CALLING ALL GROWERS: FREE RIDE TO FUTUREAG EXPO

Australian grain producers and industry members can see the future of autonomous farm machinery on display, at the FutureAg Expo early next month, where Grain Producers Australia will also be presenting on our proactive work, preparing for this technology’s imminent landing in Australian grain paddocks. 

GPA has been working with industry and global expertise, since 2019, to pioneer the safe and effective arrival of autonomous farm machinery, in Australian agriculture. This joint partnership between GPA, the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia (TMA) and Society of Precision Agriculture Australia (SPAA), developed a groundbreaking Code of Practice for Agricultural Mobile Field Machinery with Autonomous Functions in Australia, and other resources. HERE 

GPA will present details of this innovative partnership, at the FutureAg Expo that’s being held from August 6-8 at the Melbourne Showgrounds – and has 30 complementary tickets to give away. GPA will also present findings from a national grower survey on adoption, connectivity and on-farm challenges. 

GPA is encouraging all growers and industry members to attend Australia’s premier trade event for agricultural machinery, innovation, and farming solutions; especially those in the local region, from the Victorian Farmers Federation, and GPA’s members, the VFF Grains Group. HERE 

GPA Chief Executive Colin Bettles and RD&E Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann will feature among the speakers, outlining the need for Australian producers to access safe and practical autonomous farm machinery, in future, as supported by the Code of Practice developed between GPA, TMA and SPAA. 

Mr Weideman said with the imminent arrival of autonomous farm machinery technology in Australia was being driven by multiple factors – especially affordability and key areas such as digital connectivity. 

“FutureAg is a chance for producers to see hands-on demonstrations of cutting-edge technology that will shape the future of agriculture, hear from others already using it, and be part of shaping the next steps for our industry. GPA recognises producers’ needs are central to its future adoption,” he said. 

Last year, GPA conducted a national survey of broadacre producers on autonomous farm technology. Results of this initial survey – as per GPA’s FutureAg presentation – showed growers have strong interest in autonomous machinery. It also highlighted key barriers to adoption, including costs, workforce transition and the need for regulatory clarity. Another survey will be conducted in 2025. 

Victorian Farmers Federation Grains Group President, Ryan Milgate, said forums such as FutureAg helped put producers in the driver’s seat to learn more and stay ahead of industry trends. 

“It’s not just about having the technology available, it’s about making sure it works in our paddocks, with our systems, and we’re properly supported to use it. For growers to be able to speak to the manufacturers and developers, hear their feedback and learn from it, helps provide the next steps on a credible pathway to implement something on-farm in future, that works for everyone,” he said. 

Mr Bettles said the FutureAg Expo event also featured a fantastic line-up of conference speakers from across the industry, on a diverse range of subjects; including media identities, and Episode 3. HERE 

To receive complimentary tickets, register with GPA HERE  FutureAg Expo HERE 

GPA also has an exclusive discount for those wishing to attend the full conference which provides 10 per cent off full conference passes using the code: FUTUREAGGPA10. 

GPA is listed to speak on Day 2 of the Conference agenda, at 1.55pm HERE  

Mr Bettles said he was also looking forward to hearing Mr Milgate speak, as member of the VFF Panel that’s on stage prior to lunch on the same day of the Conference (midday) covering the important topic: ‘The big issues facing local farmers and the busy, hidden world of agricultural advocacy’. 

Later in the day, TMA Executive Director Gary Northover will present a detailed look at machinery sales for the 2024 calendar year complete with an update to June 2025, and related matters. 

Mr Bettles said GPA was also pleased to know Australian cricketing legend and country born and raised Brad Hogg, would be presenting at the TMA Annual Conference – that’s being held at Hyatt Essendon Fields,

Melbourne, on Thursday next week (July 24) – in his role as National Ambassador for GPA’s Farmer Mates Mental Health program. 

This initiative partners GPA with other supporters including Nufarm Australia, Rural Aid, Lifeline Australia and the Grains Research and Development Corporation.  

As part of his Ambassador role, Brad is headed to Pingrup in the Western Australian Wheatbelt, for a special community event this Saturday (19 July) at the Pingrup Shear Shed.  

This free community gathering will be shared with the WA Grains Group, the local Lions Club and bringing locals together to discuss mental health against the backdrop of varied seasonal conditions. HERE 

Brad will be returning to Victoria, as part of this year’s partnership program and national tour, to attend the Elmore Field Days (7-9 October), working with VFF and its members. HERE 

Mr Bettles said whether on the road, in the air, or speaking in a podcast HERE while someone’s listening in the cabin of a semi-autonomous machine that being guided across a farm paddock somewhere, Hoggy was committed to helping make a genuine difference, on mental health and farmer wellbeing, for Australian farmers and rural communities. 

Main 2025 Program Events – featuring FMMH National Ambassador, Brad Hogg.  

• Dowerin Machinery Field Days (WA) – 27–28 August  

• Yorke Peninsula Field Days (SA) – 30 Sept–2 Oct  

• Elmore Field Days (VIC) – 7–9 October 

ENDS 

Further Information: 

GPA Executive Officer Communications Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193