Bowning Bookham Landcare’s Landcare on Farms group came together on a perfect autumn morning, with a clear focus: preparing for winter, sharing what’s working on-farm, and getting a head start on a biofertiliser culture for the upcoming Bugs & Brews Workshop.
Gathered around a warm fire, local landholders reconnected with familiar faces and welcomed new members into the fold. It quickly became clear that regardless of property size and individual operations, there are strong commonalities across the group, particularly in management goals, challenges, and a shared commitment to improving land health.
Conversations flowed easily, covering a wide range of seasonal observations and practical approaches. Landholders discussed livestock grazing patterns, noting shifts in what stock have been selectively grazing this year, particularly increased interest in species like dandelion. Dung beetle activity, pasture composition (including the dominance of phalaris), and the ongoing push to increase biodiversity were all key topics.
As always, winter planning was front of mind. Discussions around feed budgeting highlighted the different approaches being taken; what’s working, what’s being trialled, and what’s being reconsidered. Winter fodder crops were also part of the mix, alongside the inevitable but important conversations around markets, commodity prices and rainfall. Encouragingly, the outlook for grazing conditions was largely positive.
The group then headed out into the paddock to see firsthand what hosts Kylie and Oliver Kimpton have been implementing on their property. It was a valuable opportunity to observe groundcover levels and soil health at this critical time of year. Together, the group worked through simple methods to assess grazing days ahead and explored practical tools for better pasture management.
A quick demonstration of the Kiwi Tech electric fencing system was well received, showing how relatively simple, cost-effective solutions can be used to subdivide paddocks and improve grazing control.
The conversation then turned to biofertilisers and soil stimulants, with a focus on building a kefir-based culture in preparation for the upcoming workshop. Landholders shared their experiences and insights, reinforcing why these approaches are gaining traction, particularly in a time of rising input costs and a growing desire to work with natural systems to maximise productivity.
A strong theme throughout the day was that many on-farm challenges can be addressed through thoughtful grazing and soil health management. With the right approach, it’s possible to run highly productive and efficient systems that remain resilient across seasonal variability.
Beyond the technical knowledge, the day reinforced something just as important: the strength of community. Neighbours and fellow group members are a valuable source of knowledge, support and inspiration. Many left the day feeling re-energised and motivated by the shared experience.
The social side was not forgotten, with everyone enjoying a relaxed lunch catered by the local Barneys Café rounding out a day that was as much about connection as it was about learning.
The group is now looking ahead to the Bugs & Brews Workshop on the 15 May 2026, as well as the next Landcare on Farms meet-up on Friday 3 July in Bookham.
For more information or to get involved, contact Sarah, bblandcare@yan.org.au.
Written by Sarah McGrath, Bowning Bookham Lnadcare Coordinator
