Interest in soils heath has never been higher within the TNQ Drought Hub region. The Terrain NRM Soil to Food conference at the Tolga Sunflower Farm proved to be an invaluable opportunity for Regional Soils Coordinator, Dhiraj Gajera to showcase his knowledge and connect with a wide range of experts and producers.
Over 120 participants spent two days networking and learning about soil health, soil biology, emerging industries and new business opportunities such as soil credits and land to market verification through presentations, workshops, field trips and a dinner under the stars. Dhiraj was invited to present his work within the hub and National Soils Strategy.
Practical demonstrations included a paddock walk through a farm that had stopped using fertilisers and pesticides where the owner noted “if we give to the soil, it will pay us back”, seeing compaction impacts on soil health and microbes and observing organic matter and moisture retention.
Internationally renowned soil scientist, Dr Christine Jones sharing her insights and Costa Georgiais as the MC were a highlight of the conference.
The TNQ Drought Hub was a Gold Sponsor of the conference.