4 August 2014 There has never been a better time to determine your future With the upcoming release of the Federal Government’s Agricultural White Paper there has never been a better time to determine what mixed farming systems might look like in the future. An industry‐wide ‘think tank’ hosted by the Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (an alliance between Charles Sturt University and NSW Department of Primary Industries) will explore potential scenarios for securing the future of mixed farming systems in Australia. Critical internal and external drivers of mixed farming systems viability and sustainability will be identified, and recommendations to address these drivers will be developed. The forum will explore challenges and opportunities along the entire value chain, focussing discussion around three key themes: creating a resilient mixed farming system; value adding; and beyond the farm gate. “Business leaders will speak about the opportunities they have identified, challenges faced along the way, successes, failures and their vision for the future of their business,” said Professor Deirdre Lemerle, Graham Centre Director. “We are bringing together representatives from industry stakeholders to provide input into the identification of key issues that drive mixed farming systems, addressing fragmentation along the supply chain and having a united voice to ensure productive, profitable and sustainable food and fibre systems into the future.” Renowned industry and academic commentators will lead and facilitate discussion throughout the day. The day preceding the forum, the Graham Centre will lead two industry tours across the Riverina mixed farming region, providing a richness of alternative business models to draw on and discuss shaping the future. The Future Proofing Mixed Farming Systems Forum will be held on 21‐22 August at the Convention Centre, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga. For further information visit www.grahamcentre.net Register for the forum at E: [email protected] For further details, interviews and photos please contact Toni Nugent, Industry Partnerships and Communications Manager, Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation on mobile 0418 974 775. ‐ends‐ Sponsors: