FROM THE SYDNEY ROYAL EASTER SHOW TO CAPE TOWN: RASC 2026 BUILDS MOMENTUM
From behind-the-scenes farm visits in the Cape Winelands to global conversations on the future of agriculture, RASC 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Commonwealth agriculture gatherings yet.
Hosted by Agri-Expo in partnership with the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth (RASC), the 31st Commonwealth Agriculture Conference takes place in Cape Town from 1–5 November 2026 under the theme: “Opportunities of Change in a Connected World: From South Africa to the World.”
Importantly, the conference is open to everyone with an interest in agriculture, food systems, rural communities, agricultural events and innovation – not only RASC members.
The full conference programme will be released soon, with additional international and South African speakers continuing to join the line-up.
NEWLY ANNOUNCED SPEAKERS
John Bennett OAM | Australia
President of the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales and recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia, John Bennett brings decades of leadership experience linked to one of the world’s most iconic agricultural events – the Sydney Royal Easter Show. He joins the CEO Session focused on the future of agricultural shows, leadership and rural communities.
Christo van der Rheede | South Africa
Executive Director of the FW de Klerk Foundation and former Executive Director of Agri SA, Christo van der Rheede will speak on “Transforming South African Agriculture” during Session 1: Global Agriculture – From South Africa to the World. His work has contributed significantly to national conversations around food security, transformation, land reform and inclusive agricultural growth.
Shannon Robertson | South Africa
At just 26 years old, Shannon Robertson, Assistant Livestock Manager at Boschendal Estate and the 2025 Western Cape Prestige Agri Worker of the Year, represents a new generation of agricultural leadership. She joins Session 5: The Role of Women in the Agricultural Sector, bringing a valuable youth perspective to the global conversation.
Previously announced speakers include:
- Joel Cowley, Chief Executive of the Calgary Stampede, Canada
- Emily Norton, Chair of the Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB), United Kingdom
- Elmarie Prinsloo, Chief Executive of Bloem Show, South Africa
- Ivor Price, award-winning journalist, author and media executive at Food For Mzansi
EXPERIENCE SOUTH AFRICAN AGRICULTURE BEFORE THE CONFERENCE BEGINS
A major highlight of RASC 2026 is the official Pre-Conference Tour from 29 to 31 October 2026, offering delegates an immersive journey through the Western Cape agricultural landscape before the main conference begins.
Based in Stellenbosch, the curated tour combines innovation, heritage, sustainability and regional diversity, giving international and local delegates rare behind-the-scenes access to South African agriculture.
Programme highlights include:
- a future-focused introduction at the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute
- engagement with learners and educators at Boland Agricultural High School
- visits to leading producers and agri-businesses including Boschendal Wine Estate
- insights into multi-generational farming operations across the Swartland and West Coast
- conversations around innovation, entrepreneurship, exports, sustainability and agricultural storytelling
The tour is designed to create meaningful connections and showcase the depth, resilience and diversity of South African agriculture beyond the conference venue.
WHY ATTEND RASC 2026?
- Access to conference sessions, networking events and industry discussions
- International speakers and global networking opportunities
- Exclusive Western Cape pre-conference tour
- Flexible accommodation options around Century City
- Open to all agriculture stakeholders – not only RASC members
- Special registration rates for delegates from South Africa and other African countries
Hosted at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town, the conference places delegates close to hotels, restaurants, wine tourism experiences and major transport routes.
JOIN THE GLOBAL AGRICULTURE CONVERSATION IN CAPE TOWN
As the first RASC conference hosted in Cape Town, the 2026 Commonwealth Agriculture Conference will create a unique platform for African agricultural voices within a global Commonwealth conversation.
Registration, accommodation information and conference updates are available at https://www.rasc2026.com/.
With thanks to the host Agri-Expo, platinum sponsor Hollard, anchor sponsor the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, gold sponsor FNB, media partner Plaas Media and all other valued partners.
