Big Shift For Small Farms - Australian Agriculture and Regenerative Farming

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 Mil...

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...

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 far...

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...

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...

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 explo...

Episode Title: Ecological Weed Management Host: Edgars Greste Guest: Kim Deans, Agro-ecologist (with special contributions from Alexia Martinez & Kym Green) In this episode of The Big Shift for Small Farms , Edgars Greste takes a deep dive into the often-overlooked subject of weeds — and how thinking differently about them can transform your small farm. Joining him is agro-ecologist Kim Deans,...

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...

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 inclu...

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 S...

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, tra...

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 Montagu Thank you to our guest featured in this episode: Kelvin...

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 re...

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 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 mas...

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 sig...

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 a...

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 ha...

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 individual...

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 w...

Livestock farming has been practiced for over 10,000 years, so understandably there are many different approaches, particularly when adapting to climate change. Climate change affects livestock production, both directly through heat stress and indirectly through effects on grassland and species distribution.  Farmers are innovatively managing their livestock to improve productivity and reduce envi...

On the road again with Matt and Edgars. This time visiting farmers who have significantly injected life back into their farms growing wine, macadamias and cherries! Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem functions that support all life on Earth. Climate change significantly impacts biodiversity through the increase in the intensity and frequency of fires, storms, or periods of drought. Farmers co...

Soil is one of the most undervalued substances on this planet, but farmers know that our future depends on the health of our soil. Maintaining healthy soils improves productivity and resilience on farms and also plays a role in tackling climate change by capturing and storing vast amounts of carbon. Recent climatic changes contribute to many soil issues like erosion, nutrient imbalance, water logg...

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 restorin...

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....