TMA conference to focus on ‘disruption’

The Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia (TMA)’s annual conference will be held in Sydney for the first time this year, with a focus on disruptive technology and what it means for the industry.

According to TMA executive director, Gary Northover, ‘disruption’ can be positive as long as people are ready for it.

“Change has never happened at a greater pace, and for machinery manufacturers that means new opportunities as well as new challenges,” he said.

“We’re heading towards a world where farmers could 3D print their own machinery parts and farm managers might not even be on the same continent as the farm.”

“Our conference this year is on the theme of ‘Thriving in the Face of Disruption’, and it will be all about how our members and our industry can prepare for the changes ahead,” Northover added.

“There are plenty of opportunities for equipment manufacturers and dealers to be a part of these changes and to help drive the industry in a positive direction.”

The conference will include thought-provoking presentations on a wide range of topics - from the future of food to the increasing use of robotics in agriculture and how to attract and retain staff in the industry.

Speakers for the day include David Chuter from the Innovative Manufacturing CRC; Rabobank Agriculture Analyst, Wes LeFroy and Bosch Agriculture Sector Specialist, Jesse Reader.

Aussie cricket legend, Kerry O’Keeffe, will make a special appearance at the conference dinner.

Agriview will also present the latest agricultural machinery sales report, which has proven to be a conference highlight every year.

“As we wrap up two consecutive years of record breaking tractor sales, this is a great time for our industry to take stock and really think about what the future holds,” Northover said.

“This is a call to action for industry to tackle questions around trade wars, technology changes, the social media upheaval and employee engagement.”

The 2018 TMA conference will take place at the Novotel Sydney Brighton Beach hotel on July 17.

For more information on the conference or to book tickets, visit tma.asn.au.