Australia — 16 March, 2026 — Future Farmers Network (FFN), Australia’s leading organisation supporting young people in agriculture, is proud to announce the launch of a major new event: the Future Horticulture Leaders’ Forum (FHLF), debuting in 2026.
Designed to elevate the next generation of innovators, thinkers, and decision-makers in Australia’s rapidly evolving horticulture sector, the Future Horticulture Leaders’ Forum will bring together young professionals aged 18 to 35 for a mixture of workshops, presentations, panels and networking, as well as a dedicated property tour, across two days.
Based on the format of the highly regarded Young Beef Producers’ Forum, the new conference reflects FFN’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the skills, confidence, and networks young Australians need to drive the future of food, fibre and sustainability.
“Horticulture is one of Australia’s most dynamic growth industries and young leaders are central to its future,” said Lauren Roellgen, FFN Chairperson. “This forum will give the next generation nationally, across all facets of horticulture and the supply chain, a platform to learn, collaborate and shape the direction of an industry that increasingly relies on innovation, sustainability and global competitiveness.”
Event Highlights
The inaugural 2026 Future Horticulture Leaders’ Forum will feature a mix of:
- Panel discussions with horticulture entrepreneurs, researchers, and supply-chain innovators.
- Leadership and career development sessions led by industry specialists.
- Future-focused presentations on sustainability, ag-tech, robotics, climate adaptation, and market trends.
- Property tour showcasing cutting-edge horticultural and business practices.
- Networking opportunities with fellow growers, exporters, educators, and young professionals from across Australia.
Supporting the Next Generation
Horticulture stands as one of Australia’s fastest-growing agricultural sectors, with opportunities emerging in protected cropping, high-value exports, regenerative production systems, and technological innovation. The new forum will help young people across all facets of the sector tap into these opportunities and build pathways into long-term, impactful careers.
“We want this event to become the go-to platform for young horticulture professionals, similarly to what the Young Beef Producers’ Forum delivers for its audience in the cattle sector,” said Lily Cochrane, Chair of the Future Horticulture Leaders’ Forum Committee. “Whether you’re from a family farm, corporate enterprise, a supply chain partner, research institution or just starting your journey in horticulture, this Forum will give you the tools and the connections to thrive.”
True to FFN’s ‘by young people, for young people’ ethos, the event is being organised by a committee of young leaders in the horticulture sector who will ensure the program is developed to be engaging and relevant for their peers.
FFN and the FHLF Committee welcomes any individuals or businesses who wish to support the event by way of sponsorship or other means to get in touch at Future Hort Leaders Forum – Future Farmers Network.
Event Details
- Event Name: Future Horticulture Leaders’ Forum 2026
- Dates: 22-23 October 2026
- Location: Toowoomba, Queensland
- Who Should Attend: Young people aged 18 to 35 working or interested in horticulture, including growers, agronomists, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, supply-chain professionals, and tech specialists.
- Registration: Opening soon – updates will be provided via the FFN website at https://futurefarmers.com.au/future-hort-leaders-forum/
About Future Farmers Network
The Future Farmers Network (FFN) is a national not-for-profit dedicated to supporting the development of every young person in Australian agriculture. Led by young people for young people, it is the only organisation of its kind. FFN provides members with opportunities to develop skills, access industry insights, build networks, and strengthen leadership across the entire supply chain. Through events, including the highly successful Young Beef Producers’ Forum, travel and training bursaries, and online resources, FFN is committed to empowering the next generation of Australian agricultural leaders.
Media Contact:
Lauren Roellgen
Chair
Future Farmers Network
0437 233 520
executiveofficer@futurefarmers.com.au
