Big Shift For Small Farms

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.

In this episode we’re talking about emergency management. We’ll hear from field officers and researchers about the importance of making plans and keeping yourself in check. We will then chat to a farmer who’s using animals as a tool to reduce his fire risk. So let’s get planning.  Thank you to all our guests who featured in this episode: Kirsty and Andrew Hambrook, Terrewah Farm - terrewahfarm.com.au Linda Hanlon, Senior Land Services Officer, Local Land Services Pet Passport - ses.nsw.gov.au/media/3665/greater-sydney-local-land-services_20pp-a5-booklet_kids-passport_generic.pdf Mel Taylor, Associate Professor, Macquarie University Blue Arc - Blue Mountains Animal Ready Community - facebook.com/groups/1045349658940538 Aaron Brocken, Harvest Farms - facebook.com/HarvestFarmsBilpin

Now according to The Economist Newspaper, the world’s most valuable resource is no longer oil, but data. And what makes it valuable is what we do with it.  In this episode we’ll get some tips from farming consultants about how to use data to improve your management both in the paddock and on your balance sheet. And we’ll find out why owning a bird book is a sign that business is going well. Guests featured in this episode include: Mark Gardner, Business consultant - Vanguard Business Services - vbs.net.au Sarah Nolet, CEO - farmers2founders.com Graham Hand, Farm consultant and educator - handfortheland.com Greg Sharp, Managing Partner - Barrington Accounting - barringtonata.com.au Episode produced by growloveproject.com

More and more consumers want to buy why you farm as much as what you produce. In this episode we’re looking at the power of your story. We’ll talk to farmers about their journey from small business to becoming a brand and we’ll hear about a platform that’s been built to help farmers not only sell their products but promote their farming practices. Guests featured in this episode include: Lisa Papallo, Marketing expert and founder of fairfoodie.com.au Angus Maurice, Farmer - farmerbrownspasturedeggs.com.au Erica and Hayden Watson - Farmers, Epicurian Harvest Luke Winder, Farmer - tathraplacefreerange.com Episode produced by growloveproject.com

In Australia we grow a lot of introduced livestock species like cows, pigs, sheep and chooks. So in this episode we’re looking at how to care for your livestock mindfully. We’ll hear from a grazing management consultant about why looking after your landscape could save you big bucks and improve not only your livestock’s health but your own wellbeing too. In this episode we hear from: Anika Molesworth - Agroecology scientist and farmer - anikamolesworth.com Charlie Arnott - Farmer - charliearnott.com.au James Barnet - Grazing management consultant - rcsaustralia.com.au Joe Kovacek - Farm manager - westernsydney.edu.au/environmental_sustainability/home/hawkesbury_farm Cressida Cains - Farmer - pecoradairy.com.au Episode produced by Grow Love Project

We all know the dangers of having all your eggs in one basket. The good news is that there are plenty of creative ways to stack enterprises to build resilience in your business. In this episode we’ll learn about value adding, collaboration and diversification. In this episode we hear from: Mark Gardner - Vanguard Business Services (vbs.net.au) Luke Winder, Tathra Place Free Range Farm (tathraplacefreerange.com) Kirsty and Andrew Hambrook - Terrewah Farm (terrewahfarm.com.au) Jamie Christie, Canoelands Orchard (canoelandsorchard.com) Produced by growloveproject.com on behalf of Greater Sydney Local Land Services

We often think of a plan as a list of things to do, but the farmers and consultants in this episode say it's about outlining your principles and developing a clear vision. In this episode the farmers encourage us to slow down, take a step back and learn from the landscape. In this episode we hear from: James Barnet - Grazing Management Consultant, RCS (rcsaustralia.com.au) David Carr - Agroecologist, Stringybark Ecological (stringybarkecological.com.au) Kirsty and Andrew Hambrook - Terrewah Farm (terrewahfarm.com.au) Chris Andrew - General Manager, Black Duck Foods (blackduckfoods.org) Josh Gilbert - Indigenous agriculturalist (gilbertjoshuam.com) Produced by growloveproject.com on behalf of Greater Sydney Local Land Services

Why do you farm the way you do? In this episode we’ll hear from farmers who, through personal illness and tragedy have been forced to reimagine their farming values and practices. And we’ll hear who’s leading the way in holistic land management all to help you make the big shift. In this episode we hear from Brian Wehlburg, farmer/educator - https://www.insideoutsidemgt.com.au/ Virginia Mall, farmer - https://www.gracespringsfarm.net/ Martin Royds - https://www.jillamatong.com.au/martin-royds.html Colin Seis, farmer - https://www.facebook.com/ColinSeis/ Murray Prior, farmer - https://www.nguurruu.com/ Other links to things covered in this episode Local Land Services field day events - https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/events Field of Farmers by Joel Salatin, Polyface Farm - http://www.polyfacefarms.com/product/fields-of-farmers/ Alan Savory Ted Talk - http://tiny.cc/savorytedtalk 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.

There’s a growing trend amongst consumers to know how their food is produced. Certification offers some assurity to customers and a point of difference for producers. But is it certification effective? We’ll chat with farmers who are certified and let you in on a secret that can be even more powerful than a certified label. In this episode we hear from Christina Kelman, farmer - https://ritas-farm-produce.myshopify.com/ Tobias Bland, farmer - https://www.instagram.com/kurrawongorganics Professor Rachel Ankeny - https://twitter.com/ankeny_rachel Brian Wehlburg, farmer - https://landtomarket.com.au/ Phil Taylor, manager - https://thebeachesmarket.com/ Greg newell, farmer - https://www.buymeat.com.au/ Shannon Kelly, Full Circle Farm - https://fullcirclefarm.com.au/ Other links to things covered in this episode https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Economics/Food_Cert_Schemes/~/media/Committees/economics_ctte/Food_Cert_Schemes/c02.pdf Food Values Group - https://arts.adelaide.edu.au/humanities/food-values/ 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.

Farm resilience in a changing climate is all about understanding the function of our natural landscapes. With longer and hotter droughts and more intensified rain events we need to rethink our current farming practices. So today, we’re going on a journey from the classroom to the paddock to help make your farm a resilient one. Thank you to those who gave their time to be part of this episode: David Marsh, farmer - http://www.arlash.com/tag/david-marsh/ Walter Jehne, soil microbiologist - https://www.healthysoils.com.au/ Christina Kelman, farmer - https://ritas-farm-produce.myshopify.com/ Peter Hazell - The Mulloon Institute - https://themullooninstitute.org/our-team Martin Royds - https://www.jillamatong.com.au/martin-royds.html Matthew - Jillamatong farm manager 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.

For farmers, compost is like black gold because its really valuable for efficient high quality food production, but just like gold it can be pretty expensive and hard to source. In this episode, we’ll talk to those who produce it, those who study it and those who use it to help you get the best out of your compost. In this episode we hear from Lizzie Buscaino - https://www.piccolofarm.com.au/ Eric Love, Centre For Organic Research and Education - https://core.asn.au/ Simone Dilkara - www.landtasiacompost.com Olivier Sofo - https://livingearthfarm.com.au/ Manu Prigioni, Farm It Forward - https://www.farmitforward.com.au/ Martin Royds - https://www.jillamatong.com.au/martin-royds.html Other links to things covered in this episode https://www.aora.org.au/sites/default/files/uploaded-content/website-content/aora_capability_statement_web.pdf https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/-/media/epa/corporate-site/resources/warrlocal/150211-garbage-bag-audit.pdf 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.

Community supported agriculture originates back to the 1960s and is a relatively new concept in Australia. At a time when more and more consumers are looking to connect to the source of their food, the CSA model could just be the best way for small scale farmers to grow their businesses. In this episode we hear from Alice Warner - https://fiveservesproduce.com.au/ Shannon Kelly - https://fullcirclefarm.com.au/ Lizzie Buscaino - https://www.piccolofarm.com.au/ Joel Orchard, CSA Network Australia and New Zealand - http://www.csanetworkausnz.org/ 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.