29 July 2026, AU: The three-day program focused on the role agronomists play in helping growers make practical, informed and profitable decisions. Sessions explored topics including financial decision-making, agronomy strategy, sustainability and market insights. In addition, a dedicated field trip program showcased innovation and research across South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula and Mid North regions.
For Elders Chief Agronomist Alex Greetham, the event was about strengthening the national agronomy network and ensuring those connections continue long after the conference has concluded.
“We’ve come together as a national network for the first time on this scale. If there’s one thing I’d like everyone to take away from the last three days, it’s the importance of relationships,” Alex said.
“Putting on an event like this is valuable, but it only delivers lasting benefit if we carry that momentum forward. We need to be deliberate about maintaining those connections, sharing ideas, asking questions and learning from one another.”
With delegates coming from across Australia, representing diverse farming systems and regions, the forum created valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, compare local challenges and learn from one another’s experiences.
Agronomist Alana Hartley from Northam Western Australia, said building relationships across the network was one of the most valuable aspects of the event.
“We have a great team in Western Australia but having a national network and seeing how connected we all are is phenomenal,” Alana said.
“The connections we’ve made will support our development moving forward. Not only does it help younger agronomists within the team, but industry connections beyond our own organisation are critical.
“Bringing that knowledge back to our growers demonstrates our commitment to our profession and reinforces trust in the advice we provide.”
The field trip program gave participants the opportunity to experience regional farming systems firsthand through visits to properties, research trials and demonstration sites. This included sites such as the Elders Roseworthy Technology Site and YPAG trial sites. Agronomists engaged directly with growers, researchers and industry partners to explore the practical application of precision agriculture and other emerging innovations.
The program also featured the first Elders Agronomy Awards, recognising outstanding contributions across the network:
Kate Connolly (Goulburn, NSW) was recognised as Rising Star
Anne Millar (Geraldton, WA) received the Emerging Agronomist Award
Catherine Chenoweth was presented with the Chief Agronomist Award
Adam Hancock (Naracoorte, SA) received the Innovation Award
Elders Coonamble was honoured with the Supplier Award.
Elders extended its appreciation to Platinum Partner Titan Ag and all 23 supplier partners for their support, collaboration and contribution to the success of the forum.
Reflecting on the event, Alex said bringing agronomists together from across the country reinforced the strength of the Elders network and its shared commitment to delivering trusted advice.
“The closer we are to our clients, the better we understand their businesses, their challenges and their goals. That’s where we can create the greatest value as advisers,” he said.
Global Agriculture is an independent international media platform covering agri-business, policy, technology, and sustainability. For editorial collaborations, thought leadership, and strategic communications, write to pr@global-agriculture.com
