Keynote Speakers
Sarah Corcoran
Recognised among Australia’s leading scientists, Sarah has received multiple awards for her contribution to biosecurity and the protection of Australia’s plant health.
From a young age, Sarah developed a strong fascination with natural science. Her career has taken her across Australia and beyond, connecting with like-minded people committed to making a difference. Her work to stay ahead of emerging risks spans three Australian states and territories.
Today, Sarah remains firm in her belief that plant health is the backbone of our existence. As CEO of Plant Health Australia, the trusted coordinator of Australia’s biosecurity system and an organisation internationally recognised for leadership in plant health and biosecurity, she brings together expertise, knowledge and stakeholders to generate practical, future-focused solutions that strengthen Australia’s biosecurity outcomes.
Richard Heath. BSc (Hons), GAICD
Richard Health is the Chief Executive Officer of Australia’s largest Cooperative Research Centre, Zero Net Emissions Agriculture CRC. His extensive experience in the Australian agriculture sector extends across multiple high-profile roles including as Executive Director with the Australian Farm Institute, Associate Professor of Agronomy and Farm Management at the University of Sydney and Director at Nuffield Australia Farming Scholars. Richard is a non-executive director of the Grains Research and Development Corporation.
Dr Anthony Kachenko
Anthony Kachenko is an Australian agribusiness leader, driving sustainability and production R&D at Horticulture Innovation Australia. He leads a $500 million, decade-long innovation strategy, including the world-first Hort Innovation venture fund with Artesian Venture Partners. Recognised with the Kendle Wilkinson Award for excellence in horticultural innovation, Anthony is known for delivering impactful industry programs. He holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Science, a Master’s in Agribusiness, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Dr Anthony Kachenko's attendance is supported by Hort Innovation.
Dr Romulo Lollato
Dr Romulo Lollato is Professor of Agronomy and Extension Wheat and Forage Specialist at Kansas State University, USA. Raised on a family farm in southern Brazil, he holds degrees in Agronomic Engineering from Londrina State University, Brazil and Plant and Soil Sciences and Crop Science from Oklahoma State University, USA.
He leads a team of 15-20 researchers focused on improving wheat and lucerne productivity and profitability at the farm level. Dr. Lollato has authored more than 80 peer-reviewed publications and delivered over 800 Extension presentations in the past decade. His applied research directly informs his Extension program, supporting growers with practical, evidence-based insights. He also serves as Chair of the Wheat Initiative Expert Working Group in Agronomy, Berlin, Germany.
Frank Shadforth OAM
Frank Shadforth is the owner of Seven Emu Station in the Northern Territory and Chairman of Jarrdimba Bayamuku (Strengthen the Children) Aboriginal Corporation. He is passionate about supporting young people and strengthening culture through on-country programs and community leadership. This year he was recognised with an Order of Australia Medal for his service to young people in the Gulf and Northern Territory.
Frank runs cultural tours on Seven Emu Station, sharing knowledge of country, traditions, and way of life. He is also actively involved in bush medicine and wild harvest, focusing on sustainable use of natural resources and caring for the environment. Through his work, Frank combines cultural knowledge, land management, and community development to create opportunities for future generations while preserving Aboriginal culture and connection to country.
Dr Rob Williams OAM
Rob Williams OAM has spent more than two decades working to improve food security in Timor-Leste. Since 2002 he has collaborated with agronomists from the Ministry of agriculture and the National University of Timor-Leste on agricultural research and development programs. Earlier in his career at the Yanco Agricultural Institute in New South Wales, Rob developed a rice crop model used for crop management, yield forecasting and climate impact analysis. In Timor-Leste he led the research team behind the Seeds of Life program, supported by ACIAR and in collaboration with the University of Western Australia, releasing 19 improved crop varieties that continue to support farming families. Rob was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2012 for his service to agriculture in Timor-Leste.
Dr Rob Williams OAM's attendance is supported by ACIAR.
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