The 2026 NTCA Annual Industry Conference returned to Darwin in March, bringing together producers, researchers, industry leaders and service providers from across northern Australia for 3 days focused on connection, capability and the future of the beef industry.
Building on the momentum of recent years, the conference continues to grow in both size and impact. With over 90 exhibitors this year, the conference reinforced its place as a key event on the northern beef calendar.
This year’s theme, Better on Beef, set the tone, highlighting not just the strength of the industry, but the opportunity to keep improving how we operate, adopt new ideas and back each other in the process.
A program grounded in practical outcomes
The conference opened with the popular Nutrien Ag Solutions Tech & Tea day, combining hands-on demonstrations with practical presentations focused on productivity, technology and on-ground application. From water security and solar pumping solutions to genomics, drones and herd monitoring, the sessions emphasised one consistent message: innovation only matters if it works in the paddock.
A highlight of day 1 was a panel discussion following lunch, Adoption or Adaptation? What’s the Real Issue in the North, challenged the idea that northern producers are slow to adopt new practices, instead highlighting the importance of fit-for-purpose solutions in northern systems.
Day two shifted to the broader operating environment, with strong contributions from government, industry and market analysts. Key sessions explored the future direction of the northern beef industry, global market outlooks and the role of data and decision-making in building resilient, profitable businesses.
Strong turnout, stronger connections
Despite challenging seasonal conditions across parts of the Territory, including wide spread high-impact flooding and infrastructure damage, attendance remained strong. The effort made by producers and industry to get to Darwin was a clear reflection of the value placed on coming together as a sector.
As always, the strength of the conference extended beyond the formal program. Conversations in the trade hall, at demonstrations and across networking events reinforced the importance of connection between producers, service providers and the broader supply chain.
Backing the next generation and the broader community
A highlight of the week was the AACo x NTCA Gala Dinner, which once again demonstrated the generosity and commitment of industry.
More than $130,000 was raised through the dinner auction, with funds supporting a range of initiatives including the Georgina Pastoral Future NTCA program, Dolly’s Dream, ICPA NT and It’s A Bloke Thing. The result is a testament to the strength of industry support and the shared commitment to investing in people, communities and the future of the sector.
The evening also provided an opportunity to recognise outstanding contributions to the industry. Ann Stanes was awarded NTCA Life Membership, acknowledging her significant and longstanding contribution to the Northern Territory cattle industry.
In a special moment, Jeremy Scott was announced as the inaugural recipient of the Ian McBean Memorial Award, recognising his commitment to the industry and the legacy of one of the north’s most respected figures.
From leadership development to mental health and regional education, the outcomes of the auction will have a lasting impact well beyond the conference itself.
Better on beef
At its core, the NTCA Conference continues to reflect what makes the northern beef industry unique. It’s our resilience, our practicality and our willingness to show up, contribute and move forward together.
In a season that has delivered both opportunity and challenge already, the 2026 conference provided a timely reminder that while conditions may vary, the strength of the industry lies in its people.
Because in the Territory, we are and will continue to be – better on beef.
Jessie Daniels
Regional Director
NTCA
