2026 Women's Field Day - the best one yet!

The Liebe Group’s 2026 Women’s Field Day brought together growers, industry representatives, community members and partners for a fantastic day of learning, discussion and connection at the Dalwallinu Recreation Centre.

The day began with Chris O’Callaghan welcoming attendees and introducing the Women’s Committee, staff, event partners and the values that guide the Liebe Group.

A special moment was celebrating Sophie Carlshausen’s incredible milestone of 20 years with the Liebe Group. Sophie has been a valued part of the team for two decades, bringing warmth, professionalism and dedication to the organisation. The Liebe Group sincerely thanks Sophie for her hard work, support and commitment over the past 20 years.

Emma Pearse then opened the speaker program with a heartfelt presentation about her journey back to farming. Drawing on her background in environmental science, Emma shared how her research experience helped lead her into a rewarding career in agriculture.

Daenia Dundon provided an overview of the risks and rewards of early-sown canola, covering key factors such as plant establishment, soil temperature, rainfall and moisture. She also gave attendees a preview of a new Liebe Group trial looking at different nitrogen rates in early-sown canola.

Brady Green shared an empowering presentation on gender equality in the workplace and the important role it plays in building strong and successful businesses. He also shared stories from his family farm and his daughters’ experiences in agriculture.

Technology and innovation were also a key focus, with Xantippe grower Todd Carter sharing the Carter family’s journey in adopting drones and AI mapping technology on farm. While the process has had its challenges, Todd explained how the technology is now starting to deliver real value through improved spraying efficiency and cost savings.

Lachlan Monsbourgh from Rabobank then explored what agriculture could look like by 2050, what is driving change, and why Australia is well placed in the global agricultural market.

The program continued with Jacky Connolly from CBH Group, who shared her leadership journey and encouraged attendees to embrace change as an opportunity for growth. Her key messages included investing in yourself, remembering you do not have to do everything, being a good human, and recognising that leadership is a journey.

Reagan Manns from RSM provided an informative update on the latest Federal Budget and what the changes may mean for agribusiness, including superannuation, trusts, taxation and capital gains tax.

Attendees also enjoyed a networking session facilitated by Rebecca Fitzsimmons, before Eric Nankivell explored decision-making in the farming sector. Eric discussed how communication, emotions, rules of thumb and bias can influence the way decisions are made.

A grower panel featuring Casey Shaw, Erin Green, Emma Pearse and Ruth Young was another highlight of the day. Facilitated by Eric Nankivell, the panel shared honest and practical insights into decision-making, family dynamics, different personalities and staying positive in the industry.

Following lunch, keynote speaker Di Darmody inspired attendees with her presentation, “Stories from Behind the Microphone”. Di shared her career journey, her love of regional Western Australia, and her experience with workplace stress and burnout. She also shared practical tools to help manage pressure and reminded attendees of the importance of connection.

Mike Thomas from Aviso WA and Rodney Bond from Allstate Insurance provided valuable insights into farm insurance, workplace health and safety, people management, risk, and emerging areas such as cyber and drone insurance.

The final grower presentation came from Ruth Young, who shared her family’s experience introducing lentils into their cropping program at Calingiri. Ruth explained how lentils have become an important part of their farming system, improving profitability and soil health. She also shared insights from her trip to India for the International Pulse Conference and the growing global demand for pulses.

The Liebe Group extends a sincere thank you to all presenters, attendees, caterers, committee members, staff and volunteers who helped make the 2026 Women’s Field Day such a success. A special thank you also goes to Eric Nankivell for doing a fantastic job as MC and helping the day run smoothly.

A big thank you to our event partner Nutrien Ag Solutions Dalwallinu, Diamond Partners RSM, Rabobank, CBH Group and CSBP along with Gold and Silver Partners.

The event once again highlighted the value of bringing women together to learn, connect and be inspired. We hope everyone left with new ideas, valuable connections and practical knowledge to support their businesses, families and communities.