Food & Fibre Careers Day 2026 – Another Outstanding Success

The 2026 Food & Fibre Careers Day is over for another year, and what a fantastic celebration of agriculture, innovation, and future career pathways it proved to be.

Held at the picturesque University of Melbourne Dookie Campus on Friday 29 May, the event welcomed more than 500 secondary students from across regional Victoria for a hands-on exploration of the exciting opportunities available within the food and fibre industries.

Students travelled from Wangaratta, Echuca, Shepparton, Mansfield and surrounding regions to participate in what has become Victoria's largest agriculture-focused careers event. Set among the rolling Dookie Hills on one of Australia's most iconic agricultural campuses, first established in 1886, the day brought together the region's rich farming heritage with the technology, innovation and sustainability shaping the future of agriculture.

Throughout the day, students rotated through seven interactive learning hubs, immersing themselves in real-world experiences and engaging directly with industry professionals, educators and emerging technologies. From dairy and livestock production to plant science, genetics, hydroponics, vineyard innovation, drones, AgTech machinery and climate-resilient farming practices, the event showcased the incredible diversity of careers available across the sector.

The event provided young people with valuable insight into industries that are critical to Australia's future economy and regional communities. More importantly, it challenged traditional perceptions of agriculture by highlighting the wide range of career opportunities available in science, technology, engineering, sustainability, animal health, agribusiness and environmental management.

NE Tracks LLEN Chief Executive Officer Tim Oliver said the event continues to grow in importance as young people seek meaningful connections with future-focused industries.

"Food & Fibre Careers Day is about showing students the incredible diversity of careers available across agriculture and food production. Modern agriculture is innovative, technology-driven and full of exciting opportunities that many young people may not have previously considered," Mr Oliver said.

"From science and sustainability to engineering, livestock and emerging technologies, students are gaining firsthand insight into industries that are shaping the future of Australia."

The success of Food & Fibre Careers Day is only possible through the strong collaboration between education providers, industry partners and community organisations committed to developing the future workforce.

A sincere thank you to our Gold Sponsors, NVIT (GOTAFE and Wodonga TAFE) and Nutrien Ag Solutions; Silver Sponsors, Rabo Client Councils and Charles Sturt University; and Bronze Sponsors, SAUSROV, Baker Seed Co., Alltech and AUS Education.

We also acknowledge the invaluable support of the University of Melbourne Dookie Campus, Goulburn Murray LLEN, Campaspe Cohuna LLEN, Shearer Woolhandling Training Inc., and the many industry exhibitors, volunteers and educators who contributed their time, expertise and enthusiasm throughout the day.

Together, these partnerships continue to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders, innovators and skilled professionals.

We look forward to building on the success of this year's event and welcoming another generation of students to discover the exciting world of food and fibre careers in 2027.