Clarity from Confusion: Simple practical lessons for stronger future

Drawing on his experience as both a farmer and trusted agri-consultant, Andrew McFadyen will reflect on the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly evolving industry. Speaking on behalf of Grower Group Alliance’s National Industry-led Carbon Farming Outreach Program, Andrew will share what he sees on the ground - across family farms and corporate operations - and highlight how CFOP delivers producers the knowledge and skills they need to identify, evaluate and act on opportunities to reduce emissions and improve business resilience.

Key Learnings

1. Smart farmers keep learning forever.
2. Differences in approach between family farmers and corporates.
3. Learning how measuring and managing emissions fits in a contemporary farming operation.

About Andrew

Andrew McFadyen is a highly respected agronomist and farm management consultant with over two decades of experience across corporate and family agriculture. He began his career at Haynes Farm Supplies in Coolah before joining Paspaley Rural Properties in 2001, where he managed a 5,500-hectare cropping program and rose to second-in-command. Returning to his family farm in Lake Cargelligo, Andrew established McFadyen Agricultural Consulting Pty Ltd, helping growers and agribusinesses with strategic planning and data-driven farming decisions. A strong advocate for regional agriculture, he chairs the Grain Orana Alliance and has contributed to national R&D priorities through GRDC’s Northern Region Panel. He is also active in mentoring emerging agronomists and is a leading expert in how farming businesses can benefit from emissions reduction and carbon storage activities. Andrew’s mix of scientific rigour, practical farming experience, and leadership continues to shape Australia’s grains industry and support resilient rural communities.