NTCA CEO Paul Burke said this year’s conference program is designed to “challenge, stimulate and promote thought and discussion among delegates” with a focus on the “Innovation Generation” that awaits the northern beef industry. 

Events will begin on the Thursday with the ever popular Ladies Lunch, which will see close to 130 women unite to relax and enjoy each others company while being treated to great food and wine at the highly regarded Tali Restaurant at Lasseters.

Guests not attending the NTCA members only annual AGM, will have the opportunity to travel to Orange Creek Station to get a glimpse of the diverse agricultural opportunities present in the region. The tour will also encompass a visit to the Bohning Yards facility, which in 2016, became the first Australian saleyard to gain National Certified Organic accreditation.

After the AGM and tour finish, guests can catch up for a yarn during the NTCA and Pioneer Tanks Welcome Drinks at the Convention Centre from 5.30pm.

From 7.30am the following morning conference registrations will open.

Mr Burke said the conference will “target high level and ‘over-the-horizon’ themes devised to expose delegates to emerging opportunities and challenges, while stimulating thought and discussion”.

“Delegates registered for this year’s event will hear from experts in innovation, technology, and the concepts that could potentially disrupt the way NT beef producers do business.”

“Blockchain, artificial intelligence and virtual reality are a few of the ideas and insights that will be discussed.”

NTCA president Tom Stockwell will welcome delegates and set the agenda for the day, while Federal Minister for Agriculture and Water David Littleproud will present the opening speech.

“Delegates will have the privilege of hearing from one of Australia’s most distinguished military leaders when Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC (Ret'd) delivers the keynote address, sharing insights into how to bring about positive cultural change.”

In addition the diverse selection of speakers assembled for the conference, a panel session will also take place centered around the theme ‘Future Perspectives’.

The session will see a panel of industry leaders including Mr Stockwell, MLA chair Dr Michele Allan and CCA president Howard Smith, and NFF president Fiona Simson, share their insights into an ever-changing beef supply chain, the perceptions of an increasingly informed consumer, and opportunities for the northern beef herd.

A highlight of the conference will come when Territory Minister for Primary Industries and Resources, Ken Vowles announces the winner of The Alward Foster Memorial - Emerging Indigenous Pastoral Leader Award.

Proudly sponsored by the Warriner family, the award, introduced in 2017, recognises an emerging indigenous leader who espouses the attributes of the indigenous stockmen and women who contributed to the pioneering of the Northern Territory pastoral sector.

Chief Minister of the Northern Territory Michael Gunner will deliver the closing address for the conference at 4.30pm, allowing delegates time to get scrubbed up for the NTCA and AACo Gala Dinner taking place at the Alice Springs Turf Club from 6.30pm.

“The NTCA team is proud to deliver a world-class conference program with topics relevant to the pastoral and associated agribusiness. Please take the opportunity to be challenged, inspired and, most of all, enjoy.”

For enquiries call the NTCA office on (08) 8981 5976 and visit the website for updates.