The Australian Seed Federation (ASF) this year hosted its largest conference, with more than 170 attendees from across the country.
Held on the Sunshine Coast, the event provided a relaxed beach atmosphere which set the perfect tone for this year’s convention.
Over three days, participants enjoyed a diverse range of speaker presentations, a sold-out exhibition hall, and lively social functions.
The convention kicked off with an inspiring leadership day featuring an AI workshop by Julian Moore.
This eye-opening session introduced the fast-developing world of AI technology and how it can be harnessed to benefit the seed industry.
After the workshop, attendees engaged in the seed business challenge, held in the form of a lawn bowls competition, which was won by Mark Schmidt from Deacon Seeds.
The following two days featured a variety of presentations on topics such as sustainability, including updates on the bagMUSTER program, workforce dynamics, blockchain, pollination, and plant breeding innovation.
The women in seed lunch demonstrated the network's continued growth, with a full room of participants coming together to support women in the industry.
Guest speaker Caitlin Crowley led a thought-provoking discussion on the role women are playing in shaping regional Australia.
At the gala dinner, thanks to DLF Seeds, ASF recognised dedicated industry members through an awards presentation and celebrated recent graduates of the seed industry professional program.
The prestigious president’s award was presented to Bill Brown of Mainfreight.
Mr Brown has been active in the Australian seed industry for around 30 years and has gained a reputation as Australia’s go to man for queries about seed imports.
His dedication has allowed him to gain a high level of expertise in seed imports and biosecurity matters and he has always been an active member of the ASF and deserving of the award.
This year, ASF introduced two new awards to honour excellence within the industry.
The 2024 Centor Oceania women in seed award was presented to Melissa Gooseman of DLF Seeds, for her outstanding dedication and potential within the Australian seed industry.
Ms Gooseman’s key contributions to the industry include product development and innovation of pasture seed products, value addition through training and support, management of regional pasture trials, mentorship of young graduates, and a keen passion for agriculture and farmer support.
The 2024 RAGT emerging leader award was awarded to Ben Farmer, founder of Wilkei Seeds, for his strong commitment and impactful involvement in the seed industry.
From starting his career in agriculture to founding Wilkei Seeds in 2021, he has actively advocated for the lucerne seed industry, and his contributions include chairing Lucerne Australia, participating in the AgriFutures Australia pasture seeds strategic plan, and serving on the pasture seed industry sustainability framework steering committee.
Alysha Lockley, a well-known and respected member of the ASF team, was also celebrated at the gala dinner and presented with a trophy recognising her 15 years of service to the federation. During this time she has developed strong relationships with members and a deep passion for the Australian seed industry.
As part of the event, the Australian Seed Federation’s board was elected, with Tim March of Rijk Zwaan appointed president. He is joined on the board by Dale Skepper, RAGT Australia, Ken Cunliffe, AgEtal, Craig Myall, Synergy Seeds and Rowena Petrie, Royston Petrie Seeds. ASF also thanks outgoing director, Tim Pepper.
In summing up the event, ASF chief executive Katherine Delbridge said Seed Business 2024 was our biggest and most successful event yet.
“It truly showcased the strength and enthusiasm of our industry - we are excited about the path ahead as we continue to grow and strengthen the seed industry together.”
ASF will partner with the New Zealand Grain and Seed Trade Association for a combined seed business convention in Christchurch, New Zealand, October 25-28, 2025.
