The seed industry revelled in being back together again after a 3-year long hiatus at the ASF Seed Business Convention 2022.
Held from 17–18 August at the Hilton, Brisbane, the convention is the premier event on the seed industry calendar. In all, 120 delegates from across Australia representing over 60 seed and agriculture companies, came together to hear from industry speakers, network, and catch up over a drink or two at the social events.
Convention delegates had the opportunity to network and
learn from industry at the convention and trade exhibition.
Tim Pepper, the outgoing Australian Seed Federation (ASF) president welcomed delegates saying; “It has been a tumultuous three years since we last gathered as an industry, and as my tenure as ASF president draws to a close, I would like to reflect on what brings us together as an association… a mutual passion for a seed industry that drives productivity and sustainability in Australia and around the world.”
Over the 3-day event, convention delegates were immersed in the breadth and diversity of the Australian seed industry, from industry education and training, leadership, domestic and international seed health priorities, intellectual property reform, stewardship initiatives and international aid programs.
CEO of the Australian Seed Federation, Osman Mewett said it was a jam-packed agenda with top calibre speakers, but there was plenty of time for social gatherings, business meetings and networking.
The convention opened with the Seed Industry Training and Leadership Day, giving delegates the opportunity to brush up on seed industry specific training and develop their leadership skills. The leadership session was delivered by Beau Robinson, business and leadership coach, and former rugby union champion. Mr Robinson challenged the future leaders of the industry and gave insights into his own journey.
The Convention featured the inaugural ASF Women in Seed Luncheon. Mr Mewett said the Luncheon was a huge success and sold out within days of tickets going on sale. Guest speaker Maree Crawford from Elders gave some insightful and inspirational views on the challenges women face in the agricultural industry and shared experiences she has faced in her career in the agriculture sector.
Maree Crawford (Elders), guest speaker at the inaugural Women in Seed Luncheon.
“Delegates had a packed agenda of plenary speakers to hear from over the course of the event, providing insights into current industry topics, projects, research, government and industry initiatives. The ASF AGM saw the election of the first ever female president of the ASF, Rowena Petrie of Royston Petrie Seeds.
“The Convention Gala Dinner is the premier annual social event for the seed industry, and the 2022 event at Custom’s House Brisbane didn’t disappoint. The event was a sell-out, with guests enjoying the beautiful venue, and were honoured to have Michael Milton OAM as guest speaker. Michael shared his experiences as an athlete and business owner, talking about his need for speed and his competitive spirit.”
Paralympic skier Michael Milton OAM, entertained
delegates at the Gala Dinner at Customs House Brisbane.
Mr Mewett said the ASF Secretariat is already looking ahead to the 2023 event and look forward to welcoming delegates without so long between drinks next time!
