[PRESS RELEASE] AI, leadership, and the guest experience: must-see sessions at the Agriculture Shows Australia 2025 Conference

Renowned industry professionals Heather Ellis, Linda Tillman, and Shaun Leisegang will share their expertise and insight on day one of the national gathering of Australia's 582 agricultural shows. 

In 'AI for the Show Movement: Simplifying Operations for Better Focus', Shaun Leisegang, General Manager at award-winning technology services provider, Tecala, will show attendees how artificial intelligence can streamline key tasks in the show movement. 

"In this session, we'll use a case study show to break down what AI is and isn't, and provide simple, practical steps to automate repetitive tasks," Shaun said.

"You'll learn how AI tools can help with everything from administrative processes to managing logistics, so your team can dedicate more energy to enhancing the show experience for everyone involved."

Two breakout sessions also feature on the program. 'Unlocking the Leader Within Everyone' is designed for emerging leaders, while the session on 'Creating Unforgettable Show Experiences 'will serve up invaluable 'aha' moments for show executives on customer experience. 

Heather Ellis, Founder and Director of BlueWren Connections, and community leader, social worker and changemaker, will facilitate the leadership session for emerging leaders, drawing upon real-word examples and practical exercises. 

"We'll explore the core principles of leadership, revealing how anyone can develop and harness their

unique leadership abilities. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting, this session will empower you to unlock the leader within," Heather said.

Linda Tillman, co-founder of the Australian Centre for Regional Events, will draw upon her experience in over 100 regional events' development and delivery to help attendees understand what works when it comes to delivering a positive show experience for guests - and what doesn't. 

Linda is the recipient of the Regional Development Australia Northern Inland NSW Innovation Award, the Local Economic Contribution Award for Visit Deni Destination Appeal Campaign and a Gold NSW Regional Tourism Award for destination marketing.

The Agricultural Shows Australia 2025 Conference is hosted by ASA and the ASA Emerging Leaders Committee. It is a pinnacle event for the broader agricultural shows community. 

Registration for the ASA Conference 2025 is via the ASA website. The conference is run from Thursday 13 February through to Sunday 16 February 2025. 

Gallagher is the proud platinum sponsor of the third ASA National Conference. Other sponsors include Localtix; The Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania; AgShows NSW; Australian Show Ribbons; Showorks; and Showday Online.

The major celebration is the "The Royals" Gala Dinner sponsored by The Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland, The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW, The Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society of SA, The Royal National Capital Agricultural Society, and The Royal Agricultural Society of Western Australia. [END]