North Coast farmers invited to get ahead of climate and market change
Farmers and land managers across the north coast are being invited to take practical steps to strengthen their farm businesses at the upcoming North Coast Farming Forum: Climate Smart Agriculture, to be held on 7–8 May at Banyula Farm in the Northern Rivers.
Delivered by North Coast Local Land Services, the two-day forum brings together local farmers, industry experts and advisors to share real-world strategies for managing climate variability, improving productivity and building long-term resilience.
The North Coast Farming Forum is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. This event is also delivered by Local Land Services in partnership with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under the Primary Industries Productivity and Abatement Program (PIPAP).
North Coast Local Land Services General Manager, Alison Bowman, said the forum comes at a critical time for the region.
“Climate conditions, market pressures and recovery from recent natural disasters are all influencing how farm businesses operate.
“This forum is about helping farmers get ahead of those challenges with practical, locally relevant information they can apply straight away - not theory or policy.” Alison said.
Participants will hear directly from farmers and industry experts about what is already working in north coast conditions, with a focus on:
- practical tools to manage climate risk and seasonal variability
- improving soil health, productivity and natural capital
- understanding carbon and emerging market opportunities
- making informed business and risk management decisions.
Alison continued “The best ideas often come from the paddock next door and one of the strengths of the forum is its focus on local knowledge.
“This is an opportunity to connect with other farmers, hear what’s working in similar systems, and build networks that continue well beyond the event.”
The forum is designed for a wide range of producers, including beef, dairy, macadamia, sugarcane, blueberry and mixed enterprises, as well as small and transitioning farms looking to strengthen their approach to climate and business risk.
Attendees will leave with practical ideas, useful tools and clear next steps, along with connections to trusted services and support available across the region.
Supported by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP), a free community screening of the documentary Just a Farmer will also be held in conjunction with event, highlighting the importance of mental health and community resilience in agriculture.
Event details:
North Coast Farming Forum: Climate Smart Agriculture
7–8 May 2026
Banyula Farm, Northern Rivers
Registrations are now open, with places limited. To register or learn more, visit our website.
Media Contact: For more information, please contact Michelle Gapes, Regional Communications Advisor, North Coast/Hunter via email michelle.gapes@lls.nsw.gov.au or 0467 291 890.