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Future proofing agriculture through the next generation

Key takeaways

  • Practical financial advice and real-world success stories highlighted the importance of budgeting, succession planning, diversification, and staying informed about market opportunities in agriculture.
  • The forum brought together researchers, Traditional Owners, advisors, producers and policymakers from across Australia to tackle shared challenges in drought and climate resilience.
  • Resilience was a central theme, spanning soil health, innovation, personal wellbeing, and strong community networks, with presenters showing how adaptability and collaboration are key to future-proofing farms
  • The TNQ Drought Hub was proud to be a forum sponsor, supporting JCU researchers and engaging directly with young producers to strengthen future farming resilience and regional research relevance.

The future of Australia’s agriculture is in good hands, with a generation of producers ready to adapt, diversify and lead.

The Next-Gen Ag Forum, hosted by A Place To Call Home Podcast, held on 1 August in Townsville, brought together young producers, financial experts, and ag innovators to inspire and equip the next generation with practical tools, real stories and connections.

From rising input costs and stagnant commodity prices to land access, labour shortages and climate variability, the forum laid out the challenges but also the pathways forward.

Key takeaways incuded:

  • Resilience goes beyond land management, it includes relationships, finances and fit-for-purpose innovation
  • Diversification, co-design and succession planning are critical to long-term sustainability
  • Mentorship, knowledge sharing and community ties strengthen the future of agriculture
Next-Gen Ag Forum, Townsville 1 August

The TNQ Drought Hub was proud to be a sponsor of the forum and brought along several James Cook University researchers for the opportunity to learn about the issues impacting young producers. Hub Program Communications Advisor, Emily Harrington attended the forum and said, “It was a fantastic event to be a part of and hear everyone’s stories about how passionate and determined they are to be a part of the ag industry. It was inspiring.”

First-generation farmer Tom Cosentino candidly shared his journey, highlighting the role of resilience, mentorship and determination in securing finance, building credibility and diversifying his farm income. His message was clear on the importance of having a community for support and making connections.

Finance experts Allison Larard and Andrew Cox delivered no-nonsense advice on business plans, succession planning, investments and long-term security. They covered everything from leveraging superannuation and managing tax, to using the “rule of 72” for compounding wealth.

The financial panel session drilled into the importance of budgeting, communication, and seeking professional advice, reinforcing that resilience includes financial literacy and strong business habits. Emerging market trends, including ESG and carbon opportunities were also explored, with calls for producers to stay informed and think long-term about sustainability.

The forum also delved deep into cropping opportunities in the north. Presenters discussed soil health, infrastructure, vegetation management and the value of doing the basics well, and getting the right agronomy support, sharing knowledge, and collaborating with neighbours.

Stories from Jacob Wolki, Kylie Stretton and Kale and Karin Robinson inspired the crowd. From value-adding farm products and community butchery models to starting from scratch and scaling up, these producers showed how determination, innovation and calculated risk can transform businesses.

Disability advocate and farmer Katherine Reed reminded attendees that resilience isn’t just about land and livestock – it’s also about personal grit, wellbeing and accessibility. Her story brought depth and humanity to the forum’s conversations.

The Next-Gen Forum served as a reminder that the future of farming will be led by those who adapt, connect and act, strengthened pathways for the next generation of resilient producers.