Farm World 2026 marked an exciting milestone for Food & Fibre Gippsland, as we officially launched three major initiatives that will shape our work and impact over the coming years: our Strategic Plan 2026–29, our new membership offer, and our refreshed Food & Fibre Gippsland brand.

It was a pleasure to celebrate this moment alongside so many friends, partners and stakeholders, and we extend our sincere thanks to the Gippsland’s Shire Councils, One Gippsland, our Board and Board Observers (TAFE Gippsland and Federation University), Members of Parliament and of course our Members and new Members across our Gippsland’s farming and business community who joined us for our launch, and continue to play such a vital role in supporting our work across the region.

We continue to actively represent our members and the wider agriculture sector through participation in a range of high‑level government and industry forums, ensuring regional perspectives are heard where it matters most.

Over recent months, this has included direct engagement with the Premier and relevant Ministers, participation in Agriculture Victoria sessions, and discussions with DAFF focused on understanding and responding to the impacts of the current international fuel crisis on agriculture, supply chains, and regional food systems.

Food & Fibre Gippsland was proud to attend the Wellington Sustainability Festival in Sale recently, joining community groups, businesses and organisations from across the region to celebrate sustainability, innovation and environmental leadership.

On the 4th March, I had the pleasure of attending the AusVeg International Women’s Day Luncheon, celebrating the incredible contributions women make across the horticulture industry - by Amanda Gould.