Producers, panels and practical discussions

16 Jul 2026

LambEx returned to Adelaide last week (between 7 – 10 July ), hosting a record number of sheep producers on stage.

With this year’s theme of ‘Telling Our Stories’, the event drew a crowd of around 1400 stakeholders from across the nation. Over the four days, attendees had the opportunity to hear panel and keynote sessions, attend networking events as well as the opportunity to access numerous trade stands within the exhibition hall.

Meat & Livestock Australia’s Sarah Strachan and David Packer both presented to the audience, discussing a range of industry projects and innovations as part of the AMPC Carcase Showcase: Real Producers, Real Results, Real Stories session. Peta Bradley, Genetics Business Development Manager also spoke as of a panel for ‘Genomics: Driving Productivity & Profitability’ – one of three breakfast sessions.

MLA’s Genetics Business Development Manager, Peta Bradley, chats on genetics with Hansi Graetz from Pepperwell Merino

MLA’s Genetics Business Development Manager, Peta Bradley, chats on genetics with Hansi Graetz from Pepperwell Merino.

Sam Burke, MLA Product & Business Development Manager and Corporate Chef, took to the stage for an impressive cooking demonstration with Hardcore Carnivore Founder, Jess Pryles, which featured a homemade flat bread filled with mouth-watering Aussie lamb that was quickly consumed by audience members.

Hardcore Carnivore founder Jess Pryles with MLA’s Product & Business Development Manager and Corporate Chef, Sam Burke

Hardcore Carnivore founder Jess Pryles with MLA’s Product & Business Development Manager and Corporate Chef, Sam Burke.

MLA also had a trade space within the exhibition hall, where those attending could visit and connect with MLA staff members to find out more information about the latest updates in research, adoption and marketing & insights. Among the stand’s visitors were South Australia’s Shadow Minister of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Nicola Centofanti, and Chair of the LambEx Board, Allison Harker.

(From left) MLA’s General Manager – Research and Development and Adoption Sarah Strachan, SA Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Nicola Centofanti, MLA’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Media and Events, Aaron Wakely and LambEx Chair of the Board, Allison Harker

The Lamb Made Easy project – a collaboration between Coles and MLA – was also on show during the event. Lamb Made Easy is a lamb meal range, featuring pre-marinated, slow cooked meals which are designed to be quick, easy and hassle-free for consumers.

MLA’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Nathan Low (right), with Coles Senior Category Manager of Lamb, Jarrad Farmer (left)

MLA’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Nathan Low (right), with Coles Senior Category Manager of Lamb, Jarrad Farmer (left).

As a whole, the event celebrated industry success, while tackling what’s next – sharing science, economics, innovation, and the people that drive the Australian sheep sector forward. Through inspiring producer case studies, practical demonstrations, and bold conversations – LambEx26 showcased the best the industry has to offer.