Program

Agritourism Unlocked: Harvesting New Opportunities

*Program is subject to change

Day 1 – Tuesday 12 August

08:15 – Registration & Networking

Meet fellow attendees, grab a coffee, and connect before the sessions begin.

08:50 – Welcome

Where Australia’s Agritourism Journey Begins

09:00 – Opening Address

Senator the Honourable Nita Green, Assistant Minister for Tourism

09:15 – Opening Session

From Paddock to Plate: In Conversation with Matt Moran

A fireside chat exploring Matt’s journey as a chef, farmer, and champion of Australian produce. He’ll share his passion for connecting food to place, the realities of running both farm and hospitality businesses, and how we can get more local produce on local menus.

09:55 – Panel Discussion

Agritourism Stories in Action: From Coast to Country

From immersive seafood experiences in Tasmania to luxury farm stays in New South Wales, this panel showcases agritourism operators who have built successful ventures — sharing their journeys, lessons learned, and advice for those looking to start or expand their own offering.

10:40 – Morning Tea & Networking
11:00 – Global Insights

The Global Agritourism Roadmap

Two leading voices in global agritourism — Tim Parsons of Curringa Farm, Tasmania, and Kerry Moss, CEO of Quadrant Australia — share key global trends, visitor expectations, and where Australia sits on the international stage.

11:30 – Visitor Insights

Lessons from a Lap around Australia – Agritourism Through a Visitor’s Lens

Led by Jack Plimmer of Salt Tree Advisory, this session explores agritourism through a visitor’s lens — what’s working, what’s memorable, and where there’s room to improve — drawing on insights from a year-long road trip around Australia.

11:00 – Business Insights Session

The Agritourism Toolkit: What Every Business Needs to Know

Practical tips on how to start or scale your agritourism venture.

10:35 – Morning Talk

Adapt and Thrive: Building Inclusive Farm Destinations

11:45 – Breakout Sessions

Open Gates, Open Minds

  1. Developing Your Agritourism Strategy
    Clarify your vision, audience, and experience offering to build a strong foundation for your agritourism venture.
  2. Breaking Down Barriers to Success
    Navigate the practical challenges of permits, insurance, staffing, and compliance with confidence.
  3. Building Your Agritourism Brand
    Learn how to craft a compelling brand and use storytelling to attract and connect with your visitors
12:30 – Networking Lunch
13:30 – Afternoon Address

The Hon. David Littleproud MP

Leader of The Nationals, Shadow Minister for Agriculture, and Federal Member for Maranoa

13:45 – Policy Panel

Permission to Grow: What Needs to Change

A lively discussion on key barriers to the sector, enabling policies, and how to unlock the sector’s full potential.

With:

  • David Littleproud, Leader of the National Party 
  • Tim Mortimer, CEO of BNB Made Easy
  • Michael Cains
14:30 – Workshop

Sowing the Seeds: Strengthening Agritourism Collaboration

Join a discussion on how we can better connect efforts across regions, reduce duplication, and build momentum for the future of agritourism in Australia. This session is about sharing ideas, identifying common goals, and exploring how we can collectively support the growth of the sector.

15:15 – Afternoon Tea & Exhibitor Showcase
15:45 – Afternoon talk

Adapt and Thrive: Building Inclusive Farm Destinations

Josie Clarke, founder of Ability Agriculture, shares the value of inclusion for people of all abilities and the opportunities it creates for farms and communities alike

16:00 – Next Gen Panel

Shaping Agritourism: Young Voices, Big Visions

Hear from young voices in the sector about their ideas for shaping the future direction of Australian agritourism.

16:45 – Closing Keynote

Dare to Be Different: Building a Bold Vision

Paul Martin, Co-Founder of Summer Land Camels in Queensland, shares the bold thinking, setbacks, and mindset shifts behind building one of Australia’s most distinctive agritourism destinations.

17:25 – Closing Remarks & Networking Drinks

Day 2 – Wednesday 13 August

Familiarisation Tours

Details to come

Pick Up & Drop Off location will be Orange Visitors Centre on Byng Street.

Bus Pick Up: 8:30am 

Bus Drop Off: 3:00pm