Collaboration drives award-winning approach to agricultural technology adoption
Connecting technology developers directly with farmers is fast-tracking the adoption of practical agricultural innovation, with a collaborative field day project recognised at the 2026 Ag Excellence Forum & Awards.
The 2026 GRDC Grower Group Award was presented to Agritech Meetup SA for its Automated Weed Control at Hart Field Day initiative, delivered in partnership with the Hart Field Site Group.
The award recognises grower group activities that strengthen knowledge exchange, encourage innovation and deliver practical outcomes for Australian agriculture, with the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) proudly supporting the award for the first time in 2026.
The winning initiative demonstrated three contrasting commercial automated weed control systems at Hart Field Day, drawing 223 attendees across three sessions.
Live demonstrations, facilitated discussions and dedicated networking gave growers and technology developers the chance to learn directly from one another. The project also brought developers from Adelaide to the event, where they heard first-hand about the challenges growers face and the solutions they need — helping bridge the gap between innovation and practical on-farm adoption.
GRDC Chair and South Australian grain grower, Mrs Sharon Starick, said GRDC was proud to support the 2026 awards, with the winning initiative highlighting the invaluable role grower groups play in connecting research, technology and on-farm practice.
“Weeds are one of the most costly and persistent challenges facing grain growers, which is why initiatives such as the Automated Weed Control Day, are so important in bringing innovative weed control technologies closer to on-farm adoption.
“The collaboration between Agritech Meetup SA and the Hart Field Site Group to deliver this weed control day was an excellent example of how partnerships can accelerate and support the adoption of new technologies by growers.”
The $10,000 prize will support Agritech Meetup SA to continue building stronger links between farmers, researchers and technology developers, and to expand opportunities for grower groups to collaborate on emerging agricultural technologies.
Ag Excellence Alliance Vice Chair, Mr David Evans, said the awards recognised both the projects shaping the future of agriculture and the people whose commitment had built the strong grower group network supporting that innovation.
“Innovation doesn't happen in isolation. It is driven by passionate volunteers, strong grower groups and partnerships that bring farmers, researchers, industry and government together to solve real-world challenges.”
Other Award Winners
Ag Excellence Perpetual Award for Outstanding Service - Matt Dare
A farmer, former researcher and consultant, Mr Matt Dare received the 2026 Ag Excellence Perpetual Award for Outstanding Service for more than three decades of service to Australian broadacre agriculture, including 25 years of volunteer leadership with the Hart Field Site Group.
He has served as Chair, Vice Chair, Board Member, Commercial Crop Manager and Sponsorship Committee member, guiding research, supporting industry partnerships and mentoring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Mr Evans said Mr Dare's contribution reflected the dedication of the volunteers who underpin South Australia's grower group network.
“For 25 years, Matt has generously contributed his time, knowledge and leadership to Hart and the broader agricultural community. His willingness to mentor others, support independent extension and champion grower--led research has left a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit the industry for years to come.”
Two further awards were presented on the night. Molly O'Dea, Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator with the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, received the 2026 Agricultural Institute of Australia (SA Division) Jim McColl Young Consultant Award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to leadership, extension, education, research and mentoring.
Nicholas Mignanelli received the 2026 Agricultural Bureau of South Australia Sustainable Agriculture Scholarship, supported by the Department for Environment and Water. He will undertake an international study tour investigating leading dairy production systems and nutrient recycling practices, and share those learnings through industry networks and on-farm extension activities for the benefit of South Australian agriculture.