Future Grounds forum to explore bold ideas for local farmers
In a time of rapid change, with increasing pressures from consumers, supply chains and sustainability mandates, it’s more important than ever for farmers to get informed and contribute to the future of our regional landscapes.
Future Grounds, a one-day forum being held on Wednesday 14 May 2025, will unite the farming community to discuss current issues.
The forum will showcase big-picture thinking around what our future could look like, and practical pathways farmers can take now to leverage current natural capital opportunities.
This event is supported by the Murray Local Land Services Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator. Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators are supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.
Hosted by Murray Local Land Services at The Lincoln, 64 Lincoln Causeway, Gateway Island, this free event will bring together experienced local farmers, expert speakers and community leaders to share practical insights, engaging discussions and bold thinking around regenerative agriculture, climate action, and investing in natural capital. With a strong lineup of respected speakers, panels, and interactive sessions, Future Grounds aims to be a catalyst for collaboration and innovation in the region.
Guest speaker, Michael Godden, farmer and president of Vic No Till, said it’s a real privilege to be part of Future Grounds and to be able to share experiences of farmers helping farmers.
“We need to be part of the conversation and proactively influence what is going to happen, rather than sit back and complain about an unsatisfactory outcome,” he said.
Jade Miles, farmer and CEO of Sustainable Table, is speaking at the event and believes days like these are crucial because they combine the work being done in the community at a grass-roots level with the top-down policymakers and system regulators.
“Future Grounds is an opportunity to bring everyone to the table – the connection of bottom-up and top-down forces is integral to bringing about systemic change that actually works,” she said.
“We’re operating in a rapidly destabilising climate. Farmers are on the frontline of environmental and financial pressures, facing ecological hardship every day and keeping on the front foot to keep systems going.
“Forums like Future Grounds are foundational in making sure farmers who are doing such critical work are involved, engaged and appreciated.”
Emily Wilson, Natural Capital Advisor for Murray Local Land Services, is excited to be part of the event, which will provide opportunities for important, honest conversations.
“There will be a wealth of experience and knowledge on stage covering a range of topics. But the real magic will be in the discussions between audience members and the bright ideas that emerge over a cup of tea,” she said.
“We want to create space for those conversations. We want everyone, especially farmers, to come away feeling more informed, more connected and more empowered to tackle the future of farming confidently.
“We understand that the way farms have to operate is changing, and the number of hats farmers have to wear is increasing. We’re bringing together a broad range of experts to help farmers get ahead of the curve and leave them feeling inspired to advocate for practical solutions that make sense and work at the farm level.”
Award-winning speaker and author Mykel Dixon will MC the event. A complimentary morning tea and lunch will be provided. Guests are also invited to continue the conversation at a networking session in the cocktail lounge following the forum.
RSVPs are essential by Wednesday 7 May 2025.
Media Contact
For more information, please contact Naomi Stephens via naomi.stephens@lls.nsw.gov.au or 0498 772 825.