Record-breaking LambEx26 showcases confidence in the future of Australia's sheep industry
- LambEx
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Australia's premier sheep industry conference has concluded after four inspiring days in Adelaide, with record-breaking attendance reflecting the confidence, innovation and momentum driving the future of the nation's sheep industry.
LambEx26 welcomed a record 1,452 delegates to Adelaide from 7 to 10 July, bringing together producers, researchers, processors, exporters, service providers, students and industry leaders from across Australia and nine countries.
The event set new benchmarks across almost every measure, including the largest attendance in LambEx history, the highest ever proportion of sheep producers, the greatest international representation and the strongest participation from young people.
With 51 per cent of delegates identifying as sheep producers, LambEx26 achieved the highest producer representation in the event's history, reinforcing its reputation as a conference built by industry, for industry.
Beyond the record numbers, LambEx26 was characterised by standing-room-only sessions, a buzzing trade hall and an atmosphere of optimism that delegates said made this one of the most engaging conferences in the event's history.
LambEx Taskforce Chair Jamie Heinrich said the event reflected an industry determined to embrace opportunity and work together to shape its future.
"LambEx26 brings our industry together with purpose, optimism and a shared commitment to progress, and I'm proud of the collective leadership behind this year's event," Mr Heinrich said.
"The dedication and goodwill shown across the sector reflect the strength of our community and the momentum driving Australia's sheep industry forward."
More than half of all delegates were sheep producers, while almost half were aged 40 years and under, highlighting strong engagement from both established producers and the next generation of industry leaders.
Mr Heinrich said one of the defining features of LambEx26 was the energy felt throughout the entire conference.
"Everywhere you looked people were connecting, sharing ideas and talking about the future. Sessions were full, the trade hall was buzzing and conversations continued long after presentations finished. It felt like our industry had come together not just to reflect on where we've been, but to shape where we're going."
"LambEx26 has been energised by an outstanding turnout of young producers whose curiosity, professionalism and drive have lifted the tone of the entire event. Their presence, paired with an exceptional speaker program and strong industry support, shows a sector moving forward with confidence, capability and genuine momentum."
LambEx Board Chair Allison Harker said the event's success belonged to the entire Australian sheep industry."LambEx26 is seeing exceptional engagement from young producers and emerging leaders, a clear sign of the confidence they have in the future of our industry," Ms Harker said. "Their energy, combined with the strong backing of partners and supporters across the sector, underscores the momentum driving Australia's sheep industry forward."
LambEx26 established several new event records, including:
1,452 delegates making it the largest LambEx ever held
101 international delegates representing nine countries
51% sheep producer attendance, the highest in the event's history
46% of delegates aged 40 years and under
624 unique organisations represented
1,012 delegates attending the Elders Grandslamb Gala Dinner
103 exhibitors creating the largest trade exhibition in LambEx history
38 sponsors supporting the event
317 delegates participating in LambEx on Tour regional experiences
Across four days, delegates heard from more than 80 speakers covering global markets, genetics, sustainability, productivity, technology, leadership and consumer trends.
A major feature of the conference was the AMPC National Carcase Showcase, which analysed more than 5,300 lambs from producers across five states and three major processors, creating one of Australia's largest datasets linking genetics, production systems and carcase performance.
The conference also featured sold-out breakfast sessions, packed Tech Talks, the Coles Trailblazer competition, networking events, SA regional tours supported by Telstra and one of the largest agricultural trade exhibitions ever assembled for the Australian sheep industry.
LambEx26 concluded in spectacular fashion with the Elders Grandslamb Gala Dinner, where 1,012 delegates gathered to celebrate the achievements of the Australian sheep industry. The ballroom erupted as the now-famous Discoball Sheep, accompanied by a roaming saxophonist, led delegates into dinner in what quickly became one of the defining moments of the conference. The celebration perfectly captured the spirit of LambEx26, an event marked by optimism, connection and a genuine sense of pride in Australia's sheep industry.
The Gala Dinner also saw Victorian Rebecca Farnell crowned as the winner of the Coles Trailblazer Competition, recognising her outstanding leadership and commitment to the future of Australia's sheep industry. The competition showcased some of the country's most promising emerging leaders and highlighted the depth of talent coming through the sector.
Delegate feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing LambEx26 as the best LambEx ever held and praising the quality of the program, networking opportunities and the welcoming, collaborative atmosphere created throughout the week.
From today, full conference delegates will also be able to access the LambEx26 on-demand recordings, enabling them to revisit presentations and catch sessions they may have missed. On demand passes also remain available for purchase at www.lambex.org.au/tickets, allowing those who were unable to attend in person to experience the conference's keynote presentations and educational content.
The organisers acknowledged the significant contribution of sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, volunteers, partners and the many organisations and individuals whose efforts helped deliver the record-breaking event.
While LambEx26 has concluded, the conversations, connections and ideas generated throughout the week will continue to shape the future of Australia's sheep industry.
Planning is already underway for LambEx28, with the host destination expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Media Enquiries:
Lauren Watt
Chief Executive Officer
0417 330 192
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