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About AgTrendsAs part of the Wakool Agri-Innovation Program, it was envisaged that two Innovation Forums would be in held in 2020 and 2021. The theme for 2020 was the exploration of diversification opportunities and value adding to farm businesses. The theme for 2021 was intended to be a showcase of new technology and innovation in agriculture.
Due to the Covid-19 global pandemic, one forum was held in October 2020, with the second transformed into a number of smaller workshops allowing for capacity limits on events at the time. A second AgTrends Innovation Forum is still on the cards and we are currently seeking additional funding streams to help bring this concept to life. |
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AgTrends Innovation Forum 2020The 2020 Innovation Forum was held on the 15th October 2202 at the Moulamein Bowling Club. The forum featured 6 guest speakers and a Q&A session with each speaker.
The quality of local produce was also on display with the 70 attendees being treated to a locally curated menu.
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2020 Guest Speakers
Bruce Pascoe, Farmer & Author of Dark Emu
Bruce provided insights into traditional indigenous farming methods, native plant and grass species, and the significance of intergenerational farming. He also shared his daily motivation and rituals. 
Vince Heffernan, Moorlands Biodynamic Lamb
Vince spoke about implementing a direct-to-market approach when it comes to selling lamb. He shared the inevitable challenges as well as the successes of cutting out the middleman. |
Olympia Yarger, Goterra
Olympia spoke about rising to the challenge of reducing waste in agriculture and how this can be done by producing alternative high-protein insect-based feed for stock. 
Craig Carter, farmer
Craig provided insights into the diversity of plant species, and the correlation between below ground biology and plant and soil health, and stocking to land capability. |
Ros and Daimien Vodusek, Rich Glen Olive Estate
The Voduseks highlighted the power of value adding has to a farming business. They shared their first-hand experience of how to pivot and think outside the square in times of adversity. 
Grant Sims, Down Under Covers
Grant spoke about the importance of finding the root causes of issues when it comes to diseases and pests, as well as the challenge water management in low rain fall environment. |
Speaker highlights
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Event Partners:
This event was a WMLIG initiative, facilitated by Regionality and made possible through funding from the Australian Government as part of the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program.
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