Dennis Donohue and Jeana Cadby from Western Growers joined Wharf42 last week and 2,000 other delegates at evokeAG 2025 in Brisbane, Australia. Photo credit: Wharf42.

This month, Jeana Cadby, Environment and Climate Director at Western Growers, participated on a panel at EvokeAG 2025 in Brisbane, Australia. As Australia’s largest agrifoodtech event, EvokeAG brought together global leaders to discuss cutting-edge agricultural innovations, with biologicals taking center stage. 

During the panel, Jeana discussed Western Growers work on biologicals, emphasizing the importance of grower-led innovation and engagement in driving meaningful progress for novel solutions. 

On stage at the Platform10 Biologicals breakout session with Jeana Cadby (Western Growers), Louise Thatcher (CSIRO) and Adrian Percy (North Carolina Plant Sciences Initiative (N.C. PSI). Photo credit: Wharf42.

Growers must be at the heart of agricultural advancements to develop opportunities for new efficiencies, productivity and climate resilience amid rising pest resistance and emerging disease challenges. 

Biostimulants were identified as a promising tool for increasing crop resilience against extreme weather conditions driven by climate change. However, clearly defining success metrics and ensuring efficacy through quality data remain essential. 

By placing farmers in the center of the conversation, innovations are practical, effective and yield true benefits. Bridging the gap between theory and practice paves the way for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future.