Mosaic Map: NRM funded projects
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Landholders choose farm table as learning setting
Dryland mixed farmers in the Benalla region are getting together over tea and scones on the family farm to learn more about sustainable production and conserving land and water resources.
In 2004 members of the Sheep Pen Creek Land Management Group and the Goomalibee Landcare Group, between Shepparton and Benalla, decided to investigate sustainable land management on their drought-affected mixed cropping and grazing enterprises.
But they wanted an alternative to formal learning environments.
So the President of the Sheep Pen Creek Land Management Group Jacci Campbell and the Secretary of the Goomalibee Landcare Group David Dore decided to form a 'farm table discussion group'.
The forum has proven a highly effective learning setting by allowing participants to discuss topics of their own choosing in familiar surroundings, with the support of a professional facilitator.
Funding
The farm table discussion group project received funding from the Australian and State Governments. Strong support has come from the Victorian Government's Department of Primary Industries and the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority.
Activities
Jacci said interest in the project was sparked by CSIRO research into sustainable land use and health in the Goulburn Broken catchment.
"The CSIRO's Heartlands initiative advocates changing the way we manage land to prevent problems such as dryland salinity and sustain commodity production," Jacci said.
Once a topic for discussion is decided, an expert is invited to give an overview to the group, while a facilitator will ensure the ensuing discussion is focused and outcome-oriented.
"The facilitator Janette Outram has been critical to the success of our project," Jacci said. "She ensures everyone can have their say."
The group has discussed topics like developing perennial pastures, drought feeding and drought management strategies, water issues for dryland farming, pasture weeds and succession planning.
Achievements
Jacci said the discussion group had attracted a healthy turn-out from the rural community, appealing to a wide range of people including those with a general interest in land management.
"The casual format is terrific because people feel comfortable, and they're able to have their questions answered by an expert," she said. "And they can learn from one another by talking about their own personal experiences."
More information
- Jacci Campbell, President, Sheep Pen Creek Land Management Group: (03) 5828 9274 or office@campbellfarms.com.au
- Trevor Verlin, Landcare Facilitator, Mid-Goulburn Broken region: 0439 040 955 or trevorv@iinet.net.au
- Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority
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