Canberra, 17 to 19 February 2027

Agricultural Shows Australia National Conference 2027

The Agricultural Shows Australia National Conference returns in 2027 — proudly hosted in Canberra from 17–19 February, leading into the historic 100th Canberra Royal Show.

Conference Tickets

2027 Bursary applications

Accommodation

The Canberra Rex Hotel

The Canberra Rex Hotel has provided a special group booking rate for conference delegates.
Rate Access Code: EVENTS
Discount Code: ASA27

Book Accommodation

Accommodation	Approx. distance from The Rex	Some notes
Madison Capital Executive Apartments, 108 Northbourne Ave	600–800 m walk	Close enough to walk to the conference; continental breakfast is included. Phone (02) 6185 1922. (Madison Hotels & Suites)
Canberra Accommodation Centre, 210 Northbourne Ave	About 800 m walk	The clearest budget room option nearby. Its budget and standard rooms use shared bathrooms. Phone 1800 317 537. (Canberra Accommodation Centre)
Mantra MacArthur, 219 Northbourne Ave	About 1 km walk	Another nearby hotel to compare, especially if you want a private bathroom. (ALL)
Pavilion on Northbourne, 242 Northbourne Ave	About 1.5 km walk	Offers hotel rooms and apartments; its website advertises a direct-booking discount. (Pavilion on Northbourne)
Alivio Tourist Park, O’Connor	Short drive	Sites have power, water and grey-water drainage. Phone (02) 6247 5466. (aliviogroup.com.au)
Discovery Parks – Canberra, Gungahlin	Longer drive	Powered grass, slab and drive-through sites, closer to the Canberra Showgrounds. Phone (02) 6130 1000. (www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au)

Contact us:

asaconference1@gmail.com

The Agricultural Shows Australia National Conference returns in 2027 — proudly hosted in Canberra from 17–19 February, leading into the historic 100th Canberra Royal Show.

As the flagship gathering for the Agricultural Shows movement, this conference unites leaders, volunteers, youth, industry and partners from more than 580 agricultural shows and field days across Australia — from capital city Royals to remote regional communities. It is where shared purpose meets practical action; where tradition meets innovation; and where the future of our movement is shaped together.

Agricultural shows remain one of our nation’s most enduring and unifying institutions. They build agricultural literacy, foster youth leadership, strengthen regional economies, enhance biosecurity awareness, and create inclusive spaces where communities come together to celebrate who they are and what they grow.

Our theme, Stronger together: One movement. One voice. Many communities, reflects our commitment to collaboration, capability-building and securing the sustainability of shows for generations to come.

Over three inspiring days, delegates will engage with national and international speakers, participate in practical and strategic capability development, and connect with peers who share our passion for agriculture, community, and regional futures. For the first time, we will aim to offer online participation — ensuring volunteers, youth and committee members from every corner of Australia can access the full conference experience, no matter where they are.

I learned so much from all of you

"Thank you so much for the opportunity to be part of the conference. The sessions were top notch, from start to finish. I learned so much from all of you. Paul from R.M. Williams was the highlight for me. He made one statement that will stay with me for a long time... "We're at our worst when we try to be all things to all people, and we're at our best when we remember who we are and why we do what we do."

Ray Allison, Chief Development & Strategy Officer, Indiana State Fair, USA

The drive to push forward

"Thank you for providing Dungog Show a bursary to attend ASA Conference. This assisted us to send our President Jeanie Briggs-Seers. The knowledge shared, the networking, the brainstorming was absolutely crucial and has given our committee the drive to push forward, improve and make the connections with our community, neighbouring shows and our members to thrive into the future."

Jeanie Briggs-Seers, President, Dungog Show, NSW

Wonderful transformational experience

"I wish to congratulate you all on a wonderful transformational experience you provided to all the attendees.

Your collaboration and thoughtfulness in the organisation of the ASA Conference 2025, across the weekend was inspirational. Allowing time for networking with so many passionate people from diverse agricultural movements brought about relevant opportunities to tell our story and listen to others."

Maxine Wylie, President, Canning Agricultural, Horticultural & Recreational Society, WA

Truly invaluable

"The impact of this event on young people passionate about the future of Agricultural Shows is truly invaluable. The experience, connections, and knowledge gained from attending are beyond words. The dedicated Next Gen sessions were particularly inspiring, providing the motivation and skills needed to lead with confidence and ensure the longevity of Ag Shows for generations to come. The encouragement and support from the ASA throughout this journey have been instrumental, and I cannot thank them enough for their guidance.

To any young person involved in Ag Shows, don’t hesitate to take advantage of opportunities like this. These bursaries don’t just benefit your local show; they help you grow, develop, and become a stronger leader in the Ag Show movement. I highly recommend seizing these experiences, you won’t regret it!"

Shaun Sandilands, Deputy Chairperson, RNA Future Directions Committee, QLD

Gems of information

"I found the conference to be incredibly informative and brought back several valuable ideas to share with our team.

I was particularly struck by the common issues we all face in organising agriculture-related events, such as managing an aging volunteer base, encouraging community participation, and adapting to the changing digital landscape. Each keynote and panel delivered gems of information that will assist us all in overcoming the challenges and turn them into opportunities."

Craig Debnam, CEO, Lardner Park Field Day, VIC

Plenty of practical ideas

"We flew back to Perth with plenty of practical ideas and made some valuable connections across the sector. I thought Ray Allison was an outstanding keynote speaker setting the tone for the rest of the conference. In particular, the emphasis on education at our Shows was something that started to resonate more strongly with me. In today’s climate with so many competing fairs/fetes/ entertainment and local government events, our ability to stand out as educators in the crucial food/fibre space allows us to carve out a unique niche -our Purple Cow!! I also thoroughly enjoyed Linda Tillman’s presentation on building the event experience and I will definitely be sharing some of her insights with our team."

David Russell, CEO, Canning Agricultural, Horticultural & Recreational Society, WA

Testimonials from 2025 Conference

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

promoting the role and significance of Australian Agricultural Shows to the wider community

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Around Canberra

Five ways to explore while your partner is at the conference

Joining us in Canberra for the Agricultural Shows Australia 2027 Conference? While your partner attends the conference, take the opportunity to discover Australia’s capital at your own pace. From national landmarks and fascinating stories to art, gardens and spectacular views, there’s plenty to fill a morning or afternoon.

1. Step inside Australian Parliament House

Discover the architecture, art and stories behind one of Australia’s most recognisable buildings. Join a guided tour to learn about Parliament and explore the place where national decisions are made. If Parliament is sitting, your visit may also offer an opportunity to watch proceedings.

Suggested time: 1–2 hours
Bookings: Explore the available tours and check individual booking requirements.

Explore tours and book →

2. Reflect at the Australian War Memorial

Take time to discover the personal stories of Australians who have served in war and on operations. Explore the galleries and commemorative spaces, including the Roll of Honour and Hall of Memory, for a moving insight into Australia’s history.

Suggested time: 2–3 hours
Entry: Free; general entry currently does not require a ticket. Check visitor updates before arriving, as redevelopment may affect access to some galleries.

Plan your visit →

3. Discover our stories at the National Museum of Australia

Explore the people, places and events that have shaped Australia through fascinating objects and exhibitions. Set beside Lake Burley Griffin, the Museum offers an inviting way to spend a few hours discovering our shared history, followed by lunch or coffee with a lake view.

Suggested time: 2–3 hours
Entry: Free general admission. Selected exhibitions, tours and experiences have additional charges and booking requirements.

Plan your visit and explore experiences →