Big Shift For Small Farms - Australian Agriculture and Regenerative Farming

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:

For more information: 

Natural Capital service finder - Local Land Services (nsw.gov.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:

For more information: 

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 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 Montagu

For more information: 

• Colo Consulting

Produced 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 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