Holbrook Landcare Network recently showcased local Holbrook producers through webinar presentations and discussions on triggers for change and the different systems that evolve as a follow up to our Adaptive Farming Systems Forum earlier in the year.
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Brian Burgess of Dalriada, Holbrook talked about the cost of inputs being the trigger to changing his management system from a fairly conservative and traditional approach, to a system which is transitioning towards longer term soil health goals to support production and a 100 per cent groundcover target all year round, a healthy pasture base and livestock quality goals.
Recently we featured the Mathie family of Wybalena where Andrew and Daniel gave a frank account of their management progression over the past 30 years.
With a breeding cow herd of around 2000 females, the strategy in response to the seasonal variation has been to structure the business to finish livestock in containment areas, preserving breeding goals and ensuring at least 70 per cent groundcover is maintained 12 months of the year to protect the longevity of pastures.
Both of these farmers are turning off top-notch animals and trying different short-term pasture mixes for soil health goals.
These days, there's no such thing as a "typical farmer" and there is lots of room for new ideas without having to join a particular farming paradigm.
What is important is that the business model is resilient to economic and environmental stressors which are becoming more common, and fits the landscape, the family and business goals.
These webinars will be available on the HLN website (go to Agriculture) and there will be further workshops and paddock walks, so if you'd like more information on any of these upcoming events, please contact the Holbrook Landcare office or go to the website at www.holbrooklandcare.org.au.
