This month, from 7-10 July, I attended LambEx26, in Adelaide and I can understand why it is seen as the world's premier sheep and lamb conference!
LambEx26 was the largest event in its history, attracting over 1,400 delegates and setting new records for producer participation (51% of delegates), young delegate attendance (46%), international representation (101 delegates from 9 countries).
Highlights for me included the strong representation (and passion) of young producers and their discussions on succession planning and innovation. It was also great to see leading WA producers like Hillcroft Farms showcasing their production systems, and a processor panel discussion on value and data that included WAMMCo.
There was plenty of interest around new paddock technology, virtual fencing and artificial intelligence and what this could mean for production, efficiency and value capture.
The Future Flock consultation paper was also released by Sheep Producers Australia as the first industry-wide national strategy for Australia's sheepmeat and wool industries.
I had the opportunity to meet many growers and industry representatives from across Australia, as well as bumping into a few familiar WA faces as well!
New grant program - now open
The Farm System Productivity Program is open for applications between 22 July - 3 September 2026.
This program provides funding to assist priority actions and activities identified in the WA Roadmap to 2028 as part of the $5 million WA Roadmap Implementation Fund.
The program enables a broad range of project ideas that align with the WA Roadmap to 2028 and deliver benefits across the broader WA sheep industry that improve productivity, profitability and industry collaboration.
Grants of $50,000 to $750,000 (GST exclusive), are available. The program is competitive, does not require co-contributions, and is open for both not-for-profit and commercial entities.
If you have a project idea that could benefit the sector, I encourage you to apply.
