Big Shift For Small Farms - Australian Agriculture and Regenerative Farming

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 ResourcesIf 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-courseAgroecologist 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-courseHoof care professional and horse owner sharing her real-world journey into regenerative horse management.tranquilisland.com.auIf 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.

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=auProduced 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 favour of soil physics and chemistry. So to find out more about the beauty of bugs we spoke with soil microbiologist, Kelvin MontaguThank you to our guest featured in this episode: Kelvin MontaguFor more information:  Colo ConsultingProduced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

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 MummFor 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 SherryFor more information:  NSW Soils Knowledge Network  eSPADE National Library of Australia (Trove)  Six Maps Sustainable Vegetable Farming - Episode 3 - Soil health fundamentals - YouTubeProduced 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 McDonaldFor 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 managersProduced 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 HoganFor more information:  Southeast local land servicesProduced 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 CentreFor more information or to get involved:PlatypusSPOT appAustralian 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 RefugeFor more information or to get involved:Landholder guide to conservation agreementsBiodiversity Conservation TrustLand for Wildlife Hosted by Edgars Greste Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Citizen Science has been around for a long time. It has allowed vast amounts of data to be collected and analysed within a relatively short period by getting members of the public to participate in scientific research. This research is invaluable as it helps to inform natural resource management, increase environmental protection and inform policy and decision making.  It also benefits individuals as they can engage in research and provide public input. There are numerous citizen science opportunities for landholders to get involved in, whether it be about frogs, tree hollows, scats, or even ferals - there is something for everyone.Join us as we speak with three motivated individuals working in this space across diverse topics and landscapes, from water to earth to sky.Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Lilly Schwartz - founder of the Hills Hornsby Rural Koala Project Jessica Lumbroso - Land Care Coordinator and Streamwatch Coordinator for the Greater Sydney Land Care Ben Humphries - Coordinator of the Southern NSW Birds on Farms ProjectFor more information or to get involved:Hills Hornsby Rural Koala Project  StreamwatchBirds on Farms Project  Australian Citizen Science Association (in partnership with Atlas of Living Australia)Hosted by Edgars Greste and Katie MeyerProduced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Wildlife corridors are essential for the survival of animals. They also provide additional benefits for both the environment and agricultural productivity.Unfortunately, habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation create immense challenges for animals as they struggle to reach food, water and shelter. But there are many things that landholders can do to improve habitat connectivity and increase wildlife conservation efforts. By planting more trees and creating corridors for animals, landholders contribute to landscape resilience and benefit in many ways by preventing soil erosion, improving crop pollination and providing shelter for stock.Join us in this episode as we journey through three different landscapes and learn about initiatives protecting and restoring our landscapes and natural systems, improving habitat connectivity and benefiting landholders.Thank you to our guests featured in this episode: Angie Fricker - Senior Land Services Officer with Greater Sydney LLS Garry Watterson - Landholder Gary Howling - Chief Executive Officer of the Great Eastern Ranges  Paul Madden  - Project Officer with Community Environment NetworkFor more information or to get involved: Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare NetworkThe Great Eastern RangesCommunity Environment Network (CEN)Hosted by Edgars Greste and Katie MeyerProduced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

The ⁠#ClimateSmart series explores the diverse impacts of ⁠#ClimateChange⁠ on the landscape and farmers' own experiences in practically adapting their land, systems and businesses. In this episode, we're looking at farmers who have used landscape modification including diversion banks, ponding, swales and leaky weirs to slow and store water flows during rainfall events. Along with restoring ground cover this has significantly reduce erosion and restored landscape function. Thank you to the farmers, you can watch and read their stories here: Scott Preisig and Belinda Scott, Merrylands Station, Kerrigundi, NSW dpi.nsw.gov.au/stories/blake-preisig Glenn Morris, Billabong Farm, Inverell, NSW dpi.nsw.gov.au/stories/g-morris Martin Royds, Jillamatong Farm, Braidwood, NSW dpi.nsw.gov.au/stories/m-royds Watch all the Climate Smart films: dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/climate/digital-agriculture/farmer-stories Your hosts Edgars Greste @growloveproject and Matt Pierce @NSWDPI Producers Edgars Greste, Susannah Kable and Katie Meyer Produced by @growloveproject for @NSWDPI and hosted by NSW Local Land Services #Bigshiftforsmallpodcast *NSW DPI understands that successful adaptations will vary between locations, industries and business.

The ⁠#ClimateSmart series explores the diverse impacts of ⁠#ClimateChange⁠ on the landscape and farmers' own experiences in practically adapting their land, systems and businesses. In this episode, we're looking at farmers who have adopted digital technology that have allowed them to improve their productivity, achieve efficiencies, respond to the climate risk, and adapt their enterprises.  Thank you to the farmers, you can watch and read their stories here: Vito Mancini blood orange farm, Redbelly Citrus, Griffith NSW https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/stories/v-mancini Ewan and Kevin McAsh, Oyster Life Management on the Clyde River near Batemans Bay NSW https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/stories/ke-mcash Ian and Pru Pearce, Stoneleigh Orchard near Orange NSW https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/stories/ip-pearce Watch all the Climate Smart films: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/climate/digital-agriculture/farmer-stories Your hosts Edgars Greste @growloveproject and Matt Pierce @NSWDPI Producers Edgars Greste, Susannah Kable and Katie Meyer Produced by @growloveproject for @NSWDPI and hosted by NSW Local Land Services #Bigshiftforsmallpodcast *NSW DPI understands that successful adaptations will vary between locations, industries and business.

You know that phrase if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail. Now, depending on which Wikipedia entry you read, either Winston Churchill, Benjamin Franklin or Aristotle or a bunch of other people said it. But the point is, planning is a good thing to do. It helps you identify and reach your goals, realise your vision for your property, and what lifestyle you want to leave. We've actually produced a few episodes on the topic. One on farm planning principles and planning for emergencies, which looks at flood and bushfire preparedness. But in this episode we're taking a look at a farm planning package of tools that Greater Sydney Local Land Services has produced for landowners and managers. It includes a workbook, self-assessment quiz and  mapping tool to make this process easier. We'll hear from some new farmers who've trialed the tools to help them get their ideas out of their head and onto some paper or in the computer, and also help them think about stuff that wasn't even on their radar.  But first we’re going to get some farm planning fundamentals from coach Kim Deans. Let's get planning. The workbook and self assessment resources are available to download on the LLS website  https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/greater-sydney/key-projects/small-farms-network/property-planning-resources Thank you to all our guests: Richard Stephens and Madeleine Florin from Greater Sydney Local Land Services  Kim Deans https://www.reinventingagriculture.com.au/kim-deans Kirrily Smith, Farmer David Adderton, Farmer

#Agricultural production relies on natural ecosystems, but, the more we modify our landscapes, the less resilient they become, resulting in reduced production. Balancing the needs of both is crucial to meet the demands of increasing yields without further compromising the environment. So how do we do this? Well, the good news is that #farming methods that work with nature can achieve great production outcomes and incentives for landscape restoration are available. So in this episode we’ll talk to some passionate producers, ecologists and number crunchers about our environment’s true value and how land managers can be rewarded for working with nature. With thanks to:  Anika Molesworth https://www.anikamolesworth.com/ Nicole Masters https://www.integritysoils.co.nz/ David Carr http://stringybarkecological.com.au/ Adrian Ward https://www.accountingfornature.org/ Rowan Foley  https://www.abcfoundation.org.au/ Produced by the Grow Love Project in collaboration with NSW Local Land Services

Most of us know that increasing carbon in the soil has many benefits and with interest in carbon farming growing, our latest episode of The Big Shift Podcast explores how to increase carbon in the soil and the opportunities available for farmers. First up in this episode we explore the science of soil carbon with Dr Susan Orgill followed by a chat with Dr Lorraine Gordon about her journey into carbon farming and how it could be the crop of the future. Susan Orgill, Leader Soils R&D South at NSW Department of Primary https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/about-us/research-development/staff/staff-profiles/susan-orgill Cameron Smith, Farm Manager Kate Carmichael, Soilkee https://soilkee.com.au/ Lorraine Gordon https://www.scu.edu.au/regenerativeag/about/team/

For most people, weeds are a dirty word. They’re often talked about as an undesirable plant in the wrong place. And whilst it's true that some species left unmanaged can cause ecological problems, what if weeds are actually trying to tell us something. Something about that place where they’ve shown up that we don’t know about yet. So in this episode we hear from weed whisperers and what they’re saying is don’t blame the messenger because the messenger might actually be part of the solution. Thank you to all those who shared their knowledge with all of us: Nicole Masters https://www.integritysoils.co.nz/ Hamish MacKay  https://biodynamics2024.com.au/workshops/ James Barnet RCS https://www.rcsaustralia.com.au/ Clare Edwards https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/central-tablelands The Greater Sydney Regional Weed Management Plan https://tinyurl.com/yffmjv8d Plant Net https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/ Please listen, rate and share this episode. Thank you. This podcast has been produced by the Grow Love Project with support from Greater Sydney Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government's National Landcare Program. We acknowledge the First People of this land and recognise their connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.

We have dramatically changed the landscape by digging dams, introducing feral animals and clearing native habitat. These actions have created the perfect environment for certain species to thrive including mice, foxes and rabbits, which come with a range of challenges for farmers. So in this episode we’re going to hear about some of the ways we can control these pests and move closer to nature. Please listen, rate and share the episode.  With thanks to the following people for sharing their knowledge in this episode: Brian Wehlburg https://www.insideoutsidemgt.com.au David Brook  https://wildbnb.com.au Lee Parker  https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/south-east/key-projects/every-bit-counts/resources/pest-animals Emma Sawyers https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity Peter West https://www.feralscan.org.au Credits This podcast has been produced by the Grow Love Project with support from Greater Sydney Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government's National Landcare Program. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.

Small scale farmers are faced with a lot of pressures, from climate change on farm to competition in the marketplace. In this episode we’re hearing from farmers and producers about Australian made emerging opportunities, from climate tolerant native bush foods to economically sustainable bespoke dairy products. Not only can they help farm business but also the broader community and our planet. Guests featured in this episode include: Cressida Cains, Dairy Cocoon https://www.pecoradairy.com.au/ Chris Andrew, Black Duck Foods https://blackduckfoods.org/ Josh Gilbert, Indigenous agriculturalist http://www.gilbertjoshuam.com/ Tim Wimbourne, Braidwood Food Company https://www.braidwoodfood.com/ Credits This podcast has been produced by the Grow Love Project with support from Greater Sydney Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government's National Landcare Program. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.

Many of our listeners in NSW have been heavily impacted by recent flooding at the end of March this year. In the Hawkesbury-Nepean river region of Western Sydney, it caught many by surprise peaking at a staggering 12.9 metres, with water engulfing properties and homes. So in this episode we’re bringing you a special recording at a field day on flood recovery hosted by Greater Sydney Local Land Services at their demonstration farm in April. Our producer Olivia Ralph was there to capture some insights from the event. Thanks to Alana, Amy and Tom for sharing their stories. Others featured in this episode: Adam Little, Senior agronomist and livestock specialist - Ace Ohlsson Elders Neil Griffiths, Agronomist and pasture specialist - Hunter Local Land Services Richard Stephens, Regional Agriculture Landcare Facilitator - Greater Sydney Local Land Services Stock that has been in floodwater should be monitored closely to ensure they are eating and watched for signs of disease. Download a copy of our guide to assist landholders to care for livestock in flood https://bit.ly/39dHVc2 Please contact your local LLS veterinarian on 1300 795 299 for further advice, or if you notice any signs of disease or illness. Credits This podcast has been produced by the Grow Love Project with support from Greater Sydney Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government's National Landcare Program. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.