NTCA Conference 2026: Delivering practical outcomes for the Northern beef industry
The 2026 Northern Territory Cattlemen's Association's (NTCA) Annual Industry Conference, held in Darwin in March, brought together producers, researchers, government representatives and industry stakeholders from across northern Australia, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in supporting a resilient and productive beef sector.
With more than 90 exhibitors and a strong program of technical and strategic sessions, the conference continues to grow as a key forum for sharing knowledge, strengthening networks and aligning efforts across the supply chain.
This year’s theme, Better on Beef, focused on continuous improvement. Improvement not just through new technologies and research, but through ensuring these innovations are relevant, practical and suited to northern production systems.
A key feature of the program was the Nutrien Ag Solutions Tech and Tea Day, which combined on-ground demonstrations with applied presentations. Sessions explored water security, solar infrastructure, genomics, remote monitoring and digital tools, with a strong emphasis on adoption pathways that are realistic for northern operations.
The panel session 'Adoption or adaptation? What’s the real issue in the North' provided a valuable discussion on the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing new practices. Panellists highlighted that the issue is often not willingness to adopt, but ensuring solutions are appropriately designed for northern environments, scale and workforce realities.
Across the broader program, contributions from government, research organisations and industry leaders highlighted the importance of data-driven decision making, market awareness and coordinated investment in research and extension to support long-term industry sustainability.
Despite significant seasonal challenges across parts of the Territory, including widespread flooding and infrastructure impacts, attendance remained strong. This demonstrated the value placed by industry on connection, information sharing and maintaining engagement during periods of disruption.
The conference also provided an important opportunity to recognise and invest in future industry leadership. The 2025 Georgina Pastoral Future NTCA leaders graduated during the week, marking the culmination of their involvement in the program and their continued contribution to the northern beef industry.
NTCA was also pleased to announce the continuation of the annual Northern Beef Leadership Initiative, delivered in partnership with Teys Australia and Angus Australia, reinforcing a shared commitment to building capability across the next generation of industry leaders.
The conference also highlighted the strength of industry support for community and capacity-building initiatives. More than $130,000 was raised through the AACo x NTCA Gala Dinner auction, supporting programs including the Georgina Pastoral Future NTCA program, alongside organisations focused on mental health and regional education.
The week provided an opportunity to recognise leadership within the industry, including the awarding of NTCA Life Membership to Ann Stanes and the inaugural Ian McBean Memorial Award to Jeremy Scott.
The continued success of the NTCA Conference reflects the shared commitment across industry, government and service providers to work collaboratively, support innovation and ensure the northern beef sector remains productive, resilient and future-focused.
