We are not getting over this anytime soon – and why would we even want to!
Put yourself on the lush green pastures of Yan Yan Gurt West Farm on Gadubanud land in Deans Marsh for Grounded 2026. The farm was humming with the biggest, and most passionate changemakers speaking about regenerative farming and resilient food systems – and we were there engaging, absorbing, talking and sharing! The festival is fast becoming Australia's most important event addressing the future of food.
Voices like our very own CEO and co-founder, James McLennan, spoke about healthy food systems and regenerative farms in every school, as well as Dr Steve Chen who lead the Recipe4Health initiative and discussed food as medicine in clinics, Clara Coleman spoke about mental wellbeing for farmers, Nicole Masters who is an agroecologist, coach and author spoke about soil health and many other inspirational speakers.
Over two days there were conversations, workshops, tours and demonstrations across multiple stages and around firepits, plus food and wine from local growers and makers.
Organised by food advocate, chef, writer and farmer Matthew Evans, the festival brought together more than 80 speakers from across Australia and overseas and over 800 attendees – progressive thinkers, farmers and growers working at the intersection of regenerative agriculture and resilient food systems.
"I'm obsessed with food! I'm a chef, I'm a farmer but I'm also a food writer and a broadcaster. I've made telly shows and documentaries and the more I learn about the food system the more I worry that it's not fit for purpose," said Evans.
"In terms of us as humanity, in terms of landscape, in terms of community – it certainly does not make us healthier or more resilient. That's why I started Grounded! It's a on-farm festival where we get international and national or local presenters that are experts in the field. They come on-farm for two action-packed days providing not just the inspiration but practical tools to make real change to the food system."
The festival was timely with the fragility of Australia's food system being exposed once again – it's the same cruel lesson and it's time for change!
Central to the conversation is the wisdom of First Nations people – a reminder that caring for Country is not new, but essential.
Grounded invited us to listen, learn and rethink how we grow and share food for generations to come – and walk away with real hope for the future.
Follow @groundedaustralia for news of next year's festival.
