Unlocking new opportunities in agriculture

AgriTourism Summit, Media Release, 31 July 2025

The second annual AgriTourism Summit is set to take place on August 12–13th 2025, at Banksia Orange. This year’s theme, “AgriTourism Unlocked: Harvesting New Opportunities,” aims to explore the untapped potential of agritourism in Australia, focusing on sustainable strategies and community growth.

The programme has been announced and features agritourism experts, celebrity chefs and politicians presenting insightful sessions and thought-provoking panel sessions.

The full programme can be viewed here: https://agritourismsummit.org/timetable/, but a few highlights are below:

Day 1 Highlights – Tuesday, August 12th

The summit will commence with a welcome address by Senator the Honourable Nita Green, Assistant Minister for Tourism. Attendees will gain insights from industry leaders, including a fireside chat with chef and farmer Matt Moran, discussing the connection between food and place. Panel discussions will feature successful agritourism operators sharing their journeys and lessons learned. Key sessions include:

• “From Paddock to Plate: In Conversation with Matt Moran” – exploring the integration of farming and hospitality.
• “Agritourism Stories in Action: From Coast to Country” – showcasing diverse agritourism ventures.
• “The Global Agritourism Roadmap” – presented by Tim Parsons and Kerry Moss, highlighting international trends and Australia’s position in the global market.
• “Lessons from a Lap around Australia – Agritourism Through a Visitor’s Lens” – led by Jack Plimmer, offering visitor perspectives on agritourism experiences.

The day will conclude with a keynote by Paul Martin of Summer Land Camels, sharing insights on building distinctive agritourism destinations .

Day 2 – Wednesday, August 13th: Familiarisation Tours

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiences through two curated familiarisation tour circuits, showcasing the region’s agritourism offerings.

Circuit A:

• Basalt Luxury Accommodation: Explore architecturally designed studios on a working cherry orchard, offering panoramic views and local dining options.
• Hillside Harvest: Visit a family-run orchard known for its ‘Pick Your Own’ experiences and farm shop featuring local artisan products.
• Ross Hill Wines: Tour Australia’s first certified carbon-neutral winery, renowned for its award-winning cool-climate wines.

Circuit B:

• Borrodell Estate Winery Truffle Experience: Discover one of Australia’s highest vineyards, offering truffle dining experiences and sustainable orchards.
• The Agrestic Grocer: Experience a hub for regional produce, sustainability-focused shopping, and live music.
• Printhie Wines Dining:  Enjoy premium winery experiences, including tastings, vineyard picnics and hatted dining options.

Each circuit departs from the Orange Visitor Centre at 8:15 AM and returns by 1:30 PM. Participants must select their preferred circuit during registration to facilitate transportation arrangements.

Registration Information:

Tickets for the AgriTourism Summit 2025 are now available. Options include:

• Primary Producer Pass – $280 (inclusive of GST): Includes conference access, welcome function and familiarisation tours.
• AgriTourism Explorer Pass – $380 (inclusive of GST): Comprehensive access to all summit activities.
• Under 21 Growth Pass – $150 (inclusive of GST): Designed for young individuals entering the agritourism sector.
• The Cultivator Pass – $290 (inclusive of GST): Conference program access only.

For more information and to register, please visit www.agritourismsummit.org.