Young Farmer Business Program - Boots | Banter | Big Ideas

Young people in ag - this one’s for you.

Make the most of AgQuip week and head to The Gunnedah Rugby Club, for an evening of good conversation, fresh ideas and new connections.

Hosted by the Young Farmer Business Program, Boots | Banter | Big Ideas is a chance to hear from local farmers, connect with other young people in agriculture and share ideas in a relaxed setting.

From cattle stations and cotton farms to agribusiness and community leadership, hear from a panel of young agricultural leaders as they share their experiences, challenges and insights into building careers and businesses in agriculture.

MC: Rhiannon Heath - A Senior Policy Advisor at NSW Farmers, with a focus on intensive livestock industries, animal welfare, and biosecurity. She grew up on a farm in the Liverpool Plains and has a background in environmental science. Prior to her current role, she worked in the NSW Farmers Environment Team, where she specialised in renewable energy policy.

Panel:

Mel Bartlett - An emerging agricultural leader from Gunnedah, Mel runs an agricultural contracting business with her husband while playing an active role in several community organisations. A 2026 RAS Rural Achiever Finalist and NextGen Gunnedah committee member, Mel is passionate about leadership, community development and creating opportunities for the next generation in agriculture.

Chennelle Winsor - A young Gomeroi woman who has built a diverse career across the Australian cattle industry, working in mustering, station operations, saleyards and feedlots. A passionate advocate for agriculture and young people in the industry, she was a state finalist in the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show NSW Young Woman Competition and is committed to inspiring the next generation in Australians Agriculture

George McCalman - A fourth-generation cotton grower from Gunnedah, George combines experience from both agriculture and the banking sector. After completing the Future Cotton Leaders Program in 2024, he remains committed to driving positive change within the Australian cotton industry. George and his family were also finalists for the 2024 Bayer Grower of the Year Award.

Jane Bower - An Agribusiness Lending Specialist with RIC, bringing 30 years of experience in banking, agribusiness and rural communities. Raised in the Horton Valley and now based in the Hunter Valley, Jane and her husband operate their own beef cattle enterprise and stock and station agency, giving her a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Australian farmers.

Enjoy a panel discussion with local farmers, followed by time to catch up, meet new people and build your network.

Canapés provided

Drinks available to purchase from the bar

Come along, bring a mate and connect with other young people in ag.

Places are limited - register now.