourmet cuisine, raise a glass to new friendships, and prepare to be entertained by an unexpected twist that promises to leave you amazed. With laughter, good company, and a touch of excitement, this closing dinner is sure to be the highlight of your conference experience. Don't miss out on this memorable finale!