In The Paddock

AI in Agriculture: Beyond the Paddock

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 11:07:05 +1000

In this episode we talk with Jonathan Richetti of the CSIRO, exploring how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming agriculture outside of the paddock. We explore how it is being used to enhance plant breeding, make highly accurate yield predictions and fertilizer recommendations as well as exploring the future of this technology.

Productive Sustainability

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 01:47:11 +1000

On this podcast we explore the role of productivity in sustainability, and why it's important to try and make existing farmland as productive possible in order to protect global biodiversity and lower emissions on per unit basis. We explore why measurement systems that measure emissions a total figure or on a per hectare or per acre basis distort the numbers and why concepts such as rewilding where agricultural land is removed from production and restored to a natural state may actually lead to increased emissions and less biodiversity.

Sharing the Risk with Invest in Farming

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 18:00:16 +1000

Today we're talking with Nicci from Invest in Farming Co-operative.

IIF (Invest in Farming Co-operative) is revolutionizing agricultural investment by connecting consumers directly with farmers through a user-friendly app. This platform allows individuals to invest in specific agricultural assets—such as a row of grapevines, a single cow, or a basket of oysters—without the need to own a farm. By preselling a portion of their produce, farmers gain immediate access to capital, enhancing cash flow and reducing reliance on traditional banking systems. Investors, in turn, can watch their investments grow and receive returns within a few months. Operating as a member-based co-operative, IIF fosters a closer connection between those who produce food and those who consume it, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike.

IIF - Invest in Farming Co-operative - A farm in your pocket

Chasing Moisture On The Go with Dave Finaly

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 07:14:58 +1000

Today we're talking with Dave Finlay from MPT Ag on their cutting-edge seeder design. The MTP Seeder is a cutting-edge agricultural implement designed to enhance planting efficiency and crop yields. Engineered for precision, it ensures uniform seed distribution, optimal depth placement, and consistent spacing, which are crucial for maximizing germination rates and promoting healthy plant development. Its robust construction and adaptability make it suitable for various soil types and farming conditions, offering farmers a reliable solution to modern planting challenges. By integrating advanced technology with practical design, the MTP Seeder stands as a testament to innovation in agricultural machinery, aiming to streamline operations and boost productivity for farmers worldwide.

Paraquat in Peril

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 08:52:19 +1000

In this episode we explore the APVMA's review of paraquat, what the APVMA can use in the their evaluation of a product and my concerns of what may be to come.

Farmer GPT: Out Of The Office and Into the Paddock

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:06:49 +1000

We're taking Chat GPT out of the office and into the paddock, identifying weeds in crops and writing spray recs. Once we are done in the crops we take him the yards to help with cows and later get out hands dirty by throwing spanners and working on machines.

Chat GPT Hits The Paddock

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 02:05:18 +1000

Join us in this exciting episode where we delve into the potential of using advanced AI technology, specifically Chat GPT, to revolutionize the field of agronomy. Our host provides a comprehensive summary of their recent discussion with Chat GPT, highlighting how this powerful tool can assist farmers and agronomists in making data-driven decisions for crop management and optimization.

From interpreting soil test results to crafting tailored fertiliser strategies, we explore practical applications that can enhance productivity and sustainability in agriculture. Discover how AI can help plan crop schedules, manage pest and weed control, and provide real-time advice based on the latest agricultural research.

Tune in to learn about:

The benefits of using Chat GPT for agronomy
Detailed analysis and recommendations for soil health and fertilisation
Effective weed and pest management strategies
Optimizing crop yields with tailored agronomic advice
Future prospects and innovations in AI-driven agriculture

Whether you're a seasoned agronomist, a farmer looking to boost your yields, or simply interested in the intersection of technology and agriculture, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of farming with AI.

Keywords: Agronomy, Chat GPT, AI in Agriculture, Soil Health, Fertiliser Strategy, Weed Management, Crop Optimization, Sustainable Farming, Agricultural Technology, Precision Agriculture.

Tune in to revolutionize your approach to agronomy and discover the future of farming with AI!

Finding Value with iinputs.com

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:00:34 +1000

This week we talk to Fraser from iinputs.com a new service that delivers value to growers through a simple farm tendering process, just simply create a account, put up a order and the have prices come to you. We talk about price transparency and the ways that growers can save on their supplies.

In Dodgy Company (The Lawyers Cut)

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 06:05:40 +1000

We have podcasting royalty on the show today with Matt and Andrew from Episode 3 and Ag Watchers. We talk about the future of carbon and biodiversity markets along with the role of sustainability and traceability programs in Ag Commodities.

Wednesday Tec Talk: The Gambler, A Review Of The Season

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 18:45:09 +1000

I'm not much of a punter, I don't go to races, bet on apps or head to the Casino but I did make make a large bet on this winter crop so lets see how it went. We'll go over what decisions I made correctly and what decisions I could have done better including sowing, variety selection, fertiliser use, weed control and harvest.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Forage Crops Are Crops

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 18:45:23 +1000

On this weeks Wednesday Tec Talk we talk about the importance of managing forage crops as crops, protecting soil moisture, maintain ground cover, nutrient cycling and setting up for next years success. In order to run a sustainable farming business you need to think about the cropping system as a whole cycle and not just the time when the crop is in the ground, this extends to forage crops as well.

Innovation Through The Generations: Paul Ryan From RyanNT

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 07:17:59 +1000

We talk with Paul Ryan from RyanNT about his family legacy in no-till farming innovation. His father Austin was a pioneer in no till farming and Paul has taken on the family business, building and developing it into what it is today. We had a a great conversation about how RyanNT developed, how Paul has built their unique technology and how it is now serving a range of clients across the world including regen farmers.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Roy Lance Spraying

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 19:00:23 +1000

In this weeks Wednesday Tec Talk I share some notes with on my conversation with Roy Lance Spraying about the differences in spraying between here in Australia and where he is in Othello, Washington State of the USA. There were some great differences between us in water rates, application and farming systems.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Top Tips for a Great Fallow

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:04:45 +1000

In this Wednesday Tec Talk, we talk about our Top Tips for A great fallow to make sure you can turn every drop of moisture into yield which makes money. We cover off on managing tillage and cultivation, the importance of groundcover, timing sprays and planting out the use of residual herbicides.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Nitrogen Use and Application in Tight Seasons

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 20:00:13 +1000

Nitrogen is essential to crop growth and crop health, it is needed for a sustainable cropping program. But how do you manage nitrogen application in a tight year, what will limit nitrogen uptake and what will help to get the most out of your N.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Updates

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 20:00:31 +1000

Just a short one to update on my life and agronomy, I've just left my previous role and started Encompass Ag solutions providing agronomic advice, contracting spraying and contract research.

Carbon Baselines with Ruminati

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 20:02:07 +1000

On todays podcast we talk with Will Onus and Bobby Miller from Ruminati on carbon baselines and how their new service allows you to easily measure your own on farm carbon baseline. We discuss why knowing emissions will only become more important into the future and how a better understanding of your emissions may help to prevent further regulation from government.

https://ruminati.com.au/

Wednesday Tec Talk: The Wheels Keep Turning

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 10:45:38 +1000

On today Wednesday Tec Talk we have a quick run down on what is going on in the season around the country along with what's going on around the farm at home.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Dry Sowing

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 19:56:52 +1000

So it hasn't rained and you still want to sow a crop, what do you do? On todays podcast we talk about dry sowing, the risks and how to manage them to help you get the best crop you can.

Andrew Coppin on Saving Time and Money With Farmbot

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 00:54:49 +1000

Today we're talking with Andrew Coppin CEO of Farmbot & Ranchbot as well as President of AusAgriTech. We talk about how Farmbot & Ranchbot and can save farmers time and money by keeping an eye on things remotely as well as their new pump control feature. We also discuss the role of agtech in Australia and how Australian agtech can be further developed and exported to the world.

For more check out:

www.Farmbot.com.au

https://ranch-bot.com/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Sowing Depth

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 19:58:15 +1000

Sowing depth is key to a nice even establishment, so we discuss a few factors around planter setup and sowing depth that will help you get the most out of your sowing.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Pre Emergent Herbicides

Tue, 23 May 2023 20:00:16 +1000

On todays Wednesday Tec Talk we discuss pre emergent herbicides, how they work, why you may want to use them and what you need to be aware of while using them.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Sorry I've been away, Linseed and Sowing Moisture

Wed, 17 May 2023 00:03:06 +1000

Sorry I've been AWOL but I've been sowing amongst other things and haven't done a pod for a little while but today we're talking about sowing moisture and the importance of conserving that moisture so it can be converted into yield.

Two Aussie Agros Talk About Clarkson's Farm Season 2 Episode 1

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 19:35:02 +1000

Today we're joined again by Marty to talk about Season 2 Episode 1 of Clarkson's Farm. We look at his grain production system, his operations at harvest and his new cattle enterprise. We also talk about nutrient cycling and fertiliser requirements.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Seed Treatments

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 02:18:31 +1000

A quick one today discussing the roles that various seed treatments can play in your cropping system including fungicides, insecticides and fertilisers.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Silicon in Cropping Systems

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 01:24:22 +1000

This week we are talking about the benefits of Silicon in the cropping system. Silicon is a non-essential plant nutrient but can still play a significant role in our farming system. While the mode of action is unknown there is growing evidence that silicon can act as a stress reducer in plants and possibly even help to reduce disease. In this podcast we look at a few things you may need to consider if you're going to incorporate silica into your cropping system.

Check out the link below for the recording of the GRDC Goondiwindi talk on Silicon

https://grdc.com.au/events/past-events/2023/february/grdc-grains-research-update-goondiwindi?videoId=6322581797112

Wednesday Tec Talk: Nitrogen Budgets

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 05:26:44 +1000

In todays podcast we're talking about nitrogen budgets as we come into a winter cropping season with very depleted soils after some heavy crops. So making sure you have enough nitrogen in the soil to feed the crop is essential.

For more on soil nitrogen budgeting check out the link to GRDC below

https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/grdc-update-papers/tab-content/grdc-update-papers/2016/02/budgeting-crop-nitrogen-n-supply-better-estimation-better-decisions

Wednesday Tec Talk: Conserving Moisture

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 13:00:29 +1000

On todays Wednesday Tec Talk we talk about conserving moisture in the fallow. Why its important to save your soil moisture and my three top tips for saving your soil moisture.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Research Updates

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 19:00:00 +1000

I missed last weeks Wednesday Tec Talk because I was away at the Goondiwindi GRDC update and you should be taking the time to go to research updates as well and find out how you can improve your farming business.

Growing Hemp With Rob Eccles

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 19:00:10 +1000

On todays podcast we talk to Rob Eccles about growing hemp. We cover the how and why of growing hemp making sure that you are ticking all the boxes to grow the best crop you can. We also cover some of the key pitfalls that new growers can fall into along with some of the myths around hemp. We'll cover fertiliser, irrigation, pests and crop rotation. Its a cracking episode so tune in and enjoy.

Check out the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance and the Australian Hemp Council

Wednesday Tec Talk: Soil Tests

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 23:56:46 +1000

Today we're talking soil testing and why its important to test your soil for nutrients regularly, to determine what is and isn't present and the impact that may have on your farming plans. Nutrition Budgets are as important as financial budgets and getting your nutrition budgets wrong can have have a big impact on your financial budgets, farm profitability and sustainability.

Rob Eccles - High Performance Pastures

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 19:00:52 +1000

This week we talk with independent agronomist Rob Eccles on High Performance Pastures and how they can be utilised to not only fill the winter feed gap but also increase stock turnover, increase weight gain, stocking rates and carcase quality. We cover everything including what is a high performance pasture, how to prepare for a high performance pasture, how to fertiliser a high performance pasture and how to effectively graze a high performance pasture.

Rob's Paper on High Performance Pastures

https://www.kalro.org/igc-irc2021congresskenya/proceedings/Session3Three/Paper%2069%20Short-term%20high-performance%20pastures%20in.pdf

Rob's Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/people/Rob-Eccles-Agronomy-Agribusiness-Services/100043255933850/

Wednesday Tec Talk: My Problem with the Farms of The Future Grant

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 19:00:23 +1000

The NSW Government has rolled out a cracking grant scheme called the Farms of of the Future Grant but has only opened it up to 11 Council Areas based on a report from KPMG and find this to be highly discriminatory. So listen in to find out why.

Aussie Agronomists Watch Clarkson's Farm

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 19:00:56 +1000

Once again we're flicking on the TV to watch Clarkson's farm and compare the differences between farming in Australia and the UK. This week we look at Clarkson's sheep enterprise and it compares to Australian systems.

Aussie Agronomists Watch Clarkson's Farm

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 19:00:01 +1000

Clarkson's Farm is a great show about modern farming and balancing production with social and environmental values while also battling the weather and trying to make a dollar. So I sit down with mate and fellow agronomist Marty Conroy to watch Clarkson's Farm and Compare the differences in farming between the UK and Australia.

Wednesday Tech Talk: Stop Spray Drift Now

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 19:00:00 +1000

Spray drift has been a major issue this year and it is something we need to wipe out. If the Chem isn’t in the paddock it’s not doing it’s job, so make sure you’re using the right nozzles in the the right conditions with the right product. Also wand.com.au will help you monitor and predict inversions.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Rolling into 2023

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 19:00:00 +1000

We’re back!!!! As we roll into 2023 we look at what we’re doing in the podcast world and what we’re doing on farm, what we need to do to prepare for the coming season and what we should be doing now.

Most Popular Episode of the Year: Boosting Productivity and Sustainability with AgriWebb

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 07:02:10 +1000

After a bit of radio silence we’re back on the airwaves with a repeat of our most popular episode of 2022! In this episode we talk to John Fargher, the co-founder & Chief revenue officer of Agriwebb about the role that Agtech can play in farming businesses to enhance production and profitability along with sustainability. We discuss the current state of livestock production in Australia, how we compare to other major players in the global beef industry and why we need to change to maintain our competitive edge, keeping markets open to Australian beef. Specifically we talk about role that Agriwebb software can play in simplifying daily record keeping while also making passing accreditation audits so much more simpler.To find out more about Agriwebb and what it has to offer or to start your 14 day free trial click the link below.https://www.agriwebb.com/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Test Weight

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 01:37:47 +1000

Today we talk about test weight and how it affects total yield

Wednesday Tec Talk: I’m Thinking of using Cover Crops.

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 19:00:00 +1000

With all the rain and wet weather lately we’ve had a bit of erosion to deal with and I think that strategic cover crops may be a way that we can help to deal with that issue.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Focus on Production

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 23:49:06 +1000

Quality is nice but yield is king, whether your growing grain, running livestock or farming fish quality is nice but we’re paid in kg and tons. So we need to focus on production and growing as product as we can with the resources we have.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Nozzles and Nozzle Selection

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 19:00:00 +1000

On todays podcast we’re talking nozzles and nozzle selection, looking at why you should change nozzles depending on the job you’re doing and the outcome you’re looking for.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Fusarium Head Blight

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 02:21:31 +1000

In todays Tec Talk we speak about Fusarium Head Blight, what it is, what does, how it affects your crop and how you can protect your crop.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Organic Carbon

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 23:37:35 +1000

On todays Wednesday tec talk we examine organic and what it means for your farming system. We discuss how you can make organic carbon work for to reduce your inputs and why you should increase it along with ways to increase organic carbon in your soils.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Measuring Pasture Growth

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 23:24:14 +1000

In todays tec talk we discuss measuring pasture biomass in a paddock. Measuring pasture biomass is essential for determining how much feed on offer is in a paddock and how much feed is available when you’re planning stocking rates and grazing rotations. We talk about pasture rulers and rising plate meters and how you can calibrate them to your pasture.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Avoiding Nitrogen Losses

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 21:37:19 +1000

There’s a lot of wet crops out there, Nitrogen is expensive and hard to come by so it’s incredibly important that you don’t waste it. Listen to todays podcast and find out how you can mitigate wasting nitrogen and farming in a more sustainable manner.

Wednesday Tec Talk: The Four Key Yield Drivers

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 09:01:19 +1000

On todays tec talk we talk the four key drivers of yield in a sustainable cropping system and how they need to be managed for their to achieve maximum yield.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Ag in Finland

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 20:00:00 +1000

After getting some high rankings in the Finnish podcasting charts I thought I’d look a bit into Agriculture in Finland and see what they farm in such a harsh climate.

Fly The Farm with Meg Kummerow & Drones in Ag

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 20:00:00 +1000

On todays podcast we talk to Meg Kummerow from Fly the Farm on the use of drones in Sustainable Agriculture. For more on Meg and Fly the Farm go to flythefarm.com.au

Wednesday Tec Talk: Sulphur

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 23:53:56 +1000

This week we’re talking about the fourth major macro nutrient which is Sulphur, what it is used for, what deficiencies look like and how Sulphur levels can be increased.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Potassium

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 11:20:55 +1000

Today we’re talking all this potassium, how it’s role in the plant and how deficiencies can be corrected

Wednesday Tec Talk: Farm Biosecurity

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 20:00:00 +1000

It’s a bit of a hot topic at the moment with Foot and Mouth, Lumpy Skin Disease and Varroa mite getting around the Asia Pacific so I thought I’d dive into it. Farm Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility whether you’re trying to stop pests and diseases entering the country or stop the movement of weeds as disease around your farm. We can only influence what we control so it’s important to make sure your farm biosecurity plan is up to date. If you don’t have a farm biosecurity plan go to farmbiosecurity.com.au for a free resource kit.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Free Living Nitrogen Fixation

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 20:00:16 +1000

Free Living Nitrogen Fixation (FLNF) is where organisms in the soil fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and make it plant available in the soil. Unlike rhizobia found in legumes these organisms aren't fixed to a plant and live freely in the soil with some producing more nitrogen than their legume equivalents. But unlike the rhizobia in legumes FLNF is mostly unknown but potentially has a large role to play in the farming system going forward as agriculture looks to reduce its carbon emissions and find more sustainable and regenerative methods for maintaining nitrogen in the farming system. Listen to todays Podcast to find out more about Free Living Nitrogen Fixation, how it can benefit you and how you can encourage it in your paddocks.

Articles Mentioned in the Podcast

To Fix or Not To Fix: Controls on Free-Living Nitrogen-Fixation in the Rhizosphere

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330483677_To_Fix_or_Not_To_Fix_Controls_on_Free-Living_Nitrogen-Fixation_in_the_Rhizosphere

Nitrogen Fixation in Cereals

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6095057/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Phosphorus

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 14:41:46 +1000

In this tec talk we discuss the role that phosphorus plays in our farming systems. We look at what it does, when it’s needed, where to test for it and how to apply it in order for us to keep farming in a sustainable manner.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Nitrogen

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 06:50:55 +1000

Today we’re going back to basics and discussing the role of nitrogen in the farming system. Why nitrogen is important for a sustainable farm, how to check if it’s needed and where to get it is needed.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Aerial Sowing and Sowing Rates

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 01:19:12 +1000

This week we touch briefly on aerial sowing with a couple of things to look out for. Along with sowing rates and making sure you’re actually sowing the right amount of seeds per metre in your paddock.

Subtropical Pastures with Bob Freebairn

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 20:00:00 +1000

We interview Bob Freebairn live in the paddock to discuss subtropical pastures and how they work in modern, sustainable and highly productive grazing system. We talk about the value of species selection and how to get your legumes working for you.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Water Rates

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 20:00:00 +1000

This week we look at water rates and the effect they play on the quality of a spray job.

Wednesday Tec Talk: EPR’s

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 06:01:37 +1000

Today we’re talking EPR’s or End Point Royalties, what they are and why they need to paid. As growers we benefit a lot from new varieties and plant breeding and that’s what EPRs fund so it’s important that they’re paid.

Trofim Lysenko, The Worlds Worst Agro - A Cocky's History Lesson

Mon, 30 May 2022 09:17:37 +1000

Trofim Lysenko was a soviet scientist who mixed politics with his pseudo-scientific ideas leading to deaths to the deaths of 10's of millions through starvation from famine. He also managed to single handily set back the soviet scientific community in the field of biology by over half a centaury through the suppression of people and their competing ideas. He is the primary cause for many of great famines in the Soviet Union as well as the Great Chinese Famine.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Liquid Fertiliser

Wed, 25 May 2022 08:21:30 +1000

On todays Wednesday Tec Talk we talk liquid fertilisers, why you might use them and what advantages they can have in your cropping system, helping to boost your productivity, profitability and sustainability.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Varieties and Planting Windows

Thu, 19 May 2022 00:08:20 +1000

As every thing gets pushed later keep an eye on your varieties and planting windows so you don’t loose yield potential in the back end

Hemp, An Emerging Industry. A Interview with Tim Schmidt

Fri, 13 May 2022 20:00:30 +1000

Hemp is an emerging industry in Australia with hectares under crop and consumption of hemp products increasing year on year. We interview Tim Schmidt, mixed farmer, Hemp grower, and President of the Australian Hemp Council. We have a detailed conversation about growing hemp, its uses, and where the opportunities are for the industry, along with what needs to be done to get the industry moving.

Its a great detailed interview you will enjoy.

To try some hemp products head to The Tassie Hemp Shop and to learn more about the industry check out The Australian Hemp Council and to see the harvester in action click here

Wednesday No Tec Talk: Jon Wright, Blue - E Cattle Stud

Tue, 10 May 2022 20:00:00 +1000

I’m crook as a dog this week so we’re rerunning my interview with Jon Wright from the Blue-E cattle stud we’re we discuss enhancing production and reduce emissions through selecting cattle for better feed efficiency.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Hurry Up and Wait

Tue, 03 May 2022 20:02:00 +1000

Hurry up and Wait, be prepared and be patient so when things are finally right to go you can go and you make the most of a situation while conditions are right

The Great Grain Robbery of 1972 - A Cocky’s History Lesson

Sat, 30 Apr 2022 01:52:09 +1000

In 1972 a trade delegation from the USSR went to the USA looking to buy just enough grain to top up their stocks and feed their livestock. By the time the deals were done they left with 10 million tons of grain and the global grain markets flying out of control.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Compromise in Farming

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 07:20:51 +1000

Life is full of compromises and farming is no different, if anything there’s probably more compromises in farming. So when you’re making a compromise are you making the least bad decision or are you just looking for a easy way out?

Wednesday (not so) Tec Talk: Ag Politics and Policy Making

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 20:00:00 +1000

With a election coming up I thought I’d have a have a quick discussion about Ag Politics and policy making. How Ag policy is formed, how groups like NSW Farmers and the NFF work along with why it’s important to have a united voice.

Bonus: Ukraine Grain Aide

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 23:24:01 +1000

Grain Producers Australia have set up a NGR number for farmers to donate grain to in support of Ukraine. The Grower Delivery Card in the NGR is numbered 1500 4442 and registered to GPA

Wednesday Tec Talk: MRL’s

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:25:16 +1000

MRL’s and Withholding periods are part of all sectors of agriculture, whether you’re in grains, horticulture or livestock following withholding periods and not breaching MRL’s are essential to your business. So listen in to find out what they are and why it’s important not to breach them.

Boosting Production and Sustainability Through Agtech with John Fargher - Agriwebb

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 20:00:00 +1000

On todays podcast we talk to John Fargher, the co-founder & Chief revenue officer of Agriwebb about the role that Agtech can play in farming businesses to enhance production and profitability along with sustainability. We discuss the current state of livestock production in Australia, how we compare to other major players in the global beef industry and why we need to change to maintain our competitive edge, keeping markets open to Australian beef. Specifically we talk about role that Agriwebb software can play in simplifying daily record keeping while also making passing accreditation audits so much more simpler.

To find out more about Agriwebb and what it has to offer or to start your 14 day free trial click the link below.

https://www.agriwebb.com/

Wednesday Tec Talk: War and Wheat

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 20:00:00 +1000

The price is pretty good but the global price is much better. So why aren’t we getting these even better prices? In todays tec talk we have a quick overview into what is driving global prices and why the price of wheat in Australia is so far below the global price.

Wednesday Tec Talk: The Importance of Timing

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 19:00:00 +1000

Good timing is essential in any cropping operation but is particularly important in short season crops like Mungbeans. So tune in to why I think you need to place more importance on getting jobs done quickly but properly on farm.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Peptides in Pesticides

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 19:00:00 +1000

We’ve all heard of peptides but that’s because they end up in sporting scandals. What most don’t know is that these peptides are the future of pesticide technology due to their safe and effective technology. Listen in to find out more.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Making your biggest gains

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 01:48:57 +1000

It’s your worst paddocks they can give you the biggest gains so tune in to think about where you can make your biggest improvements

Wednesday Tec Talk: Mixing Chemistry and Modes of Action

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 20:00:00 +1000

Why it’s sometimes better to pay more and use multiple products instead of only applying one product at a higher rate and saving a dollar.

Wednesday Tec Talk: New Herbicide Modes of Action Classification

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 20:00:00 +1000

Croplife Australia has an over they’ll be changing from a lettered MOA classification system to a numbered one. So what does that mean for you as a grower/agronomist?

Wednesday Tec Talk: Fungicides and Mode of Action

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 00:38:25 +1000

Just like with your herbicides and insecticides the continual use of certain fungicides can cause resistance to develop and break that group. It is essential that fungicides are rotated and mixed up to prevent resistance

Thanks for Listening

Sat, 17 Jul 2021 22:00:00 +1000

Just a short message to say thank you for your continued support

Wednesday Tec Talk: Waterlogged

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 04:40:22 +1000

Massive rain events around the country a lot of growers are wondering what they can do to reduce water logging on their farm and how they can pick their crop back up out of water logging

Wednesday Tec Talk: Grazing Strategy

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 09:36:27 +1000

Livestock are headers harvesting your grass and converting it into meat. If your headers aren’t functioning well you’re missing out on yield potential. How do you set up your place for the best grazing system

Wednesday Tec Talk: Harvest Storage and Planning

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 01:49:25 +1000

With crops up it’s time to think about storage, my most expensive mistake was not having on farm on storage last year and here’s why

Wednesday Tec Talk: Ryegrass, but not what you think this is about

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 20:00:00 +1000

Ryegrass is often seen as a problem if your west of the great divide but can we use that as a feed source for sheep and cattle and should we be sowing it?

Wednesday Tec Talk: Inversion Drift

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 00:43:45 +1000

With sowing underway there have been multiple reports of drift from all over the country. Most of this looks to be inversion drift so today we’ll look at inversion drift, what it is and how it can be avoided.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Residuals and Plantbacks

Thu, 13 May 2021 05:00:31 +1000

Herbicide residuals can be very effective in long term weed control but they can also cause you problems so tune into today’s podcast to find out what you can do to check and manage your residuals

Wednesday Tec Talk: Pre Emergent Herbicides.

Tue, 04 May 2021 22:51:51 +1000

Pre Emergent Herbicides can be a valuable tool in a farms weed management system. Tune in today to discuss what they are and how they can be used in your system

Wednesday Tec Talk: Why You Need to Inoculate your Legumes

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 21:04:55 +1000

Legumes won’t fix Nitrogen unless they are inoculated with rhizobia bacteria so it’s essential that this step is done right.

Why I Haven’t Been Posting

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 07:21:26 +1000

Bit of an apology as to why I haven’t been posting any content anywhere

Wednesday Tec Talk: The Importance of Phosphorus

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 22:43:57 +1000

Phosphorus is one of the key macro nutrients a plant requires. Listen to today’s tec talk to find out why it’s important and how to manage it.

Wednesday Tec Talk: The Importance of Waiting

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 23:06:21 +1000

Sometimes if a job doesn’t look like it’s worked or plants haven’t come up you leave it for a week or two and just need see what happens

Wednesday Tec Talk: Mice and Sowing

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 21:34:12 +1000

Mice are a problem that can kill a crop before it germinates. Check out today’s podcast to see what you can do.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Data Loggers and Managing Frost Risk

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 19:00:00 +1000

Frost is a ever present danger in farm, a bad cold snap at the wrong time can ruin a crop but heat at the other end can strip yield without you noticing it. To manage that risk there’s a range of tools you can use including data loggers and climate apps. For more on how to use these tools so you can hit your yield potential check out today’s podcast.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Sowing Rate

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 19:00:00 +1000

Sowing is one of the most important operations in farming so why are we so careless with our sowing rate? To get the best result we should be targeting plants per metre but sow at kg/ha regardless of seed size. Listen to today’s podcast to find out how you can change that.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Jar Tests

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 19:00:00 +1000

A jar test is where you batch up chemical mixture in a jar to test its physical compatibility before you batch it up in your spray rig. They help you to identify brews that will result in product falling out of suspension and blocking your nozzles, filters and lines. For more check out the video on my “In The Paddock” YouTube channel.

Jar Test on Youtube

https://youtu.be/XVMCCXChlgE

Wednesday Tec Talk: Soil Testing

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 09:42:12 +1000

On today’s podcast we talk about soil testing and why it’s important to your farming system.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Mixing Order

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 19:00:00 +1000

Mixing chemicals is the wrong order is one of the simplest ways to cause issues for yourself when spraying. Tune into the Wednesday Tec Talk to find out the right order and avoid having issues on your farm. Please note to always seek your own independent advice before acting on what you’ve heard here and be aware that not all chemicals will mix with each other.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Adjuvants

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 20:15:46 +1000

Adjuvants can make or break a spray mix, so how do you may sure that you’re adding the right one to the sprays that’s you’re doing on your farm? Listen to today’s Tec talk for a basic overview of what adjuvants are and what they can do in your mix. For more check out the Adjuvant book by GRDC linked to here https://grdc.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/384519/10562-GRDC-Adjuvants-guide-LQ.pdf?utm_source=website&utm_medium=download_button&utm_campaign=pdf_download&utm_term=National&utm_content=Adjuvants%20Booklet

Wednesday Tec Talk: Double Cropping

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 19:00:00 +1000

We’re back up and running for 2021 after a short Christmas break. Given all the rain that has fallen over the NW it looks like there’s a fair bit of double Cropping going on so on today’s podcast we’re talking about double cropping and what you should consider when double cropping. Done right it can be great option in a sustainable farming system, but done wrong it can cost a heap of time and money.

Back On The Air

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 19:42:01 +1000

Just a quick note to let you know the Wednesday Tec Talk will be back this week and podcasts resuming as normal.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Fallow Weed Control

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 18:00:00 +1000

In dryland farming we are in the business of storing moisture and converting it into grain. The best way to do this is through running a sustainable zero till farming system where weeds are dealt with and stubble is retained.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Residuals

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 07:36:19 +1000

Residual Herbicides are useful tool is a dynamic and sustainable cropping system allowing you to take care of problem weeds before they become a problem.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Stubble Cover

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 21:08:19 +1000

A bit of a rambling podcast with poor audio quality to thanks to a nation wide satellite internet outage. But we’re talking stubble cover and it’s importance in the Australian farming system

Harvest Hiatus

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 02:39:38 +1000

Just a quick heads up that the podcast will be on pause for the next few weeks as harvest gets underway. But we’ll be back up and running once harvest is over

Wednesday Tec Talk: Grain Storage

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 19:00:00 +1000

With harvest kicking off around the country we're talking grain storage and grain storage options so your can keep your grain in top condition for sale, stock or sowing. In todays WTT we cover off Silo and Silo Bags, Fumigation of grain and seed treatment to ensure your farm keeps its grain clean. We also talk about the importance of keeping your site clean and preventing an infection of pests before they occur.

If you like todays Podcast please subscribe and share it with a mate.

Wednesday Tec Talk: A Career in Agronomy

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 20:00:00 +1000

Today we're answering the most common questions I get asked "What do you do in agronomy?", "Do I need to go to uni?", "What's the pay like?" and "will I get training?". So if a career in agronomy interests you or you just want to know what a agronomist does and how it relates to the farmer and farming check out todays podcast.

Jon Wright: Blue-E Cattle Stud

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 20:00:00 +1000

Today we speak to Jon Wright from the Blue-E cattle stud in Woodstock NSW, the stud breeds Angus-Shorthorn Crosses with a strong focus on increasing livestock feed efficiency. We talk about why increasing feed efficiency is important and the benefits that it can provide producers with at a farm level along with the benefits it can provide the nation through reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We also talk about Jon's grazing strategy, how he uses the data he collects on farm and the decisions he makes using that data. Finally we also talk about the impact of climate change from a marketing and market access perspective and how what we as farmers do in relation to climate change and carbon management will affect what markets we can sell into.

For more Click on the Link Below to check out the Blue-E Website

https://bluee.net.au/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Farm Biosecurity

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 20:00:00 +1000

On today's Wednesday Tec Talk we talk about farm biosecurity, why its important, how it impacts you and some simple principals you can undertake to make sure that Australia maintains its clean green reputation and more importantly ensure that your farm and business remain free of pests and diseases.

A Response to Kiss The Ground

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 20:00:00 +1000

Over the long weekend I watched two shows of TV one was Australian Story where they focused on the Monaro farmer Charles Massey and his journey to regenerative agriculture and the was Kiss The Ground on Netflix which looked mainly at farming in the USA and what makes sustainable and regenerative agriculture. This is my reply to those shows, what makes a sustainable farmer? and is that different to a regenerative farmer? In my opinion 99% of Australian farmers run zero till direct drill cropping systems and rotate or cell graze their stock, do these practices make us regenerative farmers, sustainable farmers or just flat pack stock standard regular farmers?

Some points I thought were valid, some were antagonistic but for the most part I thought we doing these things already.

Have a listen and let me know your thoughts

Wednesday Tec Talk: Fall Army Worm

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 20:00:00 +1000

By Listener request we talk about Fall Army Worm, its one of the new and emerging threats to agriculture and sustainable farming in Australia. Since its arrival in January 2020 its settled in and made it clear that its here to stay. So we talk about what this invasive pest is, where it lives, what crops it likes and how to manage it. For more including a identification guide click on the links below and remember if you spot this pest notify your local department of Ag.

GRDC Fall Army Worm

Department of Agriculture

Tyne Vs Disc Seeders

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 02:26:03 +1000

Today's short podcast is on Tyne Vs Disc Seeders and trying to determine what will work best in your farming system. We cover how a seeder interacts with the use of pre emergent herbicides, the effect of stubble or pasture and how a furrow might benefit you.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Grubs

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 21:00:00 +1000

Carrying on from a Wednesday Tec Talk on Mice we now look at grubs and what they can do to crops. We're currently seeing them in canola, faba beans, chickpeas and lupins, they have the ability to do massive damage to crops but their are things we can do to protect our crops from them. So we talk about what these grubs are, how we find them and then how we deal with them.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Soil Biology

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Soil Biology is not a very well understood area of modern agriculture but a lot of time is spent talking about biology, particularly in organic and regenerative agricultural circles. However good soil biology is essential to farming and agriculture no matter what industry you're in so today we're taking a look at what soil biology is, why its important and what can be done to improve it.

For a basic way to test your soil biology check out the link below and "Soil Your Undies!!!"

https://cottoninfo.com.au/soilyourundies

Drones in Ag with Meg Kummerow

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 21:00:00 +1000

Today we talk to Meg Kummerow from Fly The Farm about the role of drones in agriculture, we discuss who's using this technology and why. Drones are playing a larger role in farming across both the cropping and livestock industries filling various rolls including crop scouting, mustering, NDVI, spraying and more. We also touch the legislation around operating a drone in Australia and where Meg believes drone technology is going.

If you'd like to know more about drones in ag or are interested in getting a drone please check out Meg's website "Fly The Farm"

https://www.flythefarm.com.au/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Beneficial Insects

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 20:00:00 +1000

Today's Wednesday Tec Talk comes as a listener suggestion and we talk IPM or Integrated Pest Management and beneficial insects. We talk about the types of insects in farming, what a beneficial insect is and why farmers should be trying to promote beneficials in their farming and agricultural systems. We also briefly touch on GM and how genetically modified crops have allowed farmers to use less pesticides and promote greater insect diversity.

Thank You 1000 Listens

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 21:00:00 +1000

Thank you everyone for the support we're just at 1000 listens and have people tuning in from all over the world.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Mice

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Mice have been giving us a hammering our crops and farms lately, attacking canola, wheat, barley and Faba Beans. So today we're talking about what to look for how check activity levels and what to do about them.

Wednesday Tec Talk: Crop Nutrition

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Having the right mix of nutrients is essential to having a healthy soil and having a healthy soil is essential to having sustainable and profitable farm regardless of whether you're into cropping, grazing or horticulture. So today we're talking crop nutrition, what it is, why its important and what can be done about it.

For more go to www.inthepaddockpodcast.com

Wednesday Tec Talk: Liquid vs Granular Fert

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Todays tec talk comes from a listener who asks whats the difference between liquid and granular synthetic fertiliser? So to answer that I've taken a brief look at the difference between liquid and granular sources of nitrogen along with the different sources of starter fertiliser.

If you would like a question answered just get in contact via our instagram page.

For more go to www.inthepaddockpodcast.com

Subtropical Grasses With Bob Freebairn

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 19:00:00 +1000

In this podcast we talk with Bob Freebairn about Subtropical Pastures, what they are, where they grow, their place in the farming system and how to establish them. For more information on Bob and his work check out his articles for below.Some of Bob's Articleshttps://www.theland.com.au/story/6244313/agronomists-top-tips-to-beat-the-drought/https://www.theland.com.au/story/6330206/acidic-light-soil-deemed-useless-no-more-thanks-to-research/https://www.theland.com.au/story/6583000/tropicals-prove-a-better-drought-pasture-in-all-regions/https://www.theland.com.au/story/6827864/pasture-to-boost-carbon/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Seed Treatments

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 19:00:00 +1000

In this weeks Wednesday Tec Talk we talk seed treatments, what they are any why they're used.

For more go to www.inthepaddockpodcast.com

Wednesday Tec Talk: Break Outs

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Break Outs are when weeds, disease or pests enter and take hold of a paddock. Listen to today's podcast to find out where they come from, how they start and how to deal with them.

For more go to www.inthepaddockpdcast.com

Robert Mackenzie: Macka's Beef

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Today we're interviewing Robert Mackenzie from Macka's Beef. Macka’s is a fifth generation family run cattle business. Operating from five properties around Gloucester and Port Stephens in NSW they breed Angus Cattle for both export and domestic consumption. We talk to Robert about how he makes sure he’s producing a top quality product and how he manages to delivery a consistent high quality product for export.

Check out Macka’s website

http://www.australianangusbeef.com.au/ and

Robert's LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-mackenzie-147a8576

The Smart Label Farm Online Article

https://www.farmonline.com.au/story/6745527/beef-blockchain-trial-breaks-new-ground/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Water Quality

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Good water quality is essential for a good spray. How do you know if its good and what should you look for?

For more go to www.inthepaddockpodcast.com or check out the links below

https://weedsmart.org.au/spray-well-correct-nozzles-adjuvants-and-water-rates/

https://grdc.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0041/387896/GRDC_FS_Spray-Water-Quality1902_screen.pdf?utm_source=website&utm_medium=download_button&utm_campaign=pdf_download&utm_term=National&utm_content=Spray%20water%20quality

Wednesday Tec Talk: Water Rates

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Water Rates can one of the simplest ways to increase the quality of spray job and in many situations it might be difference between a spray working or not. For more visit www.inthepaddockpodcast.com or check out the links below.

https://weedsmart.org.au/spray-well-correct-nozzles-adjuvants-and-water-rates/

Cover Crops, The Why and How

Sat, 25 Jul 2020 05:20:48 +1000

Cover crops have gained a lot of interest and popularity in the few years thanks to people like Gabe Brown and the regenerative agriculture community that have promoted them heavily. Trial work in Australia has shown them to be effective but more needs to be done to prove that they are a viable and effective long term option.

For More go to www.Inthepaddockpodcast.com

Wednesday Tec Talk: Yield Potential

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 19:00:00 +1000

In Dryland Farming our yield potential is set by how much rain we receive during the growing season, everything else we do reduces yield.To find out more read here: https://inthepaddockpodcast.com/?p=125

Wednesday Tec Talk: Hard to Kill Weeds

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 19:00:00 +1000

Hard to kill weeds are a fact of farming, whether they're naturally tolerant like Windmill Grass or Feathertop Rhodes or herbicide resistant like Ryegrass or MilkThistle. Here's why and how they should be controlled. Read more here: https://inthepaddockpodcast.com/blog-2/

How To Grow Wheat

Sat, 11 Jul 2020 01:05:59 +1000

Despite its name this is really guide to growing any crop as the key to success is being organised and being prepared, setup the nutrition, control your weeds and manage your pests.

For more please check out the link below.

https://inthepaddockpodcast.com/2020/07/11/how-to-grow-wheat/

Wednesday Tec Talk: Fungicides

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 19:00:00 +1000

The Wednesday Tec Talk is short weekly podcast on the technique nature of farming. Today's topic is fungicides, a very basic why, how and when.

An Introduction to the In The Paddock Podcast

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 12:30:28 +1000

The first of hopefully many podcasts on the business of farming and agriculture in Australia, where we'll look at how to run a sustainable and profitable farming business by discussing things like livestock management, cropping, soil nutrition, cover crops, weed management, herbicide resistance, new technology and many other topics.

Please subscribe for future episodes.