In a Rural Exchange podcast series, Beef + Lamb New Zealand Farmer Councillors share key takeaways from the recent LambEx Conference held in Australia.
Five B+LNZ Farmer Councillors and one Kāhui member (a Māori Agribusiness stakeholder) attended the LambEx Conference in Adeliade during early August 2024 along with other B+LNZ representatives.
The conference had over 1,500 international attendees, bringing together the world’s leading sheep, lamb, and wool industry experts to share the latest innovations, research, and industry trends.
All four episodes of the series, hosted by Julia Jones, can be found on Rural Exchange’s Rova channel here. The series covers key takeaways from the tour, diving into the latest sheep farming innovations, global market trends and strategic leadership lessons.
Episode 1: Sheep data and innovation with Steve Nicol and Jenny Mcmurdo
In the first episode, Julia is joined by B+LNZ Farmer Councillors Steve Nichol (Central South Island) and Jenny McMurdo (Northern South Island).
They share highlights from the LambEx event, including exciting new technology like AI for animal health, virtual fencing, and wool harvesting innovations.
Steve and Jenny discuss how data is shaping smarter farming and the focus on improving animal welfare and meeting consumer demands.
Listen to episode one on Spotify.
Episode 2: Bridging perspectives with Hazel Cairns-Willemsen and Dan Billing
In the second episode, Julia Jones is joined by Dan Billing, B+LNZ Eastern North Island Farmer Council Chair, and Hazel Cairns-Willemsen, B+LNZ Kāhui member (a Māori Agribusiness stakeholder) and trustee of Hurakia and Te Tarata Trusts.
Dan shares his thoughts on market trends and the positive energy at LambEx, while Hazel focuses on the importance of blending modern farming with Māori traditions. Together, they discuss how genetics and teamwork can drive the future of sheep farming in New Zealand
Listen to episode two on Spotify.
Episode 3: Insights and innovations from the Field - Mat Sherriff and Jason Griffin
In the third episode, Julia talks with Mat Sherriff B+LNZ Mid Northern North Island Farmer Councillor, and Jason Griffin, B+LNZ Extension Team Manager – North Island, about their experiences at LambEx 2024 in Australia.
They share practical takeaways on new farming techniques, drought solutions, and how the event inspired fresh ideas for sheep farming.
Join us for a straightforward conversation on what New Zealand can learn from LambEx and how these insights could shape the future of farming.
Listen to episode three on Spotify.
Episode 4: Leading Change with Paul Crick and Justine Kidd
In this episode, Julia speaks with Paul Crick, B+LNZ National Farmer Council Chair, and Justine Kidd, B+LNZ GM Extension, who share their reflections from LambEx 2024.
Paul, an experienced vocational educator, discusses how Australia's innovative energy and approach to farming left him inspired with practical lessons to bring back to New Zealand.
Justine shares strategic insights on how data and collaboration are driving success for Australian farmers.
Together, they reflect on how clear signals of collaboration and leadership can move the industry forward.
Listen to episode four on Spotify.
Learn more about B+LNZ at LambEx
More information about B+LNZ at the 2024 LambEx Conference.
This podcast series is brought to you by B+LNZ’s Farmer Council – thank you to them for taking the time to provide insights.