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2012 – SE Sustainable Ag Report Challenges and Opportunities in Sustainable Agriculture in the SE of SA

Sustainable Ag Report 2012

Contents Aim ................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Key Points ...................................................................................................................................................... 3

Background ................................................................................................................................................... 4

Methodology ................................................................................................................................................. 4

Focus Groups............................................................................................................................................. 4

Data Collection .......................................................................................................................................... 5

Producer survey .................................................................................................................................... 5

Service Provider survey ......................................................................................................................... 5

ABS Census Results ............................................................................................................................... 5

2011 Benchmarking & Needs Analysis Report ...................................................................................... 6

Results ........................................................................................................................................................... 6

ABS Commodities Report Information...................................................................................................... 6

Focus Groups............................................................................................................................................. 6

Discussion.................................................................................................................................................... 10

Collaboration & Leadership .................................................................................................................... 11

What is currently happening? ............................................................................................................. 11

Further Actions to Address the Issue .................................................................................................. 11

Communication and Engagement........................................................................................................... 12



Livestock .................................................................................................................................................. 13

What has happened? .......................................................................................................................... 13


Water ...................................................................................................................................................... 15



Soils ......................................................................................................................................................... 16



Agropolitics ............................................................................................................................................. 17



Research & Development & Funding ...................................................................................................... 18



Climate and Carbon Farming .................................................................................................................. 18



Markets & Profitability ............................................................................................................................ 19



Succession & Next Generation ................................................................................................................ 20



Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................... 21

Appendix 1 – South East Consultant survey results

Appendix 2 – Extended responses from the South East consultant Survey

Aim The aim of this report is to summarise the views of the focus groups and service provider survey, for the use of key stakeholders in agriculture across the South East. It is also intended to serve as a reference document for the South East Natural Resources Management Board when making planning decisions in relation to sustainable agriculture in the region. We hope that this information will be utilised by all stakeholders when applying for funding or considering communications and engagement plans for any future projects.

Key Points • Three focus groups were conducted in the South East in August 2012, and one consultant survey

was conducted in October 2012.

• As industries, government departments and service providers become more specialised, it is important that information from all of these sources is integrated and collaboration occurs as much as possible at a local level, to ensure the best possible outcomes for producers in the South East

• Engagement of producers in the South East is a challenge which may need a strategic and collaborative approach


• Input costs, and commodity prices have a serious impact on producers ability to maintain their natural resources

• A holistic approach to research and development and extension programs, with strong focus on profitability are key to increasing knowledge and positive outcomes for producers in the South East.

Background This report has been prepared as a part of the South East Regional Landcare Facilitator Project which aims to improve communication, coordination and collaboration of individuals, industries and groups involved in sustainable agriculture in the South East. The project also includes the provision of information on relevant sustainable agricultural issues through a variety of methods including the AgconnectSE website and fortnightly e-news, workshops and field days, regular networking with groups, organisations and other key agricultural stakeholders at a regional and state level. The project also communicates relevant information provided through the Australian Government National Landcare Facilitator Network and the Carbon Farming Initiatives. During 2011 a Benchmarking Needs Analysis was developed through a producer survey, and utilising meetings from focus groups run by the then DWLBC. In 2012 it was determined that small focus groups with invited producers, consultants and key stakeholders would assist in identifying the issues and challenges of producers in the region. To complement the Focus Groups a survey for producers and one for agricultural services provides was also undertaken.

This report has been developed to compare the results of the 2011 needs analysis with the outcomes of the focus groups and service provider survey.

It is intended that this report will be communicated to sustainable agriculture stakeholders in the South East. A copy of the report will be sent to all those invited to the focus groups, and key stakeholders in the region, some of the findings will be presented at Sustainable Agricultural group and community meetings as relevant until the end of the project in June 2013.

Methodology

Focus Groups In 2010, and 2011 DWLBC held single sustainable agriculture focus groups in the Upper South East. Some excellent information was gleaned from the two original focus groups which helped to guide the outcomes for the Regional Landcare Facilitator Project. The success of these workshops has led to trialling small focus groups in the lower, mid and upper south east in 2012. Hosting the groups in different areas (Mount Gambier, Lucindale & Tintinara) allowed for the diversity of agricultural industries, soil types and the unique challenges that face different areas of the region. These focus groups were funded jointly through the Regional Landcare Facilitator Project , and DEWNR in collaboration with the Coroong and Tatiaria LAPs. Sharon Honner from Ag Consulting was contracted to


facilitate the groups as it was important to have a skilled and impartial facilitator who does not live in the region to run the process. Approximately 30 people were invited to the Mid and Lower South East focus group, and approximately 50 were invited to the Upper South East group the total attendance was 57 participants. The format of each meeting was the same, and it was aimed at ensuring that each attendee was able to identify challenges and opportunities for sustainable agriculture in their local area. These challenges and opportunities were then prioritised as a group, once prioritised those with higher votes were then selected for a small groups discussion to identify some outcomes.

Data Collection

Producer survey To build on the producer survey conducted in 2011 and to collaborate with the water extension project a survey was designed to gain information from landholders down to the specific industry level. This also included questions aimed specifically at irrigators. In 2011 the survey was distributed through the From the Ground Up publication in 2012 it was decided that due to the length of the survey it would only be done through an online survey. Respondents were offered the opportunity to go into a prize draw for completing the survey as was done in 2011. Despite wide spread promotion through a variety of methods including AgConnectSE and From the Ground Up and lengthening the survey period, responses to the survey were very low. Factors that lead to such a poor response are believed to be as follows:

- The survey length - anecdotal evidence was provided that the survey was too long and required a large time commitment to complete

- The survey was only available online – perhaps discounting landholders who do not use the internet regularly, or not having a hard copy physically present as a reminder to fill it out.

- Many other groups and businesses have undertaken landholders surveys during 2012 leading to a level of survey fatigue amongst producers

Due to the low level of response the results have not been included as part of the analysis of this report.

Service Provider survey In conjunction with the landholder survey a consultants survey was trialled due to the response from last years survey on how landholders access information. In last year’s producer survey the number one way people got information for their farming business was from their consultant, followed closely by the internet. This survey was significantly shorter than the producer survey, and with a small amount of promotion we received 19 responses, from a good cross section of agricultural consultants.

ABS Census Results The 2011 ABS Census results has recently been made available some of the relevant information from this census has been included to assist in providing background information on Agriculture in the South East of South Australia.


2011 Benchmarking & Needs Analysis Report The results from the 2011 Benchmarking and Needs Analysis Report are included as part of the discussion of this report. A copy of the 2011 Benchmarking and Needs Analysis Report can be found in the library at www.agconnectse.org.au, by using ‘benchmarking’ as a key word search.

Results

ABS Commodities Report Information The Agricultural Commodities Report, which is derived from information from the 2011Census.

The total land area devoted to productive agriculture estimated to be 2,029,133 ha , which is approximately 72.5% of the total land area of the South East NRM Board Region. This figure does not include properties that derived less than $5000 of their income from agricultural production.

Table 1. Results from the ABS Commodity Report for the South East NRM Board Region of SA

Percentages for the SE Region Result as a %

Grazing as a % of total land use 78.04

Improved pastures as a % of total Land 62.29

Improved pastures as a % of grazing land 79.82

Land used for pasture seed production as a % of total land 1.86

Land used for forestry as a % of total land 0.38

Land used for Cropping as a % of total land 15.55

Land used for hay & silage both cereal & pasture as a % of total land 3.44

Land used for vineyards as a % of total land 0.79

Land used for nurseries as a % of total land 0.01

Land used for vegetable seed as a % of total land 0.04

Privately owned land used for conservation 4.69

Livestock Numbers Result as a

Number

Total sheep Numbers 3594908.00

Total Beef Numbers 584140.00

Total Dairy Cattle 74956.00

Total Pig Numbers 38599.00

Total other livestock, horses, buffalo, deer, goats, alpaccas etc 6632.00

Focus Groups

Participants at each of the Focus Groups were asked the following question:

“What are the opportunities/challenges for sustainable agriculture from 2012-15”?

http://www.agconnectse.org.au/


Results are outlined in Table 2.

Responses from the question were prioritised from high to low as part of the group to allow further discussion of the highest priority issues. Each of the issues presented were considered to be important but could not be covered in the time allowed at the focus group sessions. Results are presented in alphabetical order within the high, medium, low ranking as they were not prioritised further.

Those issues highlighted in blue were briefly discussed as part of small groups, and action targets were assigned to them. These will be utilised in engaging with groups, or when helping to design projects that relate to these issues. Any SE group or organisation can get access to these short plans, by requesting a full copy of the report.

.

Opportunties/ Challenges Where Votes Adapting to climate variability (dryness) for sustainability, research into new crops and pastures USE H

Alternative fertiliser and nutrient management trials on a regional scale. LSE H

Alternative to mains water, availability for livestock USE H Benchmarking across enterprises on farm and off farm – look outside the square and our own farm gate USE H

Continual reduction in R&D capacity in the region USE H Cost/price squeeze – impacts on farm size, they increase – decreases number of population in areas, impacts on ability to be green MSE H

Engagement of farmers in the SE, -reduce number of events and more relevant, -New ways of engagement supported, -collaboration of groups and industry in testing these things LSE H

Federal $’s for regional irrigation system upgrades - c.f. MDB LSE H

Getting farmers to go out and test soil, water etc, to see if they have a problem LSE H

Improve platforms to deliver outcomes and extension USE H Improve productivity on poor performing non wetting soils:- addressing crop establishment, weed management, soil fertility, pastures USE H Improved collaboration between private consultants, service providers, govt and ag groups and industry MSE H Improved engagement – not just workshops, if workshops stuff that farmers want etc, E.g. webinars, videos, ipads, extension material, smart phones, blogging MSE H

Increase urban understanding and support for agriculture LSE H Lack of up and coming younger generation on farm and industry impacts on communities MSE H

Livestock water quality – impacts on productivity, sodium content USE H

Long term commitments to consistent policy and resourced programs MSE H

Mains water cost is becoming unsustainable for livestock USE H

Management of conservation areas water ways/drains MSE H

Need to increase an understanding of our principle asset – the land USE H


Opportunities for regional irrigation systems/management training – calcium build up LSE H Perennial pastures – what works, what doesn’t, why use them (sustainable drought proofing/climate change) MSE H

Profit –population stability, allows more employees, retains youth MSE H

Programs for integrated livestock, -farmers teaching farmers, will still need funding *meeting between key groups LSE H

Soil health improved MSE H

Soil structure – water logging, salinity, fertility, locality relevant MSE H Systems which recognise and reward proactive landholders in natural resource management LSE H Understanding our soils – soil enhancement, biota, nutrients (ways of using soil nutrients without huge outside applications) USE H Value of farming (by city based people and govt) environmental maintenance, professional, food security MSE H

Water – assistance to irrigation industry LSE H

Water – land use LSE H

Water conservation, weirs/drains infrastructure maintenance LSE H

Weeds – proclaimed and others e.g. silver grass impact of Lucerne pastures USE H

Youth – new generation USE H

3 days a week – small farm facilitator across SE LSE M

Address tree die back LSE M

Alternative fertiliser and nutrient management project at a regional scale MSE M

Balance between farming vs greens “the right to farm” LSE M Better engagement between consultants and govt and industries, -mentoring for young consultants LSE M

Bringing less productive soils into good production i.e. clay spreading etc. MSE M Building relationships and build knowledge – communication pathway farmer to policy maker and return MSE M

Capture the diversity of funding that’s becoming available (be prepared) LSE M

Carbon farming – threats and opportunities MSE M

Carbon farming, -what opportunities? For sequestration and emissions reduction LSE M Communication – reach those ‘new’ people and possibly younger generation with info and develop relationships with them (farmer – govt teaching pathway) USE M

Composting Trial/Demonstration LSE M Create effective processes to ensure organisational priorities meet landholder needs LSE M Decision making tools – appropriate return on $ invested – gap is researcher to user USE M

Developing skill in service providers and retaining them in the area LSE M Education to and engage corporate farms impact is reduction in no of families/people in the community USE M

Energy supply for both mobile and fixed use. Aim to be self sufficient MSE M Engagement – direction from farmers in different areas for Agconnect library collection of research, not reinventing the wheel, not just workshops, what else? Videos, blogging, issues USE M


Funding for research and dissemination – our region and beyond USE M Gap in urban community knowledge in understanding Ag – curriculum in schools for kids MSE M Implementation of strategies who will lead/invest e.g. companies, govt, Tatiara LAP, think broadly about who is prepared to invest USE M Improve the way the department engages with landholders so their knowledge to experience is recognised and valued MSE M Improved monitoring and evaluation – how do we know if we have achieved sus ag? Many different agencies/organisations measure stuff MSE M

Involve ag consultants in management of natural resources MSE M Issues based groups driving – research, extension, lobbying, -water, sandy soils, w/o clays etc involving all groups and agencies USE M Knowledge – skills, learning, information, A mechanism to share, communicate, linkages, cost producer to research to govt USE M

Lack of people in ag- promote ag as a career LSE M More biological ‘pest management’ snails – conical and rounds, hard to kill/manage weeds (horehound, false caper, caltrop) insect pests:- Lucerne crops USE M People – succession, time, values, goals, skills, strengths, Get the people right the rest will come USE M

Primary producers more united for effective lobbying MSE M

Regional network of pasture trials and demonstrations including cross border USE M Reluctance for people to be involved in community programs – meetings, ag bureaus, landcare etc. Adopt new method of communication, Engage younger gen LSE M Resourced local communities, farm groups involved in decision making, issues priority setting, funded activities MSE M

Value adding to existing produce eg processing in region LSE M

“Right” to farm – minimise govt intervention, maximise value of farming MSE L

Adaption to climate change/variability USE L

Aussie ag feeding the world – is it a mug’s game? MSE L Being able to be more flexible in my role to incorporate changing needs of farmers e.g. non wetting soils, weed management declared weeds, generic weeds USE L Closer alliance between agriculture and forestry i.e. forest waste, bio fuels, electricity generation, compost LSE L

Commodity fluctuations MSE L Communication between service providers/researchers to obtain which way money is spent and in what area LSE L Create farmer delegation-“one voice” Ability to remain sustainable given rising C.O.P. and decreasing farm gate prices LSE L

Don’t let funding limit what’s possible LSE L Economies of scale – (do we succeed with larger enterprises) e.g. corporate farmers LSE L

Federal $’s for regional irrigation system upgrades c.f. MDB LSE L Getting involved with Ag Groups in various areas to increase communication and education (both ways) LSE L

Harnessing precision ag for livestock – what is it, how, why/value MSE L

Improved generational change LSE L Intensive feeding of livestock in a broadacre sense growing more nutrious feeds possibly feedlotting – pasture management LSE L


Livestock system extension program – farmers teaching farmers, integrated pest management MSE L

Managing livestock in dry years USE L Obtaining and sustaining expertise in all parts of Ag (need documentation and mentoring) MSE L

Prescriptive Projects – restricting flexibility of outcomes relevant to region MSE L

Resources – dept employees, how to retain knowledge and research MSE L

Snails USE L

Solid carbon – what and where USE L

Sub surface acidity in redgum soils MSE L

Talk the talk versus walk the walk USE L

Talk the talk versus walk the walk USE L Understanding upper SE and lower SE differences targeting programs to relevant areas LSE L

Upper se farmers teaching lower se farmers about resilience USE L

Using technology, -phone apps recording on farm, -communication, -precision ag LSE L

Water USE L

Water for irrigation MSE L

Key

Where USE – Upper South East, meeting held at Tintinara 25 participants

MSE – Mid South East, meeting held at Lucindale, 12 participants

LSE – Lower South East, meeting held at Mount Gambier, 15 participants

Votes H – High number of votes

M – Medium number of votes

L – Lower number of votes

Discussion


Collaboration & Leadership There was a general feeling from the focus groups that participants would like government, private enterprise, and groups working together better, and that they would prefer to see an emphasis on longer term projects.

They would like government, farmer group, and private consultants to collaboratively review what is working now and why, what isn’t working, what can be done better. They also wanted to see some leadership from organisations like the NRM Board, Farmer Groups, Ag Excellence Alliance to work together towards securing more research and development funding for sustainable agriculture in the South East, which they perceived was dwindling.

As industries, government departments and service providers become more specialised, it is important that information from all of these sources is integrated as much as possible at a local level, to ensure the best possible outcomes for producers in the South East. A more holistic approach to engagement and research is required which is more representative of what producers actually do on the ground, and not just what one funding body wants to achieve. For example, a project that may include soil improvement, water monitoring, pasture management and animal health on the one demonstration site. With funding from the SENRM Board, DEWNR, Meat and Livestock Australia, Caring for our Country, group and producer in kind support.

The Upper South East focus group wanted to see more issues based groups which involved everyone, from government, private, farming groups and farmers, and dealt with research, extension, and lobbying– some examples of issues are sandy soils and water issues

While there are many agricultural industries in the South East, they all use resources such as soil and water – either irrigation or rainfall, and there are learning’s that come from across industries. For example a study of inter row plantings for building carbon in the viticultural industry could be included on a report into soil carbon sequestration.

What is currently happening? • The RLF project has begun to make connections between projects and facilitate joint actions on

the ground, some examples of this are opportunities for extended research on Enhancing Soil Health Demonstration Farms, and the Pathways to Productivity Expo in Bordertown. As the communication part of the RLF project has grown and is able to be maintained, we are now more ready to move into a more focused collaborative phase of the project.

Further Actions to Address the Issue • RLF’s will facilitate a joint industries meeting (to be held in December 2012) with key

stakeholders to discuss collaborative funding opportunities and ways to improve communication and engagement.


Communication and Engagement Service providers report that they gather their knowledge from a wide variety of sources, the top three ways are internet sites, workshops and other agribusiness providers. Around 50% of service providers also source their information from industry bodies, in-house training and field days. It is interesting to compare this with the producer survey from the 2011 where a large number of producer’s reported that they mainly source their information from consultants and the internet.

Concerns with farmer engagement have been a re-occurring issue discussed with the Regional Landcare Facilitators throughout the year, by many agricultural and industry groups in the South East. Groups are finding it more difficult to get farmers to events, and anecdotally many farmers expect their consultant to attend workshops and field days and report the information that they need to know back to them. At the focus groups it was seen as being important to build a more collaborative approach to engagement in the South East, and to try new things

Service providers saw that the following were issues that groups needed to address

• Communication of events

• Incorporating younger operators with diverse ideas to get higher returns from the same areas of land

• Keeping up to date

• Maintaining viable farming groups - both numbers and dollars

• Quality leadership.

The focus groups echoed the sentiments of the 2011 Benchmarking and Needs Analysis Report in wanting to reduce duplication of effort, whether it is perceived or otherwise. Not reinventing the wheel was key, as was farmer driven research and extension programs.

In the focus groups participants wanted a mix of old and new styles of engagement. It was important to rethink engagement as not just ‘bums on seats’ at workshops or field days. To think about what other measures we can use in funding applications in order to implement a high quality, varied and interesting extension and communications plan.

Some suggestions of specific engagement tools and activities were benchmarking, various decision making tools, video’s, smart phone apps, blogs, and information on the internet. As well as making use of existing meetings and groups, making better use of technology, webinars, i-pads, and blogging, but making sure that it isn’t all about the web. The focus groups wanted agricultural groups and extension providers to think about the basics for example getting farmers to test, their soil, plants and water were seen as being very important.

It was seen that there were many opportunities lost with projects outcomes not being written up well in a format that is accessible to farmers. There is also an opportunity for information to be widely shared across industry type as often research findings are relevant to a wider audience than is targeted for communication. It was considered important to look for opportunities to collate results from different


projects where the outcomes are complimentary, and tounderstand the difference between upper south east and lower south east farming and to tailor programs to suit.

Prescriptive projects on specific topics, rather than a holistic and ongoing approach were seen as a hindrance in getting things done on the ground, while we may not be able to change the funding programs we may be able to change the way that we write the funding applications, even down to the name of the project so it doesn’t alienate audiences, e.g. Soil carbon project vs improving productivity in your farm soils.

A holistic farmer driven approach was seen as being important, that provides that answers that farmers would like, rather than what funders said think farmers need to know?. There are often small gaps to be filled with making relationships between projects which could make information more relevant, for example compiling pasture research public or private done in the SE, Western Victoria, and the Mallee in the past 12 months into one document. Improved collaboration should help this situation.

What is currently happening? • There are multiple events happening in the South East, often they relate to a funding source for

a project or a product that is being sold. In certain months mixed farmers could go to an event every single day.

Further Actions to Address the Issue • The RLF project to discuss the findings of this report with groups and organisation and work on

brainstorming a more strategic approach to extension in the South East, and sharing the risk of trying new ideas between groups.

Livestock The major issue in relation to livestock in the Upper South East is the cost of mains water, and access to quality water for livestock where mains water is unavailable. It is a serious issue which could have severe impacts on the soil resources of the Upper South East, if farmers choose to move away from grazing on deep sands to cropping systems.

Improved understanding of pastures, and the need for a regional pastures research network, possibly with cross border links was also seen as being important. As well as holistic and integrated projects which looked at a variety of elements of livestock management, for example soils, water, pastures and animal health.

What has happened? • Livestock farming is currently quite under represented as a main focus in groups across the

South East. Especially when we consider that nearly 80% of agricultural land in the SE is grazed. The following table looks at what has been done and/or begun in the past 12 months.


Type Host/ Funders Name Details DemonstrationSite AWI SE Sheep Health

Project Various sheep health issues 2 demo sites – 2 year sites, due for completion 2014

Trial Site SE NRM Board – CfoC Pastures after the drains

3 year trials Looking for appropriate productive pasture species in post drained soils, due for completion 2013

Trial Site University of Adelaide, Action on the Ground

Early Weaning A study comparing early turn off rates on feedlotted, intensively grazed and extensively grazed properties in Meningie, Keilira and Furner. Due for completion Feb 2015

Modelling/ Case Studies

SARDI Action on the Ground

Feed Type testing Doing case studies of one beef cattle (technograze) and two sheep farms (feedlot), where they will be testing some innovative feed types and additives Due for completion ??

Field day/ Forum Sheep Connect SA Sheep Innovation Day Field Day/ Forum Dairy SA Dairy Innovation Day Field Day/ Forum SEPLA – jointly

funded Pastures, Soils, Carbon

Field Day/ Forum SE Merino Breeders SE Merino Breeders Field Day

Sales/ Field Days Various businesses Stud Cattle and Sheep field days

Benchmarking AWI?? Lifetime Wool Small benchmarking groups tied to a locality

Workshop/ Farm Walk SENRMB – jointly funded

Feeding Livestock in Dry Times

Workshop/ Farm Walk SA Sheep Industry Flystrike


Fund?? Workshop/ Farm Walk MLA Bred Well/ Fed Well Workshop/ Farm Walk Better Bull Selection Workshop/ Farm Walk Dairy Australia Optimise energy use

in dairy sheds

Workshop/ Farm Walk Dairy Australia Automated milking systems

Workshop/ Farm Walk Dairy Australia Precision Ag in Dairy Workshop/ Farm Walk SENRMB Post drainage pasture

field days

Workshop/ Farm Walk Solly Business Services MLA

Marketing more lambs without more Ewes

Workshop/ Farm Walk MLA Stephen Lee – Uni of Adelaide

Beef CRC Breeder Workshops

Workshop/ Farm Walk MLA Making more from Sheep

Confident livestock marketing – sheep & lambs

Workshop/ Farm Walk MLA More beef from Pastures

Confident livestock marketing -cattle

Workshop/ Farm Walk AWI Healthier Sheep Forum

Workshop/ Farm Walk Dairy SA Dairy Cow nutrition Field Day/ Forum SENRMB

Jointly funded Pathways to Productivity Expo

Workshop/ Farm Walk SEPLA Sticky Beak Day Pasture Renovation, sub clover, perennial grasses

Further Actions to Address the Issue • A revisit of livestock extension information, funding sources, and key stakeholders in animal

health, pasture management, grazing practices, &soils accessible to producers. A holistic approach by all groups in the development of projects

• Application for funds by a joint team to address livestock health issues in relation to water quality

Water Challenges and opportunities around irrigation and drainage featured highly in the focus groups this year, as compared to previous years where there has been more of a focus on dryland agriculture. In the Lower South East particularly what was wanted was education and support around irrigation efficiency, in relation to production and system management and efficiency, and information on the reduction of calcium build up. Also improved water conservation and a plan and funding to address the poor state of infrastructure on Weirs and Drains.


In the Upper South East again water quality and the costs of mains water were the main issues, there are serious concerns in regard to possible future agricultural practice change in the Upper South East due to mains water costs and bore water quality.

What is currently happening? • NRM Officer Water Extension, is ensuring that information is available on water efficiency

• USE Irrigators, Mid SE Irrigator are groups that are still working with and for irrigators

• Mackillop Farm ManagementIrrigation Group was formed in November 2011

• The CTLAP Water sub-committee held the Upper South East Water Security Forum 2012

• Alpha Group Consulting field day on water leaks detection systems in the Upper South East

• Case study on water leaks detections systems, in From the Ground Up Bumper edition

• Free salinity testing of water available at the Coorong Tatiara LAP office in Tintinara

Further Actions to Address the Issue • Continue to provide support to irrigators to improve water use efficiency.

• The Upper South East Water Security sub Committee of the Coorong/ Tatiara LAPis currently looking for funding opportunities to subsidise leak reduction technology, and ways to improve water quality.

Soils Soils featured strongly in all three focus groups. The main themes being;

• Large scale regional alternative fertiliser and other product trials in a variety of soil types

• Programs which increase our understanding of soils, particularly fertility and biology

• How to manage problems soils like deep sands

• How to get more productivity from our soils with the least amount of inputs

What is currently happening? Type Host/ Funders Name Details Demonstration Site SENRMB - CfoC Enhancing Soil Health

Project Six Demonstration sites 4 x 3 year site 2x 1 year site

Demonstrations Site MFMG – CfoC Continuous Improvement of soils

12 x 1 year demonstration sites

Trial Site SE NRMB – CfoC Pastures after the drains

3 year trials Looking for appropriate productive pasture species in post drained soils

Demonstration site SENRMB – RLF project Soil Carbon Workshop Demo site

1 off testing on a farm with different treatments over time

Demonstration Site Upper South East Alternative Fertiliser 2 year site


Women in Livestock Trial Demonstration Site Lucerne Australia Alternative Fertiliser

Trials in Lucerne Crops

Trial Site Carbon 2020 Carbon 2020 – South East sites

Funding SENRMB Soil Tender Sub-surface Acidity Funding CTLAP CTLAP Grants Perrennial Pasture, Clay

Spreading, Sandhill Stabilisation

Case Studies Dairy SA SA Soil Nutrients case study

Looking at Nitrogen, and acidification

Field Days/ Forums SEPLA – Jointly funded Pastures, Soils, Carbon Workshop/ Farm Walk Dairy SA Understanding Soil

Biology

Workshop/ Farm Walk Millicent Biological Farming Discussion Group

Using soil biology and liquid inject seeding systems

Workshop/ Farm Walk SENRMB – CfoC Alternative, Fertiliser, trace elements, Soil Health

Workshop/ Farm Walk Reedy Creek FMG – funded by RLF project

Soils & Snails

Workshop/ Farm Walk TM organics Understanding Biological Inputs

Workshop/ Farm Walk SENRMB Sub-soil Injector Demo Workshop/ Farm Walk Lawrie Co Healthy Soil, Healthy

Animal

Field Day/ Forum SENRMB Jointly Funded

Pathways to Productivity Expo

Further Actions to Address the Issue • Investigate funding opportunities for region wide alternative fertiliser trials, utilising short

project brief from the USE focus group

• Continue to fund projects with a soils focus to ensure that landholders have access to technical information about best practice soil management

Agropolitics Agropolitical issues featured strongly in both the focus groups and the service provider survey. Of particular concern was urban understanding of agriculture, and in fact this was one of the highest rating issues in the Lower South East. The consultants were also concerned with this as well as the increasing influence of special interest groups and animal welfare organisations and their effect on agriculture. One consultant felt that there is too much division in farming groups in the South East, and no one group who represents the industry with political strength.


Further Actions to Address the Issue • SENRM Board community engagement to assess increased visibility in the environmental

education program, and to seek out opportunities to lift the profile of agriculture as they come to light ie farmers markets, small farmers workshops.

• Farmers Groups to consider lobbying models from other parts of Australia.

Research & Development & Funding There were some serious concerns at all focus groups, and from the service provider survey in regard to what was seen as a continual reduction in research and development capacity in the South East, as well as a decline in funds and funding applications to achieve these goals.

Importance was also given to ensuring that effective processes are used to ensure organisation goals meet landholder needs. Prescriptive projects that only address specific topics, and don’t address a more holistic farming approach were seen as a hindrance in getting things done on the ground.

A strategy to manage a regional approach to funding from a variety of sources, and to a variety of organisations in order to achieve the outcomes that landholders want is what is ultimately sought.

What is currently happening? • SARDI in the region have a number of small projects focusing on different aspects of livestock • Lucerne Australia and Mackillop have trial work happening • There are two small Action on the Ground projects expected to come online soon • There are private organization doing trial work particularly in Agronomy related trials

.Further Actions to Address the Issue • RLF project to review current research happening in the South East, both in public and private

enterprise and identify where links can be made.

• Develop a stronger regional voice and a strategic approach to funding whether from government or private sources. ( Collaborative meeting to held in December 2012)

Climate and Carbon Farming Adapting to climate variability is seen as being important for the focus groups, particularly in the Upper South East, and in the Mid South East in relation to pastures. Climate change and weather were also seen as being important to service providers, and this was not confined to service providers who serviced the Upper South East. The focus groups also wanted to better understand what could be done on the ground in relationship to the carbon farming initiative.

What is currently happening? • The Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI) has begun, but as yet there are few if any methodologies

relevant to agriculturalists in the South East.


• SE NRM Board received a small grant to communicate the CFI across the region through the RLF project. To date a Carbon Corner is published regularly in the agConnectSE e-news, speakers on Soil Carbon and emission reduction in livestock presented at the Pathways to Productivity Expo. Further promotion of Carbon Farming will be a feature at the Natural Resources SE display at the South East Field Day

• SARDI are undertaking case studies of beef cattle (technograze) and sheep farms (feedlot), where they will be testing some innovative feed types and additives.

• University of Adelaide are undertaking a study comparing early turn off rates on feedlotted, intensively grazed and extensively grazed properties in Meningie, Keilira and Furner.

Further Actions to Address the Issue • Adapting to climate change funds will become available in 2013, it will be important that the

SENRM Board, and farmer groups are prepared for writing applications in order to research or demonstrate South East relevant information.

• Specific areas for funding applications would be o What do we know now that can reduce emissions reduction – trialling this in extensive

farming systems o Nitrogen Management, trialling in extensive farming situations, including extension on

best practice record keeping for this potential CFI methodology o Building soil carbon in various soils types and rainfall zones in the SE, in productive

systems o Trialling of any new research on methane reductions, opportunity to collaborate with

SARDI and University of Adelaide

Markets & Profitability In the 2011 Benchmarking and Needs Analysis Report there was a topic called ‘the goal’ it was related to determining the upper limits for farming systems and associated costs. Issues with Profitability and high input costs featured strongly again this year, particularly within the consultant survey. This is an issue which is complex, and has national, global and local causes but it is ongoing and needs to be addressed. The flow on effects, for all of the South East’s natural resources, are serious if farm profitability continues to decrease.

The consultant report also showed a need to increase general business skills in farming, from staff management to Information Technology and finance.

What is currently happening? • Profitability of farming is decreasing, in many areas

• NRM farm offering an option for first step improvement of records management

• Lifetime Wool Cost of Production Workshop

• Various Dairy SA Programs

• Rural Financial Counselling Service is still available in the South East


Further Actions to Address the Issue • Initiate a discussion group with RDA, PIRSA, Rural Financial Counselling Service and others to

discuss strategies to help producers to improve profitability in various enterprise types.

• It is expected that if some of the other challenges and opportunities are addressed then farmers will have more control over their input costs, and possibly find ways to shorten the agriculture value chain.

• Potentially apply for funding under Caring for our Country for business up skilling workshops.

• RLF to work with MLA, re funding of business improvement workshops, and develop a communications plan to get farmers to them

• As part of monitoring and evaluation undertake a cost benefit analysis of inputs versus outputs to communicate to landholders. This will allow producers to make informed management decisions in relation to issues such as fertiliser inputs, irrigation scheduling etc

Succession & Next Generation Another bigger picture issue which needs to be addressed, is a lack of up and coming people in farming and agribusiness, and this was of great concern at all of the focus groups. Again a collaborative and multi faceted approach was seen as the solution for this issue. Some of the elements of this solution were seen as;

o Increasing secondary industries in regional areas o Mentoring/training available to encourage and support leadership o Mentoring up and down – the old learning from the young and vice versa o Succession planning improved on farms, govt depts., agribusiness o Farmers to encourage their children to get involved in Agriculture o Look at ways of reducing the costs of tertiary agriculture courses o When young people are involved inAgriculture, make sure that they have time and

money to go to agriculturally related events in the region and beyond, and encourage their involvement in groups.

It is interesting that there was a mixed response from service providers on whether there were enough career and business opportunities to keep them working in the South East. Some thought there were good opportunities, while others felt that their particular specialty was over serviced, while others felt that a lack of services for their partners and children would be what made them move from the region. Also it was noted that there was concern that in an effort to increase profitability farmers were getting larger, and this led to less people in the region in general, and the flow on effects on community services.

What is currently happening?

• A lack of programs that support and encourage young people in agriculture. In the past there have been mentoring programs and young guns groups, many of which have dwindled.

• Sponsorship grant to encourage young farmers to attend the SA SPAA Conference early 2013.


Further Actions to Address the Issue • The SE NRM Board to seek further ways in which to provide programs and initiatives to support

young people in agriculture.

• Farming groups should discuss this issue, and come up with some possible solutions

• Farmers encouraging their children to get involved in agriculture, and when they do work within a family business offer them chances to learn and get involved in farmer groups.

• Look at further ways to promote agriculture as a career e.g. promotion at TAFE career days, supporting Certificate in Agriculture Students to attend relevant agricultural field days through better coordination and communication.

It was the intention of the landcare facilitator project to run yearly focus groups and surveys, we are now considering doing them bi-annually in order to ensure that we have time to respond to the issues, and don’t overload landholders with requests on their time.

Conclusion

This discussion has not addressed every challenge or opportunity that was put up as part of the focus groups and survey, but has instead discussed the main themes and compared them to those identified in 2011.

It has taken time to build networks and trust in the communication of AGconnectSE and the Regional Landcare Facilitator Project. However as these networks have developed it is anticipated that the focus for the remainder of project will be in increasing the collaboration between groups on a larger scale, whilst continuing to build and maintain the networks and provide information through various activities such as agconnectSE. It is important to recognise that collaboration will not be a one size fits all process. Each agricultural group and organisation and business operating in the South East, or providing funds or knowledge to the South East has a keen sense of its own identity and the SE RLF project does not seek to suggest that these groups should collaborate on all issues or topics.

From the Focus Groups there was a strong feeling that something needs to be done in regard to particular challenges and opportunities, but there is not one organisation, group or person to take the lead on these responses. Through the Regional Landcare Facilitators project we are able to make a start to develop leadership on particular issues from various parts of the agricultural community, and to ensure that any overlaps are communicated between different working teams. It is also of concern that at this stage funding for the Regional Landcare Facilitator role is only secure until July 2013.


The complexity of communicating to the SE agricultural community has again been a large theme – and it is difficult to reach everyone. There are lots of ideas about how we can do it better, but often it is a case of give it a go and see, and to learn from what has worked. Central to any communications program will be consultants, agribusiness service providers and others on the ground with the farming community, but it is important to remember that most of these people operate in a highly competitive private enterprise environment, even those that we may have traditionally seen as government consultants and researchers. Groups and organisations are also key to improving communications. Many groups may need to look at upskilling their key networkers in Information Technology and communications in order to be able to communicate the best and most pertinent information for their groups needs, for example teaching group members how to forward emails, or print off emails, or click links in email newsletters. How to do basic research on the internet, and possibly how to start a face book group.. It will be important to evaluate what is done in other regions of Australia and the world and see what works best for the South East.

The focus groups showed us that the South East wants farmer driven research and extension, but groups and organisations are finding it more and more difficult to engage with producers. It will be important for improved collaboration and a re-think around engagement, and for smaller locally based groups to be encouraged to get involved in contributing to strategic directions for the region.

For the SE NRM Board some of the main challenges identified that directly relate to natural resource assets were:

• Water quality and mains water costs in the Upper South East and its impact on the relevance of livestock enterprises in this area, and the potential erosion problems that cropping deep sands may create.

• Irrigation efficiency across the region

• A fund and plan for adequately maintaining and improving infrastructure on the SE drainage scheme.

• Management of difficult soils, such as deep sands, non wetting sands with little access to clay, sub surface acidity in red gum country, alkaline soils, drained soils, water logged soils, saline non-drained soils, shallow soils.

• Ongoing general soil health education for soil health and productivity improvement.

• Understanding of alternatives to costly fertilisers and chemicals, and improved fertiliser and chemical management where there is no alternative in productive systems

• Pastures, research and extension which involves pasture type for the right soil and climatic conditions

• A focus on best practice pasture renovation,

• Demonstrations and extension of improved grazing management and ways which improved soil, pasture and water management can improve animal health.

These issues will require a strategic collaborative approach to ensure that appropriate research and extension is developed, an appropriate level of funding is secured and to improve communication and engagement with landholders.


Agriculture in the South East is important for the future of the region and the future food security of Australia and the world. Our farmers are innovative and adaptable, but they cannot take the steps required to hurdle future challenges without a collaborative effort from industry groups, government , farmer groups and private enterprise.

1 of 10

South East Consultant Survey

1. Contact Details - Optional (for competition purposes only). Please provide name and

contact phone number.

Response

Count

17

answered question 17

skipped question 2

2. What area of the South East do you do most of your work in? (ie mid SE, Coastal

region, Upper South East, Lower South East etc)

Response

Count

19


skipped question 0

3. Do you interact regularly with farming, viticultural or agricultural industry groups in the

South East of SA?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 89.5% 17

No 10.5% 2


skipped question 0

TDalla

Highlight

2 of 10

4. What types of agricultural production do you service in the South East?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Beef production 61.1% 11

Sheep (wool) production 44.4% 8

Sheep (prime lamb) production 61.1% 11

Livestock studs 27.8% 5

Small seed production 44.4% 8

Hay / silage production 55.6% 10

Pasture production 61.1% 11

Broadacre crop production 61.1% 11

Horticultural production 16.7% 3

Dairying 27.8% 5

Viticulture 11.1% 2

Agro-forestry 0.0% 0

Other (please specify)

11.1% 2


skipped question 1

3 of 10

5. Which of the following methods are the most effective in getting the information you

need to advise your clients?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Other Agribusiness Consultants 61.1% 11

Internet sites 77.8% 14

Workshops 72.2% 13

In house training program/

information database50.0% 9

Field Days 55.6% 10

Information from Industry

Research Bodies like GRDC, MLA,

GWDRC etc

55.6% 10

Newspaper articles 27.8% 5

Radio programs 11.1% 2

Journals 38.9% 7

Other (please specify)

16.7% 3


skipped question 1

6. Do you volunteer in the community outside of work hours?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 88.9% 16

No 11.1% 2


skipped question 1

4 of 10

7. If so, how many hours a week would you spend on volunteer activities?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

0-1 hour 23.5% 4

2-4 hours 41.2% 7

5-7 hours 23.5% 4

8-12 hours 11.8% 2

12-15 hours 0.0% 0

15 hours + 0.0% 0


skipped question 2

8. Is this volunteering directly related to Agriculture?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 41.2% 7

No 58.8% 10


skipped question 2

5 of 10

9. What are the top 5 challenges your SE farmer clients are currently facing?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Challenge 1

100.0% 15

Challenge 2

100.0% 15

Challenge 3

93.3% 14

Challenge 4

80.0% 12

Challenge 5

73.3% 11


skipped question 4

10. What do you see as being major challenges for agriculture in the South East in the

next decade?

Response

Count

15


skipped question 4

11. What do you see as being the major challenges for these SE farming / industry

groups in the next decade?

Response

Count

14


skipped question 5

TDalla

Highlight

TDalla

Highlight

TDalla

Highlight

6 of 10

12. Have you recommended any grant funding opportunties to your clients in the past 12

months?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 53.3% 8

No 46.7% 7


skipped question 4

13. If yes, then what have you recommended?

Response

Count

8

answered question 8

skipped question 11

14. Have you viewed / used the AgConnectSE website before?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 86.7% 13

No 13.3% 2


skipped question 4

TDalla

Highlight

7 of 10

15. What areas do you most use on the AgConnectSE website?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Events 66.7% 8

Latest News 50.0% 6

Groups & Organisations 25.0% 3

Projects/ Trials 25.0% 3

Library 25.0% 3

Grants 16.7% 2

All of the Above 16.7% 2


skipped question 7

16. What areas of the AgConnectSE website could be improved?

Response

Count

4

answered question 4

skipped question 15

17. Do your clients use or commonly refer to AgConnectSE?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

No clients 44.4% 4

Some clients 55.6% 5

Most clients 0.0% 0

answered question 9

skipped question 10

TDalla

Highlight

8 of 10

18. Do you receive the fortnightly AgConnectSE e-newsletter via email?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 100.0% 12

No 0.0% 0


skipped question 7

19. If not, would like to receive it? (Please enter email below)

Response

Count

0

answered question 0

skipped question 19

20. An annual one-day forum for regional agronomists, retailers, consultants and

advisors on South East sustainable agriculture issues (including technical speakers on

specific issues, and discussions where consultants / advisors share their view points)

has been suggested. Would you be prepared to attend such an event?

Response

Count

15


skipped question 4

TDalla

Highlight

9 of 10

21. If sponsorship funds were available would you go to more conferences and forums?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 50.0% 7

No 50.0% 7

Any additional comments

6


skipped question 5

22. Do you think that there are enough career/ business opportunities to keep you

working in your profession in the South East for the long term?

Response

Count

13


skipped question 6

23. Do you or your employer have a succession plan for your role?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 53.3% 8

No 46.7% 7


skipped question 4

TDalla

Highlight

10 of 10

24. What age bracket applies to you?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

0-25 0.0% 0

26-40 33.3% 5

41-55 26.7% 4

56-65 33.3% 5

66 and older 6.7% 1


skipped question 4

25. Do you have any other comments that you would like to make in relation to

agriculture in the South East?

Response

Count

10


skipped question 9

TDalla

Highlight

Appendix 2

2 - What area/s of the SE do you do most of your work in? Region Number Of Respondents servicing that area USE 3 Mid & Upper 4 Mid 4 LSE 3 All the SE 3

9. What are the top 5 challenges your SE farmer clients are currently facing? Challenges for Farmers Commodity Price and Profitability Unpredictable market/price changes Prices - most are price takers Profitability - Nett returns to clients for livestock and their cost of production. Managing Price Volatility Price of Commodities making a profit to ensure viability of agricultural land Declining terms of trade financial buoyancy Profitability Consistent enterprise returns Monopoly in markets (Coles/Woolworths)

Cost of Production Increased input costs Cost of production - too many years just breaking even input costs Rising cost of production Costs involved in establishing quality pasture. Rising cost of production High expenses Increasing debt levels Mains Water costs for livestock and cost of alternatives. Price of Inputs prices water security/cost for irrigation & stock Cost of Machinery

Government Support/ Research & Development Lack of Support Inadequate and further declining research in agriculture to service our future technology needs withdrawal of Government funding and of service providers to all agencies (agriculture, health etc) Changes in politics Loss of extension services R&D/gov support is being cut Lack of support by State and Federal Governments

Climate weather and climate Weather

Succession Selling the farm Succession Planning People to work in agriculture An ageing farming community with less young ones getting involved Labour Units Keeping the family involved in the business - More money in alternative work forces.Confidence in agriculture Inadequate through-put in training of agricultural expertise

Pest Management Slug damage Managing Pests environmental weeds insect damage Resistant weeds Chemical resistance of weeds

On Farm Issues Managing feed resources to improve productivity matching genetics with management and market specifications new technology - working out what is right for there business financial incentives to better manage buffer zones and remnant native vegetation agronomic production issues (frost, herbicide resistance) Lack of control of Sheep Lice in the community and an awareness of the costs associated Non compliance costs related to beef market specifications

Business Skills improving their IT skills Improving their financial management skills paperwork lack of proper environmental farm planning Lots of information how to find what is relevant Gaining good advice ability to recruit & hold staff

Time poor - cant find staff Agricultural supply chain is too long - distance between paddock & plate. Makes communication too hard

10. What do you see as being major challenges for agriculture in the South East in the next decade?

Natural Resources • Natural resource decline and with soil amendment products increase in price above a threshold

of return of investment.

• Managing pest and weeds

Cost of Production/ Profitability • Increasing production, while decreasing cost.

• Profitability/Return on Investment - Influence of Coles and Woolworths on prices

• The major challenges will be associated with costs. 1.Water Costs 2. Pasture Establishment 3. Fertiliser 4. Infrastructure - Shearing sheds, Yards, Handling Equipment. Returns

• Increasing costs of production

• Sustaining capital growth in land

• financial bouyancy,

• Addressing the challenges mentioned above (challenges for farmers) and turning them around

Government Funding/ Leadership/ Training & Extension • Finding a way to continue to learn how to increase production without publicly funded research.

• Reduced research and extension capability inhibiting the ability to incorporate continuous improvement practices necessary to counter declining commodity values

• Research updates esp pastures and soil/fertiliser

• Funding ongoing research at a regional level

• Lifting the profile of Ag in the area

• A lack of industry leadership

• Shortage of Independent advice

• Lack of good quality farm management training

• continuance of knowledge about better farming practice

Climate • Weather is a big factor that we can't control.

• Changes in the environment - adapting our farming to match

• Seasonal Variability

Succession • Keeping young people in Ag service businesses

• Declining rural services (health, education) leading to reduced ability to attract people (employees/service industries) to smaller rural towns.

• Labour shortages

11. What do you see as being the major challenges for these SE farming / industry groups in the next decade?

Political/ Industry Change • Properties in the Upper South East being bought by ‘xxxxxxxx’ has had an effect on social

aspects of Upper South East communities, with less families in the region = less money = less services. Less people to vote politically and represent the area as it should be.

• Political interference - Regulations/Wages/Animal welfare/Food Safety

• Work within industry guidelines, do not restrict production through regulation

• More down time in complying with regulations which reduces the time spent on production.

• Costs involved with living in rural areas

• Cost involved with providing services in rural communities.

• Supplying food products to an ever increasingly sensitive, ill informed city based consumer.

• Declining interest by government in agriculture and ruralareas in general but favouritism to city areas.

• Working with Animal Welfare and special interest groups.

• There is too much division in farming groups, and no one group who represents the industry with political strength.

Funding & Staffing • Finding staff

• Funding

• Staying viable

• Loss of government extension services - how will the groups cover this loss & will this eventually be the same for research???

• Accessing reduced funding for research and extension

Communication & Attracting New Members • communication of events

• Incorporating younger operators with diverse ideas to get higher returns from the same areas of land

• keeping up to date

• Maintaining viable farming groups - both numbers and dollars

• Quality leadership.

Commodity Prices • Australian Meat Exporters who continue to compete with one another for market share, based

on the lowest price, ultimately at the cost of the producer.

• Price wars for meat products between Coles and Woolworths and the dominance of the two largest retailers in marketing Australian produce domestically.

• Continue to be price takers as there are no real alternatives.

• Avoiding monopolies

• Major company take-overs so that market competitiveness and input cost competition is lost.

• Prices

On Farm • Managing resistant weeds

• Using new and existing technology better

Succession • Finding Staff

• Declining rural services (health, education) leading to reduced ability to attract people (employees/service industries) to smaller rural towns.

• Financial buoyancy

• Farm labour

Climate • Seasonal Variability

• Handling climatic variability better

• Weather

13. Have you recommended any grant funding opportunities to your clients in the past 12 months?

If yes, then what have you recommended?

Federal • CTLAP x 3 – pasture renovation, and tree lines, perennial pasture establishment, claying (Federal

via Coorong/ Tatiara LAP)

• Bucks for Bush (Federal & SENRM Board Levy)

• Drought Assistance x 2

• Minimum Tillage Rebate

• Transitionery Farm Family Payments (TFFP)

• Climate Change Adjustment Program (CCAP)

SENRM Board NRM – partnerships for NRM

Industry Funding Industry Funding – industry fund not specified

16 What areas of the AgConnectSE website could be improved? • Just keep adding to it, it will develop over time

• Some activities are not registered on the website and would benefit by doing so

• All

• General awareness of it

20 An annual one-day forum for regional agronomists, retailers, consultants and advisors on South East sustainable agriculture issues (including technical speakers on specific issues, and discussions where consultants / advisors share their view points) has been suggested. Would you be prepared to attend such an event?

• Possibly - wouldn't attend every year. Not for a whole day!! Depends on the speakers. Days like this on specific issues already occur.

• Definitely

• Yes. ‘XXXXXXXXXX ‘has funding to arrange an annual pasture update, so keep in touch re partnering such an event early next year

• Yes

• Maybe depending on topics of interest, time of year

• Yes if relevant

• Would definitely consider such an event

• Yes, I have attended such a meeting and found it to be very informative. The problem with these meetings is that the same people attend these types of gatherings, the people who need to be there do not attend.

• Depending on the timing but yes

• Yes

• YES AND WOULD BE PREPARED TO DELIVER ON A SPECIFIC TOPIC

• Yes

• Depends on date/location and agenda. Give it a try.

• Yes

22 Do you think that there are enough career/ business opportunities to keep you working in your profession in the South East for the long term?

• Just. Commercial agronomy is over serviced right now and being de-valued.

• Yes x 5

• Yes most definitely!

• Yes, as with all businesses they have to continue to grow, so by developing and growing our clients businesses the spin off comes out of their increased production.

• Career opportunities are strong for myself but I believe the bigger issue is quality of education for my children, health services, career opportunities for partners and diversity of lifestyle opportunities are very limited in smaller regional towns.

• Yes but aim to move out of the industry over the next few years

• Maybe

• No, not at my age or even those much younger

25 Do you have any other comments that you would like to make in relation to agriculture in the South East?

• My succession planning involves mentoring other consultants

• There is probably an opportunity to showcase properties where traditional rural enterprises have taken a major restructure to achieve more profitable, sustainable enterprises.

• Well done for doing this!

• Farmers need more unity in relation to their markets

• Agriculture in the South East is sustainable, however there are many changes which need to take effect and government support for those involved in the industry is needed. The Government has led us into "free trade" agreements globally and our rural sector has to compete with subsidised products produced from other countries - My conclusion, there is no such thing as Free Trade it always comes at a cost. Unless we are on a level playing field, how are we expected to compete? No one in government seems to understand the implications and expect rural producers to just keep battling away. It is time to change this scenario. Our producers are innovative and world leaders in dry land farming, why not respect this and assist the rural sector in developing strategies which will see them stay on the land into the future. Perhaps if the food produced was kept away from the cities for 2 weeks the message might start to hit home.

• It is a real pity that funding for research centres such as struan has been slashed

• Agriculture will always be strong in the upper SE but mainatining strong vibrant rural communities to support the agricultural network and services is becoming a real issue.

• The Rural Report on ABC radio is a forum that could be so much better. It is now rather pathetic in both programming and content.

• ‘xxxxxx’ is a very competetive small family farm oriented local bussiness. We employ and sub-contract with almost 20 well trained determined contractors. We advertise, network and deal with NRM, DCGrant, Naracoorte Council, SAWater, ForestrySA, Vic Parks and probably 20 other farmers each season,including yellowpages, with a reasonably large business overdraft, we are struggling to survive...lots of fees, licences and fuel etc.

• SE is a great place to be involved in Agriculture,but we live in a"global world" with technology and marketing. We should not be insular in our thinking and should get out and see and hear

2012 – se sustainable ag report€¦ · sustainable ag report 2012 page 2 contents aim .....3

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