Producers Explore Practical Genetics Tools to Boost Productivity and Resilience Key takeaway Producers saw firsthand how genetic tools and herd data can strengthen breeding decisions across northern systems, helping improve long-term performance and business resilience. Speakers emphasised the value of a one-page herd summary and a clear management calendar to
Cooktown Producers Learn Practical, Sustainable Growing Techniques at Climate Workshop Key takeaway Participants learned hands-on methods such as aquaponics, worm farming, composting and wicking beds, all using simple, locally available or repurposed materials to improve soil health and boost food security. The workshop showcased simple, scalable tools that can be
Gulf Workshop Drives Climate-Smart Agriculture by Building Better Soil Health Key takeaway The workshop provided hands-on learning and real-world techniques for better soil management, including ways to boost productivity and environmental outcomes Professor André Leu highlighted holistic methods that improve water retention, balance nutrients, and increase profitability while reducing reliance
Groundbreaking Trials Using Basalt to Boost Soil Health and Capture Carbon Australia is leading the way in sustainable agriculture with a new research initiative exploring the use of crushed basalt rock to improve soil health and sequester carbon as trials begin on rice and cotton farms. The project, led by
Culture meets code at the Indigenous Australian Datathon Key takeaway The Datathon showed that when cultural knowledge, community needs, and lived experience drive the design process the tech that comes out of it is actually useful, relevant, and more likely to stick. Events like this lift capability in First Nations
Building soil knowledge and climate resilience at Reef Catchments Annual Grazing Forum Key takeaway On the spot soil tests showed huge variation across farms. Understanding your fungal:bacterial ratio and microbial balance helps you tailor management to build healthier, more resilient soils. Soil organic matter and soil carbon drive productivity and
“Eat The Invaders” screening sparks conversation on biodiversity, resilience, and Indigenous land management Key takeaway The screening showed strong evidence that blending Indigenous ecological knowledge with western research approaches leads to smarter, more adaptive management at scale. Invasive species are a real and growing productivity risk in the north. Feral
North Queensland Avocado Industry & Hort Show highlights innovation, collaboration, and soil health Key takeaway Better soil data, soil monitoring, and improved soil biology underpin long-term productivity. National soil initiatives are building the data and support needed to manage land more sustainably. Projects like Enhanced Rock Weathering show how practical,
Collaboration at the Heart of Agricultural Technology + Extension Key takeaway The strongest message from APEN was that tools and solutions work better when producers, researchers, and extension practitioners co-design them together. Technology and AI can support better decisions but only when paired with human relationships. AI won’t replace extension.