Next generation takes centre stage as LambEx26 gets underway
- LambEx
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
MEDIA RELEASE
7 July 2026
More than 1,400 delegates have converged on Adelaide as LambEx26 officially kicked-off.
And the spotlight was firmly on the next generation of the sheep industry.
Already the biggest LambEx on record, the conference has attracted more producers than ever before, with producers making up more than half of all delegates.
More than 100 international visitors have also travelled to LambEx26, while nearly 50 per cent of delegates are under the age of 40, highlighting the industry's investment in its future.
The opening day of the world's biggest sheep industry conference focused on inspiring and equipping young people for careers across the sheep and wool supply chain, ahead of the main conference program on Wednesday and Thursday.
South Australian Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, the Hon. Clare Scriven MLC, officially opened the conference, while the Australian Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry Acting Assistant Secretary Mary O’Connor told the crowd she was looking forward to the LambEx AMPC Carcase Showcase because it highlighted the possibilities for the sheep industry.
LambEx Taskforce Chair Jamie Heinrich said it was fitting the conference began by investing in the industry's future.
"Today's program is all about the people who will lead this industry over the coming decades," Mr Heinrich said.
"We've brought together young producers, researchers, service providers and emerging leaders from across the globe to learn from one another, build networks and develop the skills they'll need to take our industry forward.
"The future of Australia's sheep industry depends on attracting great people and giving them the confidence and opportunities to succeed."
The youth-focused program featured the LambEx Coles Trailblazer Competition, the LambEx Junior Jumbucks competition for 14 to 18-year-olds, the Hour of Power professional development session for those under 35, the Global Sheep Producers Forum Next Generation networking event, a first-timers and solo travellers catch-up, and the Australian Meat Processor Corporation Carcase Showcase participant networking event.
Young delegates from New Zealand, Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom also joined Australians as part of the Global Sheep Producers Forum Next Generation program, strengthening international connections and sharing ideas on the future of sheep production.
LambEx26 continues tomorrow with keynote speakers, producer case studies, technical sessions and more than 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest technology, genetics, animal health, finance, research and development, pasture management and innovations from across the sheep and wool supply chain.
In-conference MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Susan Taylor
LambEx26 Marketing & Comms
0493 384 566
