At Hollow Trees, we embrace opportunities to learn, grow, and adapt in the ever-changing world of agriculture. Our Farm Manager, Will Pratt, attended the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC25) for the first time last week. His attendance as a scholar was part of his prize as winner of the 2024 Suffolk Agricultural Association “Rising Star” Award.
Held from 8-10 January 2025, the conference brought together thought leaders, innovators, and farmers under the theme: ‘Facing Change, Finding Opportunity.’ The event featured over 150 in-person sessions and 45 livestreamed discussions, with speakers from the UK and around the globe.
Key highlights
Will described the event as an insightful experience, with some personal highlights including:
- Vital insights from Craig Lewis (who he’d met on a 7am run in freezing conditions the previous morning!) on PPRS (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome) in pigs, showcasing his deep knowledge and unwavering dedication to the field
- A focus on a future of greener fuels in machinery from Tim Burnhope of JCB, pointing the way toward sustainability in agricultural innovation.
- Inspirational speaker, Olly Hicks left the audience captivated with his tales of rowing from America to England. His message of mental resilience drew strong parallels to the determination needed in modern farming.
Will had the invaluable opportunity to ask a question during the Secretary of State’s address, raising concerns about inheritance tax, National Insurance increases, and subsidy cuts—issues that weigh heavily on small farms and businesses.
Another one of the most memorable sessions at the event was the debate at the Oxford Union Hall, an iconic setting where the motion, ‘This house believes that UK agriculture needs more grazing livestock, rather than fewer,’ sparked lively discussion.
The diversity of opinions and perspectives showcased how innovation and tradition can coexist to drive sustainable farming forward.
Adopting change and opportunities
Will noted how collaboration was important and how he took the opportunity to discuss shared challenges and opportunities with fellow scholars and industry professionals, inspiring him to bring these insights back to the team to explore new approaches at Hollow Trees, including:
- Embracing technology
- Adapting to policy changes
- Building resilience
As we reflect on the conference, we remain committed to facing change head-on and finding opportunities to ensure the future of farming is bright, sustainable, and prosperous for Hollow Trees and the wider farming community.
Image credit – Will Pratt