Big Shift For Small Farms

Farming on the Fringe Keynote speaker: Robert Pekin, Food Connect Foundation Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prvkb4YLJFU&list=PLHRKM-_fhj6g

The folks here at Greater Sydney Local Land Services recently hosted a forum called Farming on the Fringe it covers a range of topics, including: what is natural capital on your farm carbon farming and environmental market opportunities what a healthy soil ecosystem looks like The event had over 130 participants and was hosted by journalist and radio host Chris Bath. The episodes are recordings of the speaker presentations.

What if farmers could better understand what's happening beneath their feet? And could that information help them make better decisions when seasons don't go to plan?  In this episode, we explore Farming Forecaster, a free online tool that combines soil moisture, pasture growth and seasonal information to help farmers make more informed management decisions.  We visit Mattana Farm near Milton on the NSW South Coast, where Bec and Adam share how a local soil moisture probe has helped them navigate drought, fire, flooding rains and difficult livestock decisions.  Whether you're a data enthusiast or simply looking for another tool to support decision-making, this episode offers practical insights into using information alongside experience and intuition on farm.      Featured Guests  Bec and Adam – Mattana Farm, Milton NSW  Matt Lieschke – Agricultural Extension Officer, Local Land Services  Phil Graham – Agricultural Consultant    Episode Guide  (00:00) Farming through drought, fires and changing seasons  (06:00) Why soil moisture and temperature matter  (07:30) Using data to make tough stocking decisions  (08:30) How Farming Forecaster helps manage climate variability  (11:30) Exploring the website, probes and pasture forecasts  (16:00) Setting trigger points before conditions deteriorate  (24:30) Back on the farm: confidence, confirmation and practical advice  Useful Links  Farming Forecaster  NSW Local Land Services  The Big Shift for Small Farms is proudly produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services, supported through the Climate Smart Agriculture Program. 

Can technology really help farmers build resilience in an increasingly unpredictable climate — or are we getting distracted by shiny new tools? In this episode, we head to Twynam Farm in NSW to hear directly from farmers trialling agtech including virtual fencing, livestock monitoring and regenerative grazing systems. Featuring conversations with Sarah Nolet and Susan Orgill, we explore how agtech can support climate resilience, soil health and better farm decision-making — while also asking where the risks and limitations lie. We also hear from Camilla Beck and producers attending the Twynam field day, grounding the conversation in practical, on-farm experience rather than industry hype. From virtual fencing and livestock monitoring to broader questions around profitability, labour and resilience, this episode asks: what technology is actually worth adopting on farm — and what problems should agtech really be solving? Featured Talent & Links Sarah Nolet - Managing Partner, Tenacious Ventures Tenacious Ventures Susan Orgill - Chief Scientist, Impact Ag Australia Impact Ag Australia Camilla Beck - Executive Officer, Tablelands Farming Systems Tablelands Farming Systems Johnny Kahlbetzer - CEO, Twynam Group Climate Smart Farming Series - AgTech to manage climate risks and maximise return on infrastructure investment  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0e9xssrvNDOxqNjnkTnokc?si=iJLKN7cPSvKBi5RGXmQxbQ  Episode Guide (00:00) Why agtech promises deserve closer scrutiny (02:45) Productivity versus resilience in modern farming systems (05:20) Farmers explain pressures driving technology adoption (09:15) Optiweigh trials and livestock monitoring in practice (11:45) Virtual fencing and rotational grazing with Halter collars (19:05) Susan Orgill on evidence, soil health and farmer intuition (24:00) Sarah Nolet on solving real problems, not symptoms This episode is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and delivered by South East Local Land Services, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Local Land Services or the Australian Government. 

What if your chickens could do more than just lay eggs? In this episode, we explore how mobile chook sheds can improve soil health, boost pasture growth, and reduce fertiliser costs through better nutrient cycling. Featuring insights from farmers and soil experts, this episode unpacks the nitrogen cycle, pasture recovery, dung beetles, and practical tips for building healthier, more profitable farming systems. Key episode moments [00:02:00] Rising fertiliser costs forced a new approach. [00:04:00] The business started with 50 chooks in a caravan. [00:09:00] Chicken manure improves nitrogen and soil health. [00:10:00] Nitrogen efficiency is low without good management. [00:18:00] Moving sheds regularly helps control manure load. [00:22:00] Dung beetles help spread nutrients naturally. [00:28:00] Changing rainfall affects pasture recovery times. [00:30:00] Start small and build the system slowly. Extra Show Notes Links Clean Coastal Catchments Program nitrogen and dairy pasture video: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq--upG4xXs⁠ NSW DPI fact sheet on chicken manure use in pastures  in the associated links with the podcast: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/140359/Best-practice-guidelines-for-using-poultry-litter-on-pastures.pdf   Sam and Pru Pincott’s pasture-raised egg enterprise holbrookpaddockeggs.com.au Watch a film we made about them youtube.com/watch?v=YqQjQ_IL6mI Virginia Mall’s regenerative mixed farming operation gracespringsfarm.com.au⁠ Dung Beetles Podcast Episode – The Big Shift for Small Farmsopen.spotify.com/episode/2Yi2M7FK0JZtmNulR6vKkr?si=bmWzC9iaSqCOe7FDhbLZtA If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a fellow horse owner, and leave a review — it helps us continue bringing these important conversations to life. Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services. Supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Greater Sydney Local Land Services or the Australian Government.

What if you could add value to your farm without scaling production? In this episode, we explore pick-your-own as a diversification strategy—covering the realities, the opportunities, and what farmers need to know before opening the gate. Key episode moments (00:00) Is pick-your-own actually more profitable than wholesale? (01:30) From city life to farming: buying a rundown blueberry farm with no experience (04:30) COVID pivot: opening the gates and inviting the public in (08:30) Why customers—not strategy—often drive the shift to PYO (14:00) Burnout from farmers markets → “people are paying me to pick my fruit” (15:30) Location matters—but people will travel for the experience (17:30) The reality of customers: education, behaviour & managing expectations (20:00) Does it stack up? Labour savings vs crop loss and margins (29:30) Marketing that works: social media timing + a strong website (41:30) Final advice: start small, ask for help, and know if it suits your personality Read the full transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vvs2_PqBmqMlhXEjoZjc3Ul332DDtBl2/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=103831811474414598304&rtpof=true&sd=true Explore more from our guests below: meliorafarm.com.au cedarcreekorchards.com.au higginscreekfarm.com.au Want more info about our pick your own guide. Click the link below: https://forms.gle/M4uShQbCU954w2JEA If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a fellow horse owner, and leave a review — it helps us continue bringing these important conversations to life. Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services. Supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Greater Sydney Local Land Services or the Australian Government.

The episode urges horse owners to shift from viewing land as turnout to thinking like “grass farmers,” linking soil biology, plant diversity and grazing decisions to horse health. We hear from horse behaviour expert Jane Myers who explains how separating horses and giving constant paddock access drives fence-walking, overgrazing and worn-out land, and she shares a simple yet transformative pasture paddock setup with her Equicentral system. Hoof care professional Faith Robinson redesigned her NSW property with a track and laneways to boost movement, choice, and pasture recovery.  Agroecologist Nicole Masters links soil biology and plant diversity to nutrition, hoof and behavioural issues and urges owners to get curious by digging and reading “weeds” as indicators, and promotes diverse browse and nutrition supplements to reduce reliance on routine chemical worming. Key episode moments (00:00) Grass Farmer Mindset (00:40) Meet the Guests (01:48) Faiths Property Transformation (03:24) From Bored Horses to Choice (06:43) Jane on Behavior and Overgrazing (09:27) Nicole on Pasture Diversity (11:32) Soil Biology Basics (13:13) Weeds as Soil Clues (15:55) Rest and Second Bite Rule (17:13) Stubby Test and Laminitis (18:54) Equicentral System Explained (21:52) Faiths Track and Laneways (21:30) Design for Movement and Browse (28:05) Rethinking Worming (32:57) Manure Management and Dung Beetles (38:38) Resilience in Drought and Flood (43:19) Wrap Up and Resources If this episode sparked new ideas about horse care, grazing, and land stewardship, you can explore more from our guests below: Founder of Equiculture and educator in regenerative horse and land management.Learn more about the Equicentral system and Jane’s courses:Free Equiculture mini-course: equiculture.net/equiculture-free-mini-course Agroecologist and soil educator helping landholders understand what’s happening beneath the surface.Explore Nicole’s Soil Horse Course and other training programs:integritysoils.com/products/soil-horse-course Hoof care professional and horse owner sharing her real-world journey into regenerative horse management.tranquilisland.com.au If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a fellow horse owner, and leave a review — it helps us continue bringing these important conversations to life. Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services. Supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Greater Sydney Local Land Services or the Australian Government.

Depending on the time of day you're reading this, chances are you have a cup of tea, coffee or glass of wine in hand.  And so you are already relying on pollination, and that's what this episode's all about because without healthy pollinators, so many of the foods and beverages we love simply wouldn't exist. In the latest episode of The Big Shift for Small Farms Podcast,  we explore how pollination underpins our food system and why its future matters to us all. We visit Bill Shields’ apple orchard in Bilpin to hear about a mysterious event that has left him with virtually no apples on his trees this season. We'll sit down with Native Bee expert Dr. Tim Heard, who spent his career uncovering the hidden world of Australia's native bee pollinators. And in the wake of the varroa mite, we also hear from someone who's been on the ground with farmers and beekeepers, learning from their experiences supporting their recovery, and helping chart a path forward for resilient pollination into the future. Featured in this episodes: Bill Shields - Apple farmer, Shields Orchard Bilpin (shieldsorchard.com) Dr. Tim Heard - Australian native stingless bee expert (sugarbag.net) Emily Noordyke - Project officer, National Varroa Mite Management Program (varroa.org.au) Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services Greater Sydney

In this episode of The Big Shift for Small Farms podcast, host Edgars Greste explores the complex topic of weeds and ecological management. Joined by agroecologist Kim Deans, they challenge traditional chemical-based weed control and advocate for a more holistic approach that integrates weed management with overall soil health and farm sustainability. Listeners will hear from farmers like Alexia Martinez and Kym Green, who share their experiences balancing weed control with sustainable practices such as composting, cover crops, and natural remedies. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding weeds’ ecological roles, monitoring soil health, and embracing a mindset that sees weeds as part of the natural ecosystem—not merely as pests to be eliminated. Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Kim Deans Alexia Martinez Kym Green For more information:  Reinventing Agriculture (with Kim Deans) - https://www.reinventingagriculture.com.au/kim-deans  Biodynamic Agriculture Australia Ltd - https://biodynamics.net.au/  Kym Green - https://www.facebook.com/Kymgreenlenswood/  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services. Funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust.

In this episode of the Big Shift for Small Farms Podcast, host Edgars Greste chats with dairy farmer Andy Hanna, whose farm is located in the heart of greater Sydney, amidst the growing impact of suburban sprawl. With farming pressures like unpredictable climate conditions and tight financial margins, Andy’s story is a powerful example of adapting and thriving against the odds. Edgars recently had the chance to visit Andy’s farm and was impressed by the work and evolution of his farming practices. Andy’s approach to low-input, ecological farming focusing on rotational grazing, boosting pasture biodiversity, and working with natural nutrient cycles, offers valuable, practical examples of how to make a big shift toward sustainability. This conversation is full of insights on building resilience into farming systems while supporting the environment and the community. Thank you to our guest, Andy Hanna, featured in this episode. For more information:  AG360 Rotational Grazing Planner - https://ag360.com.au/#!/out  Multispecies pastures podcast episode - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/the-big-shift/episodes/Multispecies-Pastures-e2i8dgt Soil Amendments podcast episode (featuring Dairy farmer Gavin Chittick) - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/the-big-shift/episodes/Understanding-Soil-Amendments-to-Boost-Soil-Fertility-e2go7l2  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

In this episode of the Big Shift for Small Farms podcast, we explore the idea of natural capital—the economic and environmental value of nature. Joined by natural capital advisor Madeleine Florin and farmers Ned Long and Rhiannon Phillips, the conversation highlights regenerative land management practices, the advantages of enhancing natural capital, and new market opportunities. The episode includes practical examples and discusses the impacts on farming, communities, and personal well-being, underscoring the link between environmental stewardship and economic resilience. Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Madeleine Florin Ned Long Rhiannon Phillips  For more information:  NSW LLS - Natural Capital: https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/help-and-advice/natural-capital  NSW LLS - Natural Capital Service Finder: Natural Capital service finder - Local Land Services (nsw.gov.au) Mountains Gourmet (Rhiannon’s market garden and services): https://www.mountainsgourmet.com/  Farming for the Future: https://farmingforthefuture.org.au/  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Welcome to an insightful podcast episode uncovering the intricate world of Southeast New South Wales' diverse soils. Come on a journey with Di and Steven in their transition from dairy to beef production by focusing on soil health and the impact of soil quality on farming practices. We’ll hear from Roy Lawrie, a seasoned soil expert, and Andrew Britton, former Small Farms Coordinator for the South Coast region, as they demystify the complexities of soil management. We’ll learn about crucial topics such as the significance of topsoil and subsoil tests, the variability in soil profiles across landscapes, the persistent challenges of weed management, and the presence of acid sulfate soils.  This episode equips you with invaluable tips on soil and weed management, aimed at elevating farmers' ability to enhance land health and embrace regenerative farming practices.  Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Diana Ferguson and Stephen Shipton Roy Lawrie Wayne Brown Andrew Britton For more information:  NSW Soils Knowledge Network - https://www.nswskn.com/  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Ever wondered about regenerative agriculture and the impacts it can have on farmers? Join us as we learn about real life experiences shared by seasoned farmers at the recent Soil Stewardship Summit near Yass, NSW. Over two enlightening days, participants explored the concept of regenerative agriculture, discussing key topics such as tapping into indigenous wisdom, enhancing drought resilience, transitioning from high production to natural methods, and prioritizing soil health for improved yields and healthier societies. The stories embody values of patience, gratitude, and deep respect for nature, offering valuable inspiration for those considering or embarking on the journey towards sustainable farming practices. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that encapsulates the transformative power of regenerative agriculture and a return to natural processes. Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Eli Court (Soils for Life) Paul Girrawah House  Rhonda Daly  Colin Seis  Garry Kadwell David Marsh  For more information:  Previous Big Shift episode on regenerative farmers - tiny.cc/bigshiftregen Soils for Life  - https://soilsforlife.org.au  Paul Girrawah House - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-house-57055860/?originalSubdomain=au Produced by growloveproject.com and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Biology drives nearly all processes in our soil. From structure and water infiltration, to nutrient cycling and disease suppression. Until  recently the biological function of soil has largely been overlooked in favor of soil physics and chemistry. So to find out more about the beauty of bugs we spoke with soil microbiologist, Kelvin Montagu Episode created by growloveproject.com

Curious about the buzz surrounding multi-species pastures and its game-changing role in regenerative agriculture? Join us to hear expert insights from Sarah Fea, an experienced agroecologist, who explores the diversity of advantages that multi-species brings to the table. We look into the significance of improving soil health, biodiversity, efficiency of resources, pest control, and creation of resilient landscapes. Gain valuable insights from on-field farmers as they share their journeys experimenting with multi-species pastures, revealing the substantial benefits they've reaped through the transition to diverse pastures. Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Sarah Fea Adam and Jody Turner Greg Mumm For more information:  https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/help-and-advice/growing,-grazing-and-land/pastures https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLcyeCkF2a4 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soils-for-life/episodes/From-monoculture-to-multispecies-cropping-Making-diversity-work-e252tlg/a-a9ueu1s https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/north-west/key-projects/natural-resource-management-case-studies/award-winning-north-west-landholders  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

This episode explores the importance of soil and soil management for agriculture and the environment, focusing on the soils of the Sydney region. Experts from the New South Wales Soil Knowledge Network share their expertise on topics such as geology, soil formation, soil types, erosion, and assessing soil health. The conversation highlights the role of organic matter, irrigation, and soil samples in managing different soil types. Listeners will gain a better understanding of the value of soil and practical tips for improving soil health. Let's make the world greener and healthier, one soil particle at a time! Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Greg Chapman Tony Voller Madeleine Florin Cathy Sherry For more information:  NSW Soils Knowledge Network  eSPADE National Library of Australia (Trove)  Six Maps Sustainable Vegetable Farming - Episode 3 - Soil health fundamentals - YouTube Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

In this episode, get ready to dig into the quirky world of dung beetles and discover how these little champions are like the superheroes of soil health on farms! Join us and our guests as we chat about the fantastic benefits dung beetles bring to Australian farmers – from reducing water runoff to boosting pasture growth and improving soil in grazing systems, to keeping pests in check, and even mastering the art of carbon sequestration. These remarkable critters prove that sometimes, in the smallest packages, you find the mightiest heroes for our planet's well-being. Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Russ Barrow Ed Hogan Keri Chittenden Michael McDonald For more information:  Dung Beetle Ecosystem Engineers  Dung Beetles - Local Land Services (nsw.gov.au) Join the Greater Sydney dung beetle network to learn more alongside like-minded farmers and land managers Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

In this episode, we explore soil amendments and their role in enhancing soil fertility.  Accompanied by farmers from Kangaroo Valley, we delve into their strategic use of compost and diverse amendments to enhance soil health.  Former Senior Agricultural Advisor Ed Hogan presents a comprehensive soil biology demonstration, offering invaluable insights for the farming community - recognising the significance of tailoring agricultural approaches to meet the distinctive needs of each soil and steering clear of a generic 'one-size-fits-all' methodology. Tune in to discover which amendments could potentially elevate the soil fertility on your farm. Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Brad Hawthorne Gavin Chittick Edmund Hogan For more information:  Southeast local land services Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Riparian Zones play an integral role in the Australian landscape - from cultural heritage to agriculture, recreation, and providing habitat for aquatic and terrestrial animals. These areas are crucial for filtering water, preventing erosion, and supporting the overall productivity of the surrounding landscape. They also provide grazing, shelter, and access to water for livestock. Development and agriculture can pose a potential threat to riparian zones. Clearing, overuse, and uncontrolled stock access are some activities that can lead to erosion, habitat loss, and reduced water quality. But there are ways to look after this unique landscape. In this episode, we join three individuals who give us tips on restoring riparian land on your property. As we journey along the creek, we may glimpse one of Australia’s most shy and unique creatures. Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Alexia Martinez - farmer Michelle Ryan - Senior Lecturer in ecology and environmental Science at Western Sydney University Lori Gould - Program Manager of the Australian River Restoration Centre For more information or to get involved: PlatypusSPOT app Australian Platypus Conservancy  Australian River Restoration Centre  Cattai Hills Environment Network (CHEN)  Hosted by Edgars Greste  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Many landholders have been promoting biodiversity and wildlife conservation on their property for many years. Not only is this beneficial for the environment, but through conservation agreements, landholders benefit financially from protecting their patches. Landholders can be involved in a variety of different programs and conservation agreements. One of the main aspects is landholders need to have native vegetation in good condition on their land. In terms of size, smaller farms can collaborate to create larger parcels that may be eligible for financial compensation.  In this episode, we’ll hear from private landowners who have been managing biodiversity and promoting wildlife conservation on their land for years - and they have benefited from it in many ways.  Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Bev Debrincat - Chair of Greater Sydney Landcare, landholder Xuela Sledge - Koala Project Officer with Greater Sydney Landcare Matt Carr - acting director of the Biodiversity Conservation Trust Jocelyn Howden - founder of the Glenorie Wildlife Refuge For more information or to get involved: Landholder guide to conservation agreements Biodiversity Conservation Trust Land for Wildlife  Hosted by Edgars Greste  Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services