Thrive together: BIGG 2026 Conference unites livestock industry in the Barossa

Informing On-Farm Decision-Making

A strong line-up of speakers provided attendees with timely, relevant knowledge to support resilient and profitable grazing businesses.

• Professor Mark Hutchinson, University of Adelaide, explored the complexities and current limitations in understanding animal pain. He outlined emerging interventions — including targeted drug use during procedures such as lamb marking — with the potential to improve both animal welfare and productivity.

• Dr Peter Hayman, South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), delivered an in-depth update on advances in weather forecasting, demonstrating how producers can apply forecasting tools to both day-to-day operations and long-term strategic planning.

• Leighton Wilksch, AgByte, shared practical approaches to integrating weather and soil moisture data into on-farm decision-making systems.

• Ben Davies, Thomas Foods International, provided a comprehensive livestock market outlook, highlighting current trends and the factors influencing producer confidence and market direction.

• Dr Tshewang Dorji, University of Adelaide, presented findings from the recent Mt Crawford pasture legume trial, focused on improving drought resilience and pasture productivity.

BIGG Technical Facilitators Brett Nietschke and Deb Scammell also outlined the group’s key project activities, including mixed pasture trials, a lined catchment demonstration site, the eID grower group initiative and the BIGG internship program — all aimed at strengthening local capability and evidence-based practice.

Inspiration Beyond the Paddock

The Conference also featured a powerful keynote from Olympic marathoner Jess Stenson, who shared her journey as an elite athlete and mother. Her reflections on resilience, discipline and determination resonated strongly with producers navigating seasonal variability and industry pressures.

At the conference dinner, Barossa identity Jane Ferrari entertained guests with stories from her 25 years at Yalumba, where she served as the company’s global storyteller. Jane emphasised the importance of building “brand fortresses” through authentic storytelling — a message equally relevant to agricultural businesses seeking to differentiate themselves in competitive markets.

Building Resilient Grazing Businesses

“At the heart of BIGG is a commitment to supporting our producers with evidence-based information they can apply on farm,” BIGG Chairperson Julian Maul said.

“This year’s conference was about giving livestock producers the confidence and tools to make informed decisions — whether that’s responding to seasonal variability or strengthening pasture performance. Seeing so many producers come together to share experiences and learn from each other shows the strength of our region and our shared determination to build resilient, profitable grazing businesses.”

The BIGG Annual Conference was strongly supported by sponsors, with attendees also engaging with local service providers and industry organisations through sponsor displays.

BIGG gratefully acknowledges and thanks the 2026 Conference sponsors:

• SA Drought Hub

• Landscape SA Northern and Yorke

• Landscape SA Murraylands and Riverland

• Livestock SA Sheep Industry Fund

• Meat & Livestock Australia

Together, the 2026 BIGG Conference highlighted the strength of the Barossa livestock community — united in its commitment to thriving together through shared knowledge, innovation and collaboration.