On the rural fringe of one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities, the future of farming is being reimagined.
That conversation will take centre stage at Farming on the Fringe, a one-day event hosted by Greater Sydney Local Land Services.
Taking place on Friday 15 May 2026, the event will run from 8.30am to 4.30pm at the Ted McCabe Function Centre at Hawkesbury Race Club in Clarendon. The conference-style gathering is designed for anyone working the land on Sydney’s urban edge, from established farmers to smallholders, hobby farmers and lifestyle landholders.
As development pushes further into traditional farming areas, the event will explore how landholders can build resilient, profitable and environmentally sustainable operations. Sessions will examine emerging opportunities in natural capital, carbon farming, soil health and environmental markets, alongside practical strategies for selling local produce directly to consumers.
Regenerative farmer, filmmaker and co-founder of Farmthru Rachel Ward will deliver a keynote address, joined by food systems pioneer Robert Pekin. Guiding the day will be MC Chris Bath, herself a passionate advocate for sustainable farming (and a landowner in the Hunter region).
Alongside expert presentations, attendees will hear directly from local farmers navigating climate pressures, market shifts and the realities of operating at the city’s edge.
You will hear from natural capital experts, including:
- Tamara Harris – Natural Capital Advisor, Local Land Services
- Dr Amanda Hanson – Accounting for Nature
- Clare Edwards – On-Farm Carbon Advice team
- Meghan Burkett – Centre for Community Capital
- Imogen Semmler – Agricola.
A mini trade show will showcase innovations in regenerative agriculture, biodiversity markets and soil health.
Tickets: $50 per person ($75 for two), which includes a gourmet barbecue lunch, as well as morning and afternoon tea.
For farmers, smallholders and land managers across Greater Sydney, Farming on the Fringe offers a rare chance to connect, learn and explore what the next chapter of agriculture might look like… right where city meets countryside.
Book online via Humanitix.