Rural women across the Murray region will have the opportunity to enhance their farming knowledge and build professional networks at an upcoming AgriWomen Connect workshop focused on sustainable agriculture practices and farm management.

The full-day workshop, scheduled for Thursday August 21, will bring together leading agricultural experts and local farmers at 'Oakville', the property of Marg and Colin Bull on Mabins Well Road, Conargo.

Running from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM, the event promises to deliver practical insights into some of the most pressing challenges facing modern Australian agriculture.

Addressing Critical Agricultural Challenges

The workshop addresses the growing need for sustainable farming practices in Australia's agricultural sector, where farmers are increasingly balancing productivity demands with environmental stewardship.

With climate variability and soil health concerns at the forefront of agricultural discourse, events like this provide crucial knowledge-sharing opportunities for rural communities.

"Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just starting out, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together," organisers noted.

Expert-Led Sessions Cover Farm-to-Business Spectrum

The workshop features a comprehensive programme led by specialists from across the agricultural sector:

Farm Business Management & Work-Life Balance will be presented by Carmen Quade from AgriFocused, addressing the often-overlooked aspect of maintaining personal wellbeing whilst managing agricultural enterprises.

Soil Health & Pit Demonstration represents the workshop's centrepiece, with Dr Susan Orgill, Chief Scientist at Impact Ag Australia, leading hands-on soil pit activities across two different paddocks.

This practical component allows participants to assess soil conditions firsthand and understand the direct relationship between soil health and farm productivity.

Understanding Your Natural Capital will be delivered by Brianna Hatty, Sustainable Livestock and Soil Officer for Mixed Farming Systems at Local Land Services, alongside Emily Wilson, Natural Capital Advisor with Murray Local Land Services.

This session reflects the growing recognition of environmental assets as integral components of farm business planning.

Livestock Health & Farm Productivity rounds out the programme, with District Veterinarian Katelyn Braine and Rebecca Stacey, Team Leader Agricultural Production at Murray Local Land Services, providing insights into maintaining healthy livestock as the foundation of productive farming operations.

Building Networks in Rural Communities

The AgriWomen Connect initiative recognises the vital role women play in Australian agriculture, both as primary operators and as key decision-makers in family farming enterprises.

These networking opportunities are particularly valuable in rural areas where geographical isolation can limit professional development opportunities.

The workshop format encourages peer-to-peer learning alongside expert presentations, fostering connections that often extend well beyond the event itself.

For many participants, these gatherings provide rare opportunities to discuss challenges and solutions with others facing similar circumstances.

Practical Focus for Real-World Application

The hands-on nature of the workshop, particularly the soil pit demonstrations, reflects current best practice in agricultural education.

Rather than purely theoretical presentations, participants will engage directly with the land, examining soil profiles and discussing management strategies specific to local conditions.

This practical approach ensures attendees leave with immediately applicable knowledge, from soil assessment techniques to livestock management strategies that can be implemented on their own properties.

The workshop is part of a broader movement towards sustainable farming practices that balance economic viability with environmental responsibility, a particularly relevant focus given Australia's variable climate conditions and the increasing emphasis on regenerative agriculture.

Registration and Participation

Interested participants are encouraged to RSVP to secure their places at what promises to be an informative and networking-rich day.

The event is suitable for women at all stages of their agricultural journey, from those new to farming to experienced operators looking to expand their knowledge base.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, 21 August 2025

Time: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM

Location: 'Oakville', 676 Mabins Well Road, Conargo

Hosts: Marg and Colin Bull

For more information and to register, contact the organisers through the AgriWomen Connect network  https://bit.ly/4lZF7T6