Program

The 2025 Program is currently being finalised, but to give you a taster of what is on offer:

Tuesday 22 July 2025

10:00 am

Ag Tours

Limited places for some special ag tours! If you’d like to reserve a place, please email events@graingrowers.com.au Please note that IG tours may be to businesses where commercial conflict of interests could occur with some participants and need to be accommodated. As such, GrainGrowers reserves the right to revoke participation if this is identified. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
6:00 pm

Welcome Drinks

The Old Courthouse
Join us at 6pm for Welcome Drinks and get to know your fellow attendees.

Wednesday 23 July 2025

8:00 am

Rego and expo open

Arrive bright and early to give yourself some time to check out the exhibition hall, where you will see what the latest industry supporters and suppliers have to offer. Get yourself a fresh cup of coffee and have a wander around.
8:55 am

Welcome to Country

We meet today on the greater Walyalup area - the traditional lands of the Whadjuk people.
9:00 am

Welcome and introduction

Rhys Turton
9:10 am

Introduction to CBH

Rhys Turton
9:20 am

Keynote: Innovation in Mindset

Anna Meares OAM
Anna Meares, one of Australia’s most celebrated track cyclists, is not only known for her physical achievements but also for her innovative mindset, particularly around resilience, adaptability, and mental strength.
10:20 am

From Sowing to Rowing with Anna Meares & Laura and Ian Gourley

Anna Meares OAM
10:35 am

Morning tea & trade stalls

Connect with other IG attendees and check out some of the fantastic trade stalls!
11:00 am

Cleared for Take-off: Rod Birch’s Flight to Success at Catalina Farms

Rod Birch is the Managing Director of Catalina Farms, a family-owned, 12,500-hectare cropping operation located near Coorow in Western Australia’s northern wheatbelt. Rod will share the story of how he took over Catalina Farms in 1980 and led its journey to success.
11:30 am

Safety First and Last with Stevi Howdle & Professor Michael Quinlan

Michael Quinlan
12:30 pm

Networking lunch - Supported by Farmsafe Australia

It's time for lunch! Get mingling and check out the exhibitors at the trade stalls.
1:15 pm

Big Players, Big Shifts: How Australia Competes in the World Grain Market with Jerome Critch, Head of Grain Marketing at Planfarm

Jerome Critch connects with young growers by keeping grain marketing real, relevant, and easy to understand. He breaks down global trends, pricing, and contracts in a way that speaks directly to the next generation on the land. No jargon—just smart, practical advice to help young growers back their decisions and take control of their grain. Whether you’re new to the game or stepping up in the family business, Jerome brings the kind of insight that sticks.
2:00 pm

Surprise Session

2:45 pm

Carbon Report Launch

2:55 pm

Landing Well: Conversations About Change, Place, and Belonging

In this discussion, panellists share their experiences of coming onto the land—whether returning after time in the city or arriving for the first time. They explore what it means takes to acclimatise to the change.

Next Gen, Next Voice: Shaping the Future of Grain Advocacy

With a focus on the voices of younger growers, the conversation asks: how do the next generation want to be seen, heard, and represented? It’s a timely discussion about identity, influence, and the future of grain advocacy.
3:40 pm

Afternoon tea & trade stalls

Take a well-earned break and explore the trade exhibition.
4:00 pm

Launch of National Alumni Network

Surprise Session!

5:00 pm

Close of Day One

6:30 pm

Activity night - Sponsored by John Deere

Flight Club Fremantle
Join us at Flight Club Fremantle for the 2025 Social Function brought to you by John Deere and test your dart skills with other IG attendees. Activity theme: Sportswear! After being inspired by Olympic greatness all day, come dressed in your favourite sporting attire!

Thursday 24 July 2025

8:00 am

Rego and expo open

Arrive bright and early to give yourself some time to check out the exhibition hall, where you will see what the latest industry supporters and suppliers have to offer. Get yourself a fresh cup of coffee and have a wander around.
9:00 am

MC opening & recap

A quick run-down of all the learnings from day one.
9:10 am

Ability Agriculture

Nigel Corish
9:15 am

Distilling Success: From Local Craft to Global Shelf

Stuart Gregor
Four Pillars Gin is an Australian craft distillery based in Melbourne, known for its innovative and high-quality gins. What began as a small-batch experiment quickly grew into an internationally recognised brand, known for bold flavours, smart branding, and clever storytelling. Their success isn’t just about good gin—it’s a masterclass in branding, innovation, and premium product marketing, all built from the ground up.
10:15 am

Morning tea & trade stalls

Connect with other IG attendees and check out some of the fantastic trade stalls!
10:40 am

Navigating the New with NFF and Nutrien Ag Solutions

David Jochinke
Adrian Capogreco
Join DJ and Adrian for a forward-looking fireside chat on the future of grain growing. This session explores emerging challenges, evolving opportunities, and practical strategies to help young farmers thrive in a changing ag landscape.
11:00 am

Gene Editing Unpacked: What’s Next for Grains

This session breaks down what gene editing really means for the grains industry—and why it matters to the next generation of growers. With the potential to tackle challenges like climate stress, disease, and market demands, gene editing could be a game-changer on-farm. But what are the risks, the rules, and the realities? This is a chance to get clear, practical insights into where the science is headed and the impact this could; have on the grains industry.
11:45 am

Regenerative Ag: What’s the Fuss & Where’s the Opportunity?

This session unpacks what regenerative agriculture means and why it’s gaining global traction. Explore the core principles, clear up common myths, and dive into the real-world opportunities: from access to premium markets and supply chain partnerships to long-term farm resilience. Whether you're curious or already experimenting, this session will look at how regenerative agriculture could influence on farm practice and global trade.
12:45 pm

Lunch - Supported by LoamBio

It's time for lunch! Get mingling and check out the exhibitors at the trade stalls.
1:30 pm

Rabobank, Major Financial Partner - Session

2:00 pm

The Great Debate: Innovation in the grains industry is more advanced and effective in Western Australia than the eastern Australian states

3:00 pm

Managing the Machines of Tomorrow, Today

Meg Kummerow
As machinery in agriculture becomes more complex, expensive, and critical to operations, how can we manage it effectively? This talk brings together insights from four key perspectives, including manufacturer John Deere: Designing for efficiency, durability, and future-proofing, with more speakers to come. Join us for a dynamic discussion on how the industry is adapting to rising demands and how we can balance innovation, cost, and operational efficiency in a rapidly changing landscape.
3:45 pm

Afternoon tea & trade stalls

Your final chance to check out the trade stalls and grab some goodies!
4:00 pm

Grain Supreme: Mascot Showdown

Disney has Mickey Mouse. Maccas has Ronald. Help the Australian grains industry by creating a mascot that reflects the ingenuity, success and sense of humour that Aussies are known for. In teams, you’ll be supplied with the tools and materials to build our new Australian grains mascot.
5:00 pm

Conference close

A wrap-up and close for Innovation Generation 2025. See you at the Official Conference Dinner!
6:30 pm

Official Conference Closing Dinner

Fremantle Prison