UK Farmers to Gain Insights from First-Ever Canadian Panel at Dairy-Tech

For the first time, Dairy-Tech, taking place on 4 February and organised by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) with support from Principal Sponsor Barclays, will welcome a Canadian delegation of experts, offering UK farmers a unique insight into cutting-edge livestock innovation.

The delegation forms part of the Twin Pastures: UK–Canada Livestock Innovation Exchange, a collaborative initiative focused on artificial intelligence, biosensing, automation and real-time diagnostics in dairy and livestock systems.

The event’s Innovation Hub, sponsored by Lely, will host the Canadian panel, creating a rare opportunity for farmers to explore how the latest technologies emerging from Canada can
improve productivity, animal welfare and sustainability on farm.

The Canadian delegation includes:

• Dr Patience Palmer, Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network, who will address AI and automation in agriculture

• Professor Suresh Raja Neethirajan, Dalhousie University, whose research focuses on translating artificial intelligence, sensing and digital twin technologies into practical tools for dairy farming

• Ester DeGroot, Director of Operations at CATTLEytics Inc, a company helping livestock farmers make informed, data-driven decisions

The session will be chaired by Dr Bethan John of the UK Agri-Tech Centre. Together, the speakers will share insights into AI, smart sensors, digital twin technology and automation, highlighting practical solutions already shaping Canadian dairy and livestock systems.

Robert Craig, Chair of RABDF, said: “This is a unique opportunity for UK farmers to hear directly from Canadian experts who are developing some of the most advanced tools in livestock production. It’s exciting to be able to offer a truly international perspective, showcasing how innovation is driving dairy farming forward worldwide.”

Alongside the international speakers, the Innovation Hub will feature UK experts covering herd health, nutrition and management, including real-time pathogen detection, advanced sensor and bolus technology, and innovative feeding solutions. Attendees can also watch the live Wilson & Ashley Podcast, interviews with leading innovators, and the announcement of the RABDF Royal Dairy Innovation Award 2026.

About RABDF 
RABDF is the sole UK charity dedicated to the needs of dairy farmers. Established in 1876, it is the only dairy organisation to hold a Royal Patronage. RABDF is the organiser of the Dairy Tech event.