Join livestock producers, agribusiness and industry supporters from across the Barossa and surrounds for the BIGG Annual Conference, on Thursday 19 February 2026 at Lambert Estate, Angaston. With the theme Thrive Together: Pastures, Livestock and Farmers, the conference brings together leading experts, local insights and inspiring stories to support resilient, future-focused farming systems including:
- Dr Peter Hayman, Principal Scientist – Climate Applications at SARDI and Deputy Director of the SA Drought Hub, will explore how climate science can support pasture and livestock management, highlighting the value of informed decision-making in modern, data-rich farming systems.
- Olympic marathon runner Jess Stenson (née Trengove) will share how early life experiences helped shape her sporting career and journey into parenthood. Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of elite marathon competition, Jess will unpack the powerful life lessons she has learned along the way.
- Adelaide University's Professor Mark Hutchinson on understanding sheep pain mitigation and interventions.
- Dinner speaker Jane Ferrari, independent consultant and former Global Brand Ambassador at Yalumba Wines, will explore real-world case studies from the wine industry and agriculture to show how “brand fortresses,” shared reputation, and quality-by-association can strengthen individual enterprises and elevate the Barossa as a whole.
- Leighton Wilksch, Director and AgTechnologist, AgByte on using weather and soil moisture data for on-farm decision making.
- Dr Tshewang Dorji on findings from his Adelaide University Drought Resilient Pasture Legume Trial at Mt Crawford.
- Thomas Foods International's Ben Davies will give a livestock industry update.
- BIGG project updates.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with local services and providers through on-site trade displays.
Register now by becoming a BIGG member HERE.
This event is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and delivered for the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.
The 2025 conference Moving Towards Greener Pastures was held on 13 February at Lambert Estate (Angaston).
A lineup of prominent speakers included:
ALLAN PARKER OAM, negotiator & behavioural brain scientist - 'Improving every human Interaction with every person every day'. PAUL MCGORMAN, KI farmer & 2024 Nuffield Scholar - 'Agricultural drones from a farmer's perspective'. MARK INGLIS, Thomas Foods International - 'AU we are in the box seat. Who else is going to supply it?' SARAH WEAVER, University of Adelaide - 'Next generation wool harvesting'. Dinner with presentation from GREG CAMPBELL, former S.Kidman & Co Chief Executive - 'Strategy and culture in the later Kidman years'.Q&A farmer panel facilitated by Talking Livestock's Deb Scammell on the topic 'Livestock farming through challenges and into the future'. Trade displays - learn more about local services and providers. BIGG project updates.2024 Conference - 'Farming Ahead: A Changing Landscape'
Over 95 livestock producers, agriculture students, agribusiness and industry supporters gathered at Lambert Estate (Angaston) on Thursday 8 February 2024.
Seven presenters spoke on topics in response to the theme giving their insights and experiences to assist producers in adapting by adopting progressive strategies in response to an evolving livestock landscape. Whilst dinner guest speaker, best-selling Australian fiction author Fiona McIntosh entertained guests by sharing humorous stories speaking to the conference theme of ‘a changing landscape’.
- 'The Unbreakable Farmer'- Warren Davies
- Insights into Lucindale producer Graham Clothier's farming journey -Graham Clothier
- Breeding and feeding to market specifications: unlocking the genetic potential - Dr Liam Mowbray
- Carbon accounting and natural capital opportunities and challenges - Felicity Turner
- Compare the Pair: Multi vs Conventional Pastures - Brett Nietschke
- BIGG On-farm water innovations technologies project phase 2 - Jane Evans
The BIGG conference was very well supported by sponsors and attendees were able to learn more from local services and providers by visiting the sponsor displays at the conference.
BIGG would like to specifically acknowledge and thank the 2024 Conference sponsors: SA Drought Hub, Landscape SA Northern and Yorke, Landscape SA Murraylands and Riverland, Livestock SA Agri-Silience Program, SA Sheep Industry Fund and Angaston Agricultural Bureau.
