Farming insight at Donald expo
Regional farmers will have an opportunity to access information about planning, based on everything from technology and business to the climate at an expo at Donald.
North Central and Wimmera catchment management authorities are joining farmers to present the sixth annual Future Farming Expo on Wednesday next week.
The expo will provide farmers and industry representatives with new ideas and the latest information on farm management through a line-up of keynote presenters, farmers and industry experts.
North Central CMA regional Landcare facilitator Darren Bain said the focus of this year’s expo was managing risk.
“Farmers, scientists and industry experts will be on hand to share their research, experience and ideas on managing risk, but also looking for opportunities to increase profit,” he said.
“One of the emerging challenges for farmers is insecticide resistance. Dr Siobhan de Little will show farmers what they can expect to be confronted with over the next few years.
“Dr de Little will show how correct pest identification and chemical choice will be critical for future management of this problem.”
Three district famers will discuss their farming business, providing information on current issues and opportunities within each of their enterprises.
A panel session will allow participants to ask farmers questions relevant to their enterprise.
“Concurrent sessions will also be a highlight again this year,” Mr Bain said.
“These are always popular segments and again participants will have a diverse range of topics from which to choose.”
The sessions will feature information on the latest climate forecasts, soil-moisture probes, technology on drones and virtual fencing, business management, succession planning and grain selling and marketing.
“Weather forecasts are always a hot topic with farmers and this year we have Dr Andrew Watkins from Bureau of Meteorology,” Mr Bain said.
“Dr Watkins has been Climate Prediction Services manager since 2012 and is responsible for delivering seasonal climate outlooks and determining current and future ENSO status.
“We are very excited with this year’s line-up and have tried to put a forum together that will give farmers looking to minimise risks and explore opportunities to reduce costs to take their businesses to the next level.”
Places at the expo are limited and bookings and RSVPS are essential. People can call 5448 7124 or email info@nccma.vic.gov.au by 5pm on Friday. The expo is free of charge.