Transforming the Farm Succession Story for prosperous futures

Family Farm Succession can be a challenging aspect of  multi-generational family farming. War stories of "succession done bad" are rampant across the globe and across sectors.  Fear and the resulting chronic procrastination can leave the farm business in a state of inertia and the  family plagued by frustration and friction.When tackled early with due consideration and thoughtfulness, Family Farm Succession is an opportunity to unlock personal and business potential for the next 20 to 30 years, transforming both the family and the farm business. A pathway to achieve this shift will be presented.

Panel | Collaborating across borders for climate resilience and food security

This panel discussion will begin with an inspiring story from Stephen Todd, founder of Volt Farmer. The Australia-Zambia Collaborative Clime Smart Farm Project is one of enterprise and ingenuity as two groups come together to pioneer a new generation of Agri-solar and regenerative farming projects some might consider a living blueprint for the future of sustainable agriculture.

By integrating advanced solar energy systems, regenerative land management, and cutting-edge farm enterprise technology, these projects are transforming rural communities. The initiative empowers local entrepreneurs, improves food security, and restores ecosystems—all while fostering economic opportunity and climate resilience.

This story is indicative of a wider opportunity warrant great discussion.
The spirit of openness and meaningful collaboration goes beyond the feel-good factor. The latest scientific research results and digital tools can be harnessed to optimise productivity, monitor ecosystem health, and support data-driven decision-making. 
Join this panel for lively conversation on:

• Real-world examples of cross border partnerships driving enterprise, education, and environmental stewardship.
• Collaborating to achieve reliable clean energy, climate-smart irrigation, and regenerative land use.
• The role science and digital developments can play in maximising yields, protecting natural resources, and supporting community-led innovation.

About Kate

Dr Kate Burke is' an agri-strategist, author and keynote speaker with specialist knowledge in the science and strategy of broadacre farming and direct investment in farmland. Kate connects the dots between people, productivity and profit to build better farmers, better farms and healthy thriving families and communities.
Kate recently published Crops People Money and You, The Art of Excellent Farming and Better Returns and regularly contributes to The Guardian Newspaper, Rural Network and Rural Business Magazine. Kate was the 2021 recipient of the GRDC Seed of light award.