The annual Summer Grains Conference has wrapped up for another year with Elders proudly serving as the Platinum Partner for the 2025 premier event.
Elders staff gather at the Summer Grains conference on the Gold Coast.
Held at the Gold Coast, the conference brought together agronomists, researchers, growers, and industry leaders to explore the future of grains in Australia and beyond.
With a prominent presence throughout the three-day program, Elders showcased its commitment to innovation, industry excellence, and next-generation leadership.
Elders CEO Mark Allison delivered a compelling keynote address highlighting the megatrends shaping Australian agriculture, from changing climate and digital transformation to global food security and evolving consumer expectations.
“We need systemic resilience through policy, infrastructure, and innovation to ensure our food systems can withstand the shocks of a changing climate. We also need a calm and consistent approach to policy, and not alarmist over-reach,” said Mr Allison.
“Contrary to some of the dialogue out there, we know that producers are already heavily invested in sustainable land management,” he said.
“In a recent Elders study, we found that 98 per cent of growers already use at least one sustainable farming practice and 49 per cent had intentions to improve weather and climate resilience in the coming years.
“This should encourage us to continue to improve on the work we are doing and embrace ESG (Environmental Social Governance) metrics across the sector. The trend of greater ESG scrutiny creates an important opportunity for growers to not just adapt but to more widely position agriculture as a leader in the transition to a net-zero economy.
“This can be enhanced with a balanced, evidence and fact-based debate on agriculture and regional and rural Australia.
“I truly believe that Australian agriculture is well-positioned to lead globally in sustainable, high-value food production, but only if it embraces innovation, resilience, and long-term stewardship.”
Elders team members played leading roles across the event, chairing sessions, presenting awards, and contributing their expertise to multiple panels. The Young Leaders Forum featured contributions from emerging Elders agronomy talent Georgia Rodgers and Nerav Ramasar, who shared their personal insights and aspirations for the grains industry.
Newly appointed Elders Chief Agronomist Alex Greetham praised the calibre of the event and the outstanding efforts of Elders’ representatives saying, “It was fantastic to witness this event together with the brightest minds and newest innovations in our sector.”
“I couldn’t be prouder of how our team presented themselves, particularly our younger staff who brought energy, fresh thinking, and exceptional professionalism to every panel and discussion.”
The event culminated in the highly anticipated Elders Gala Dinner and Awards, where Elders celebrated its own high-performing team members alongside broader industry peers:
- Aleasha Bertinazzi was awarded the Zoe McInnis Memorial Award for her outstanding contribution to agronomy. This prestigious accolade includes a $5,000 study tour to support further professional development.
- Flynn Menner was named runner-up in the Rising Star Award, sponsored by Bayer. As a graduate agronomist specialising in plant genetics and breeding, Flynn has already made an impressive impact in his field.
- Millie Bach was recognised as a nominee for the Women in Agriculture Award, demonstrating leadership and passion in her role.
Congratulations to Aleasha, Flynn, and Millie on their well-deserved recognition. Their achievements reflect the values that underpin Elders’ vision for a sustainable and prosperous future for the grains industry.
We are proud to be at the forefront of driving progress in the grains industry, supporting excellence, and fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders.