The #BurgoigeeCreekLandcareGroup hosted its third Next Generation Farmers workshop at Murmungee at the end of May, bringing together 36 local producers from across the Ovens Catchment.
This dedicated group represents the next generation of farming—spanning those working within multi-generational family businesses, those establishing their own enterprises, and those delivering services supporting the agricultural sector.
The focus of this workshop was soil health, with participants taking part in a farm walk at Paul Neary’s property. The session included:
- Inspecting recently sown paddocks and irrigation areas
- Exploring a soil pit to better understand local soil characteristics
- Practical workshop at the Bowmans-Murmungee Memorial Hall on interpreting soil test results, with Dr Cassie Schafe, a soil scientist from Rutherglen-based business #AgriSci.
Key takeaways included:
- Ensuring soil pH and phosphorus levels are adequate for plant growth before looking at nitrogen-fertilisers
- The benefits of incorporating lime to 10-15cm with a speed disc to improve soil pH at depth when re-sowing pastures
- Understanding subsoil constraints – particularly avoiding deep ripping in sodic subsoil to prevent slaking and soil structure collapse
The Next Generation Farmers group meets 4-5 times a year to share experiences and build skills in soils, animal health and management.
Family-friendly events, including activities for children, help ensure everyone can take part.
Interested in joining? Contact Libby on libby@evertonfarmsupplies.com.au.
This project is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the #NaturalHeritageTrust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.
#SustainableAgriculture #climate #AgClimate #australianagriculture Mid Ovens Landcare Consortium Inc