Under the theme “Are We Future Ready?”, this year’s TMA conference addresses the urgent question facing Australia’s agricultural machinery sector as it adapts to accelerating technological, environmental, and economic change
The Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia’s 2025 annual conference is set to take place on Thursday July 24 at the Hyatt Essendon Fields in Melbourne.
With an agenda focused on bold thinking and real-world solutions, the 2025 conference will explore everything from digital disruption and data-driven farming to machinery trends and the mental health of rural communities.
The first batch of conference speakers have been announced, and are:
Lachlan Monsbourgh – Rabobank (The Future of Farming and the Role of Data)
As agricultural and environmental Lead in Rabobank’s global rural portfolio, Lachlan will discuss how the future of farming is being shaped by environmental responsibility, data management, and evolving global expectations.
Drawing on his experience in commodity trading and plantation management across Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Mexico, Lachlan brings a global perspective grounded in practical realities.
Robbie Sefton AM – Seftons (Primed for Progress: Innovation, Growth, and Opportunity in Agriculture)
A nationally respected voice in regional Australia, Robbie will speak on harnessing innovation and leadership for rural growth.
With experience spanning business, government, and non-profits, she brings rich insights into shaping a resilient, future-forward agricultural sector.
Gus Hogan – Delta Agribusiness (Insights from On-Farm Advisors on Machinery and Technology)
As precision ag manager at Delta Ag, Gus will share real-world experiences from the intersection of agronomy, data, and machinery.
With a background in engineering and agtech, Gus will unpack the evolving role of agronomists and precision agriculture specialists in influencing machinery decisions and outcomes.
Melinda Haley – Kynetec (State of the Industry)
Melinda has in excess of 20 years’ experience in data analysis and research within the agricultural industry globally.
She is widely regarded as a thought leader in the provision of business intelligence, data mining, predictive analysis and data visualisation in food, fibre and biotechnology.
A cornerstone of her success is attributed to her ability to understand the challenge and then blend multiple data sets to provide deep market insights.
Justin Smirk – Westpac (Economic Update)
A veteran economist with over two decades of experience in financial markets, Justin will present a comprehensive update on Australia’s economic landscape – including labour trends, commodity markets, and the outlook for agricultural finance.
Brad Hogg – GPA Mental Health Initiative (Mental Health in Agriculture)
Former Australian cricketer and now national ambassador for Grain Producers Australia’s Farmer Mates Mental Health program, Brad will deliver a powerful talk on mental health in rural Australia.
Drawing on his own experiences, Brad’s message aims to reduce stigma, encourage connection, and raise awareness of support resources for farming communities.
More speakers will also be announced in the coming weeks.
This year’s TMA conference promises to challenge, connect, and inspire – bringing together the minds and voices shaping the future of the industry.
Whether you’re a dealer, manufacturer, advisor, or stakeholder in the machinery supply chain, this is your opportunity to be part of the conversation.
For tickets and further details, visit https://tma.asn.au/2025-annual-conference/
