Gatton Smart Farm

Practical, hands-on demonstrations of emerging agricultural technologies are playing an important role in helping Australian vegetable growers make informed decisions about future investments. This was highlighted through the MT24013 Accelerating early access to emerging tech for vegetable growers project, which recently delivered its first regional AgTech Showcase satellite event at VicVID 2026 in Tyabb, Victoria.

The event represented a significant step in extending the successful Gatton AgTech Showcase model beyond Queensland, bringing innovative technologies directly to growers in Victoria. Delivered in partnership with AUSVEG Vic and integrated into the VicVID vegetable field days, the two-day program attracted strong interest from growers, agronomists, researchers, technology providers and other industry stakeholders.

Seven technologies were showcased, spanning advanced spraying systems, laser and mechanical weed control, robotics and drone applications. A highlight was the first Australian demonstration of the Row Ready Laser Weeder, providing growers with a rare opportunity to see the technology operating under local commercial production conditions. The live field environment enabled direct discussions with technology specialists about performance, costs, implementation requirements and potential return on investment.