Bright ideas, fresh perspectives and future‑focused leadership will take centre stage at LambEx26 with the announcement of the Coles Trailblazers semi‑finalists, a competition celebrating the young professionals, producers, scientists and students shaping the future of Australia’s sheep industry.
The Coles Trailblazers program provides a national platform for these emerging industry voices to showcase their ideas, skills and innovation, challenge conventional thinking and demonstrate how they can make a meaningful difference across the sheep industry, now and into the future.
After a highly competitive selection process, the 2026 Coles Trailblazers semi‑finalists are:
- Bianca Agenbag (read more)
- Tara Farms (read more)
- Jamee Daly (read more)
- Rebecca Farnell (read more)
- Angus Langsmith (read more)
- Jordan Norman (read more)
- Emily Steer (read more)
In the lead‑up to LambEx26, Coles Trailblazers will undertake a structured development journey designed to sharpen both their ideas and their delivery. Through guided practice sessions, peer feedback and a dedicated professional speaking and presentation day in Adelaide on 2 June, participants will build confidence, refine their messaging and develop high‑impact communication skills under the guidance of experienced facilitator, Nathan Scott.
The journey culminates at LambEx26, where semi‑finalists will take the stage live on Day 1, Tuesday 7 July, pitching their ideas to a live audience and expert judging panel. From this highly competitive field, three finalists will progress to the main stage on Thursday 9 July to present in front of the full LambEx audience, with winners announced at the Elders Grandslamb Gala Dinner.
We’re pleased to be supported by a strong panel of respected industry leaders who will bring experience, insight and diverse perspectives to judging this year’s Trailblazers. The semi‑final round will be judged by:
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Annabel McBride, Coles
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Rebecca Jennings, Meat and Livestock Australia
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Claire Taylor, Agvocacy Consulting
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Peter McGilchrist, University of New England
Finalists presenting on the main stage will be judged by:
- Gillian Fennell, Livestock SA
- Emily King, Australian Wool Innovation
- Andrew Bouffler, Triggervale Merinos
Finalists will compete for a suite of cash prizes recognising leadership, innovation and emerging talent, including the LambEx Coles Trailblazer Winner ($3,000), the LambEx Coles Trailblazer Junior Achiever Award for participants under 24 ($1,000), and the LambEx Coles Trailblazing Concept Award ($500). Winners will be recognised on the LambEx26 stage as leaders helping to shape what comes next for the sheep industry.
LambEx26 will be held from 7 to 10 July at the Adelaide Convention Centre, bringing together producers, researchers, processors and industry leaders from across Australia and beyond.
Early Bird registrations close on 15 May.
Tickets are available at www.lambex.org.au/tickets
