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Study an Online Agronomy Course Focusing on Fibre Crops

Fibre crops are incredibly versatile and many are experiencing rapid growth in Australia. Ideal for farmers, farm workers and consultants, our online agronomy course will give you insights into modern and traditional crops, including those that produce clothing, food and other materials.

In our Certificate of Agronomy – Fibre Crops you will learn about the fundamentals of how to grow successful fibre crops, including cotton, hemp, jute, flax and leaf, grass and fruit fibres. You will also study fibre processing, production systems, commercial viability, crop rotation and management principles, land suitability and the future of fibre crops.

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking an online agronomy course include:

Learning about fibre properties, uses and the types of fibre crops
Exploring commercial viability and assessing and characteristics and suitability
Gaining an understanding of broad acre farming and crop production considerations
Studying production systems, crop rotation and management and sustainable agriculture
Examining cotton production, conservation tillage and insects (aphids, armyworm, cotton bollworm)
Understanding cotton diseases, grey mildew disease, wilt diseases and asochyta blight
Attaining knowledge of alternaria leaf spot, viral diseases, cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD), cotton bunchy top disease and bacterial blight
Gaining insights pesticides and insecticides, the cotton life cycle and the types of cotton
Studying coloured cotton, textile dyeing, load bearing materials and harvesting
Examining cotton pickers, cotton strippers and the uses of cotton
Understanding the types and properties of jute and jute characteristics
Attaining knowledge of jute production and the climatic requirements for jute
Gaining insights into genetic yield improvements
Learning about harvesting, pest and diseases and uses and consumptions
Exploring hemp terminology, the types and properties of industrial hemp, cultivation and the countries of production
Gaining an understanding of hemp climate, soil fertility and water, pests and diseases and seed cost
Studying genetic modification, harvesting, uses and consumption and geotextiles
Examining fabric, carbon capture, phytoremediation and hempseed
Understanding building, paper and cannabidiol
Attaining knowledge of sunn hemp and kenaf (deccan hemp)
Gaining insights into sunn hemp- properties, cultivation, soil fertility, water, cost and phytoremediation
Learning about sunn hemp – pests and diseases, genetic modification, harvesting, retting and uses
Exploring sunn hemp – fibre, weed control, grazing, green manure and biofuel
Understanding flax – pests and diseases, genetic modification, harvesting and processing
Attaining knowledge of flax – uses and consumption, fabric, bio composites and industrial materials
Gaining insights into flax – paper, bioplastic and food
Learning about leaf and grass fibres, leaf fibres abaca and sisal, abaca
Exploring leaf and grass fibres – types and properties, production and cultivation, pests and diseases and harvesting and processing
Gaining an understanding of leaf and grass fibres – uses and consumption, sisal, cultivation, harvesting and processing and grass fibres – sugarcane and bamboo
Exploring fruit fibre (coir) — uses and consumption, cordage, horticulture and construction material
Gaining an understanding of fibre processing and the fibre future
Studying fibre quality and biological, dew, water, enzyme, chemical, mechanical and physical retting
Examining drying, fibre future, hybrid composites, geotextiles, the building industry and car interiors
Understanding genetic improvements and other sources of fibre crops

And more!

Case Study: Australian Cotton Industry

If you are interested in studying an online agronomy course, particularly in the area of cotton crops, you may be interested in a recent report released by the Australian Cotton Shippers Association. It has cited that 2022 is shaping up to be one of the largest production seasons in in the Australian cotton industry’s history.

Two seasons after the smallest Australian crop in recent memory due to the drought conditions, things are looking up! This is partly due to the widespread rainfall across the major irrigation system catchments and cotton producing regions over 2020 and 2021, which has resulted in water storages filling to near capacity in time for the planting of the 2022 crops.

Importantly, water allocations to irrigation license holders have also reflected the significant increases in government regulated water storages. In addition to widespread gains in stored water for irrigation, soil moisture level improvements will also encourage significant dryland plantings. In the lead-up to the commencement of the planting period, significant rain has also fallen across key dryland growing regions in Queensland.

Hence, a large increase in production is predicted in 2022 with current estimates from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABRES) forecasting a cotton production of up to 1,200,000 MT.

Growers are focussed on the sustainable production of high quality, contamination-free fibre. Ginners are concentrating on maintenance and upgrades in anticipation of a busy season, and warehouses and shippers are focussed on ensuring the smooth movement of bales to customers. It’s an incredibly exciting time for the Australian cotton industry!

Mega-trends Shaping Australian Agriculture

As you’ll discover in our online agronomy course, innovation is at the heart of any agricultural business. According to a report released by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment’s Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARES) in 2021, Australia’s food and fibre industries will be shaped by multiple interacting changes over the coming decades. These will occur at local, national and global scales and create challenges and opportunities for all farm businesses and food and fibre industries. They will also impact Australian landscapes, communities, lifestyles and the wider society and economy.

In order to better understand these evolving changes, the report updates previous CSIRO analysis, and sets out five global “megatrends” that will shape Australian life, and impact the Australian food and fibre industries to 2040 and beyond.

A megatrend is defined as a trajectory of change that will have profound implications across many areas of industry and society. Each megatrend occurs at the intersection of multiple specific trends and patterns of change, including economic, environmental, geopolitical, social and technological trends. Forecasted megatrends include:

Rapid growth

Rapid growth in emerging economies, particularly in Asia, will lift expectations, incomes and economic capacity. An expanded middle class — including three billion empowered customers — will demand higher quality and volumes of fibre and food, including more protein and diverse diets, with rising demand for ethics, health, provenance and sustainability.

Fractal politics

Deep shifts in cultural, economic and military power will continue to reshape the world, as the rise of multiple global powers erode previous certainties, notwithstanding increasing global integration. International trade and relations — along with relationships, food and fibre markets and supply chains — will all become more complex as nations assert their sovereignty, often in pursuit of populist appeal rather than mutual economic gains.

More from less

Relentless innovation drives improved productivity, and a more efficient use of energy, materials, labour, land and water. Maintaining competitive and profitable fibre and food enterprises will require ongoing change and innovation. But the benefits of change will not be shared evenly, often exacerbating existing pressures on regional communities and rural industries. However, improved productivity may benefit consumers (through lower prices) more than producers. Regional populations will also continue to drift from smaller towns and farms to capital cities and larger regional centres.

Cascading planetary risks

Accelerating changes in earth systems at all scales — from global to microbial — are creating

multiple challenges and risks and some opportunities. Agriculture is already impacted and is adapting. Climate and commodity prices will become more volatile, while emerging markets for carbon and ecosystem services could transform business models and landscapes.

Disruptive technologies

Advances in automation, digital technology, genetics and synthetics will disrupt and change how food and fibre products are made, marketed, and delivered. Production systems, supply chains and customer engagement will become more interconnected and agile, requiring new partnerships and skills and creating opportunities for regional communities and agricultural producers.

Positioning for the future

Australia is indeed lucky. Some call it a “lifestyle superpower” with vibrant communities, competitive industries and unique landscapes and environmental assets. But unearned advantage risks complacency, so each generation will need to create advantages to pass onto future generations.

Source:

2021, ABARES Insights, Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment ABARES

Gain a foundational understanding of how to farm fibre crops — including cotton, jute, hemp, flax and leaf, grass and fruit fibres — with an online agronomy course such as our Certificate of Agronomy – Fibre Crops.

Join an Expanding Industry With a Beef Cattle Farming Course

Cattle farmers today collectively run over 28 million animals over 200 million hectares, and the industry has changed a great deal over recent decades. Ideal for beef cattle producers, beef cattle managers and farm hands, this beef cattle farming course will give you the knowledge to develop your career prospects, better manage beef cattle or improve your farm operations.

The Certificate of Beef Cattle will give you insights into the role of beef cattle in agriculture, beef cattle breeds and production systems, and beef cattle diseases, nutrition and breeding. You will also study commercial herd, feed lot and stud herd management, and marketing and economics in the beef cattle industry.

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking a beef cattle farming course include:

Learning about beef cattle, beef cattle breeds and the role of beef cattle in agriculture
Exploring scientific classification, examples of breeds worldwide including British breeds – Angus, Hereford, South Devon, Sussex and Red Poll
Gaining an understanding of US developed beef breeds – Santa Gertrudis, American Brahman, Amerifax and Beefmaster
Studying European Beef breeds – Salers, Charolais, Simmental and Gelbvieh
Examining Australian Beef breeds – Braford, Beefmaster, Droughtmaster, Murray Grey and Australian Lowline
Understanding South African Beef Breeds – Salorn, Tswana, Tuli and Africkander
Attaining knowledge of breed selection considerations – horned vs poll, colour, gestation length, birth weight, mothering ability, post weaning growth, meat quality etc.
Gaining insights into various systems of production (extensive, intensive and semi-intensive) and how to choose a suitable system – considerations include size, climate, soils, transport, markets etc.
Learning about cattle handling facilities and materials used in cattle handling
Exploring cattle identification (branding, ear marking, tattooing, ear tags) and de-horning (chemical and mechanical methods)
Gaining an understanding of castrations, dips and dipping and injecting cattle
Studying beef cattle breeding including heritability, performance testing, progeny testing and selection, pure versus cross breeding, calving percentage and management factors to improve calving percentage
Gaining an understanding of vitamins, water for farm animals and protein
Studying commercial herd management, the breeding herd and production systems
Examining cow-calf herd and beef production systems using dairy stock
Understanding lot feeding – types of feedlot
Attaining knowledge of managing cattle in a feedlot
Gaining insights into feedlot records
Learning about pen feeding in South Africa
Exploring stud herd management
Gaining an understanding of calving time, feeding and fertility
Studying indicators of fertility in cows and bulls
Examining management, economics and marketing
Understanding profitability
Attaining knowledge of the factors affecting gross output and variable costs

And more!

Australia’s Beef Industry – Fast Facts

Here are some interesting beef cattle farming statistics published in 2020 in a report by Meat & Livestock Australia.

The domestic expenditure plus export value including live export of the Australian beef industry was approximately $20.2 billion in 2019.
There are over 45,000 agricultural businesses involved in the cattle industry.
There were over 24.7 million head of cattle in Australia as of June 2019.
There were over 11.7 million head of heifers and beef cows aged over a year in the 2018 to 2019 period.
Over 189,000 people are employed in the red meat industry, including in the areas of retail, processing and on-farm production.
In 2018 to 2019, Australia produced approximately 2.4 million tonnes of carcass weight (cwt) of beef and veal produced.
In 2019, three million grained cattle were marketed.
The gross value of Australian cattle and calf production in 2019 to 2020 was over $15 billion.
Cattle are estimated to have contributed 23 per cent of total farm value of $66.5 billion in 2019 to 2020.
Domestic expenditure on beef was approximately $7.8 billion in 2019.
Australians ate over 25 kilograms of beef per person in 2018 to 2019.
National cattle numbers as of June 2019 were 11.3 million in Queensland, 4 million in New South Wales, 3.6 million in Victoria, 2.1 million in the Northern Territory, 2 million in Western Australia, 1 million in South Australia and 0.7 million in Tasmania.
Australian beef and veal production figures in terms of percentage are Queensland (58 per cent), New South Wales (26 per cent), Victoria (seven per cent), Western Australia (five per cent) and South Australia (four per cent).
Australian lofted cattle turn-off in terms of percentages are Queensland (58 per cent), New South Wales (26 per cent), Victoria (seven per cent), Western Australia (five per cent) and South Australia (four per cent).
In 2019, Australia exported 76 per cent of its total beef and veal production.
The value of total beef and veal exports in 2019 was over $10.8 billion.
Australian live cattle exports were valued at $1.6 billion in 2018 to 2019 with 1.3 million exported.
Australia top five beef and veal exports are China (27 per cent), Japan (23 per cent), the US (21 per cent), South Korea (13 per cent) and Indonesia (five per cent).
Australian top live cattle exports (including dairy cattle) are Indonesia (52 per cent), Vietnam (21 per cent), China (12 per cent), Israel (six per cent) and Russia (three per cent).
Australia has approximately two per cent of the world’s cattle herd and is the second largest beef exporter in the world behind Brazil.

Cattle Breeds

The beef cattle industry has changed a great deal over recent decades. Quality beef is increasing in demand and the way beef is raised and marketed is continually changing. Anyone involved in beef cattle farming needs to be aware of changes in the industry, but also about the different cattle breeds.

Different breeds have different characteristics, and depending upon what the cattle will be used for, there will different benefits with different breeds. Today, cow breeds can be broken up into four main purpose types — beef (meat), dairy, draft, and multi-purpose (beef-draft, dairy-draft, beef-dairy and beef-dairy-draft).

Many of the older breeds were bred as duel-purpose or multi-purpose cattle. However, today most of the newer breeds are used for one purpose. And they are more efficient at this specific purpose, for example, beef cow breeds still produce milk but they are nowhere near as efficient as the dairy cow breeds. Some breeds also tolerate certain conditions better than others, while other breeds are more desirable because of the characteristics that are found in the milk or meat.

Most people assume that the naming of cattle species and breeds is a single system, which every cattle expert in the world will subscribe to. But this is not the case. There are, in fact, many different authorities around the world who manage the naming of cattle, and these different “experts” don’t always agree with each other.

Commercial breeders and farmers also manage a range of systems for classifying and registering breeds of cattle. These systems attempt to keep records of the parentage of progeny and assign names to breeds. These breed registries are at times also known as a “herd books” or “stud books”. They may be managed by government or industry bodies; and may or may not work together with other breed registries across regional or international borders. Sometimes the same breeds may end up being known by different names in different countries and sometimes new breeds are developed, but may not be formally registered.

Most developed countries tend to have widely-accepted authorities for registering breeds of cattle in their country, and as a result, the naming of breeds tends to be relatively consistent at least within that country. Sometimes a breed known by one name in one developed country though, may be known by a different name in another developed country. Despite seeming confusing, the use of both may be valid, depending upon the country you are using the name in. Good breed registries will commonly issue registration papers showing details of the animal’s parentage and there are over 800 credible breeds of cattle registered around the world.

Understand the principles and practices of beef cattle husbandry and be able to make informed decisions about the management requirements of beef cattle with a beef cattle farming course like our Certificate of Beef Cattle.

Go With The Flow With An Irrigation Course

Farms can prosper with limited water if irrigation is managed to ensure productivity, efficiency and sustainability. Our Certificate of Irrigation Management is ideal for farmers, irrigation managers, irrigation consultants and irrigation equipment suppliers and will teach you how to manage the design and operation of large-scale irrigation systems.

In this irrigation course, you will learn how to devise ways to schedule irrigation for large-scale operations, optimise water efficiency, manage the maintenance of irrigation systems, and formulate operation irrigation controllers for appropriate tasks.

You will also gain insights into the fertigation of plants through an irrigation system and evaluate the design of drainage and an extensive irrigation system.

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking an irrigation course include:

Learning about water management, humans and water, water and plant growth and how to maximise plant requirements
Exploring xeriscaping, waste wastage, evaporation and seeping and runoff and overspray
Gaining an understanding of recycling wastewater and wastewater treatment (reed beds)
Exploring regulated deficit irrigation, vine irrigation and efficient orchard irrigation
Gaining an understanding of drainage, surface drainage, subsurface drainage, the types of drains and rainfall
Studying the layout of drains, the distance between drainage pipes and grid, outlet and herringbone drains
Examining the depth of drains, laying drains and improving permeability during construction
Understanding cultivation, adding soil ameliorants and chemical treatments
Attaining knowledge of how to improve surface draining after construction, contingencies to deal with floods and sand slitting, aerating and subsoiling
Gaining insights into irrigation controllers, automatic controllers and computerised tap controllers
Learning about manual controllers, battery-powered solenoid valves, water volumes and duration and mechanical tap timers
Exploring electronic tap timers, residential controllers and rain dial controllers
Gaining an understanding of pumps, pressure systems and shallow well pumps
Studying pumping mechanisms, centrifugal pumps and when a centrifugal pump fails to operate
Attaining knowledge of alkalinity, physical and chemical impurities and temporary and permanent hardness
Gaining insights into corrosion, salinity, tastes, odours, biological impurities and algae
Learning about microorganisms, bacteriological impurities, treatments and remedies and the improvement of water quality from any source
Exploring fertigation, the advantages and disadvantages and the types
Gaining an understanding of proportional, quantitative, continuous and three-stage applications
Studying fertiliser injectors, pump injectors and electric and piston-activated pumps
Examining diaphragm-activated pumps, pressure differential injectors, suction injectors, fertiliser applications and plant nursery fertiliser injection techniques
Understanding system design evaluation, design considerations and water availability
Attaining knowledge of regulations, site details, source and quality of water and finances and labour requirements
Gaining insights into flood/surface irrigation, furrow irrigation, border check systems and hillside flooding
Learning about sprinkler irrigation, wind velocity and wetting patterns, trickle irrigation and microjet irrigation
Studying how to consult the local council on relevant by-laws and how to study the environment of the locality
Examining the resources available to do the job, client or owner preferences and priorities and types of systems
Understanding underground pipes and drainage

And more!

Early Irrigation Development in Australia

If you are interested in undertaking an irrigation course, it is worth knowing some of the history of major irrigation systems in Australia as they provide some invaluable insights.

The formative years of irrigation in Australia were in the 19th century and the major irrigation developments initially occurred in the Murray-Darling Basin region. Most of the early information flow to Australia from other countries was channelled through Victoria and the most significant events associated with the emergence of irrigation in Australia predominantly resulted from these efforts. Water allocation systems, irrigation design concept and administration machinery then spread into the other Australian colonies.

The early emphasis was on engineering technology, and advice was initially received from British engineers, who at this time was seen as the forefront of irrigation initiatives. Subsequently, Australian engineers such as McKinley and Home in NSW, Culceth, Derry and Gordon in Victoria, and Hugh Cotton and Arthur Cotton in Tasmania became leading figures during the formative stages.

Early Private Irrigation Schemes

The first instances of irrigation in Australia were in the form of initiatives by private individuals aimed at increasing farm production. In 1830, records show the first essays in irrigation, which were implemented by Governor Arthur. The scheme involved the reclamation of marshland along the Derwent Estuary and used tidal fluctuations to irrigate the land via a series of sluices.

In around 1885, a rudimentary dam was constructed in the Clyde River which permitted irrigation of the property “Raths”. This property has the longest continuous record of irrigation in Australia. Other schemes for irrigation commenced in the latter half of the nineteenth century. The first major diversion structure built for irrigation was the Goulburn Weir which was constructed from 1887 to 1891.

A major drought in Victoria from 1877 to 1884 prompted the chairman of a Royal Commission on water supply, Alfred Deakin, to visit the irrigation areas of California. There he met Canadians William and George Chaffey. In 1886, the Chaffey brothers visited Australia and selected a derelict sheep station covering 1,000 km² at Mildura as the site for their first irrigation settlement. They were also invited by the Premier of South Australia, John Downer, to commence a settlement at Renmark in South Australia in 1887.

In 1900, irrigation in the Murrumbidgee Valley began with the irrigation experiments of agricultural pioneer, Samuel McCaughey. This private scheme involved the construction of around 320 kilometres of channels to irrigate about 162 square kilometres of land. His success appears to have encouraged the New South Wales government to commence large scale irrigation.

Commonwealth Government Resources

Prior to the federation in 1901, each Australian Colony managed its own water resources. The first major instance of Commonwealth involvement in irrigation was through participation in the River Murray Waters Agreement. This was ratified in 1915 by the parliaments of the Australian Government, and the states of Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia. The agreement provided for the creation of the River Murray Commission to manage the operation of works and the distribution of waters to each state.

In 1910, the Dethridge Wheel was invented by John Dethridge who was then the commissioner of the Victorian State Rivers and Water Supply Commission. The wheel consisted of a drum around an axle with four spokes originating from each end of the axle. Eight v-shaped vanes were fixed to the outside of the drum which then would spin. This revolving wheel measured the flow of water from the irrigation supply channels into the farm channels and provided the basis upon which irrigation farmers were charged for water.

In 1907, the Victorian government invited American Elwood Mead to become chairman of the newly formed State Rivers and Water Supply Commission of Victoria. The Water Act of 1909 was passed despite the fierce opposition of large landowners.

In Western Australia, the state’s first controlled irrigation scheme, the Harvey Irrigation Scheme, was officially started in 1916. It was further developed during the latter part of the 1930s Depression, employing workers to dig and build the extensive irrigation channels in the district.

Snowy Mountain Scheme

Another one of the major irrigation projects that offers interesting insights into those doing an irrigation course is the Snowy Mountain Scheme. Since the 1830s, both the Murrumbidgee and Murray Rivers have been subject to development and control to meet irrigation and water supply needs. Conversely, the Snowy River had never been controlled in any way either for irrigation or the production of power.

A great proportion of its waters flowed into the sea and it has the highest source of any in Australia and was considered a means for developing hydro-electric power, supplementing the flow of the great inland rivers and increasing agricultural production in the Murrumbidgee and Murray Valleys.

Following World War II, the Government of New South Wales proposed that the flow of the Snowy River be diverted into the Murrumbidgee River for agricultural and irrigation purposes.

The Commonwealth Government, looking at the national implications of the proposals, initiated a meeting to discuss the use of the waters of the Snowy River. In 1946, the Commonwealth Government set up a committee to examine the question on the broadest possible basis. In a report submitted in November 1948, it suggested consideration of a far greater scheme than any previously put forward.

However, limitations in the Australian Constitution meant that the Commonwealth Government was limited in the powers it could exercise without the agreement of the states. Subsequently, it introduced legislation into the Federal Parliament and enacted the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Power Act 1949 that enabled the formation of the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Authority. Ten years later, the relevant states and territories introduced their own corresponding legislation, and in January 1959, the Snowy Mountains Agreement was reached between the commonwealth and the states. Construction of the Snowy Scheme officially began in October 1949 and took 25 years to build, being officially completed in 1974. The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme is one of the most complex integrated water and hydro-electric power schemes in the world and is listed as a “world-class civil engineering project” by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Gain the skills and knowledge necessary to manage and design an extensive irrigation system with an irrigation course such as our Certificate of Irrigation Management.

Balance Plant and Animal Life With a Permaculture Farming Course

Ideal for those who have completed a basic permaculture course, farmers looking to diversify the use of their land, or those who are passionate about self-sufficiency and sustainability, our Certificate of Animal Permaculture will teach you how to grow the right plants alongside the right animals in a balanced ecosystem.

In this permaculture farming course, you will learn how the benefits of permaculture systems can be maximised through design and cultural management decisions. You will gain insights into how a variety of animals can enhance a permaculture environment, including insects, bees, poultry, grazing animals like goats, sheep rabbits and pigs, and larger wildlife and livestock.

You will also study how to plan and prepare garden ‘zones’, the role of aquaculture production systems in permaculture, and the range of aquatic species suitable for permaculture systems.

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking a permaculture farming course include:

Learning about how to locate and integrate animals into a permaculture system
Exploring how to maintain a balance in the permaculture system
Gaining an understanding of intensive animals, small livestock and free-range animals
Studying the functions of animals in the system including birds in permaculture
Gaining insights into fodder trees
Examining the role of insects and other small animals
Understanding ecosystem components and ecological concepts
Learning about the web of life
Exploring insects and their classification, control and feeding habits
Studying snail farming and earthworm and red worms
Gaining insights into controlling pests, applied insect control and pollutants in the ecosystem
Examining the role of poultry in permaculture
Learning about chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese
Exploring how to hatch chicks
Studying poultry products and uses
Gaining insights into poultry forage and useful plant species
Understanding bees, bee hives, lids, supers, bases, excluders, and to bar hives (TBHs)
Learning about frames, foundations and spur wheel embedder
Exploring bee brushes, emlocks, bee smokers and hive tools
Studying how to locate a hive and buy an established hive
Gaining insights into swarms
Examining nucleus hives
Understanding grazing animals – sheep, goats, pigs and rabbits
Learning about the advantages and disadvantages of working off grass
Exploring paddock size, types of fencing, water supply, production systems and shelters
Studying environmental controls
Gaining insights into rearing and management systems
Understanding how to manage larger livestock and wildlife
Learning about deer, alpacas, horses, llamas and beef and dairy cattle
Exploring how to choose your dairy breed

And more!

13 Organisations Transforming Australia’s Food System

Australian businesses, government projects and non-profit organisations continue to transform our food systems. These include introducing new ways to engage with food, farmers and communities in need. From food rescue groups to permaculture farmingtraining institutes and courses, here are thirteen organisations working towards a more ethical, sustainable and equitable Australia … through food!

Aboriginal Carbon Foundation (AbCF)

The AbCF aims to build viable economies on Aboriginal lands through savanna fires, land and livestock management and carbon-storing farming practices. In 2018, it launched a Reducing Carbon Building Communities program to support rural farming and Indigenous communities.

Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR)

ACIAR encourages agricultural scientists to use their skills to benefit Australia and other developing countries. It focuses on agribusiness, crops, livestock, soil and horticulture to help farmers and policymakers deal with agricultural challenges.

Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance

This is a farmer-led advocacy network that strives for better preserved waterways and soils, enhanced livelihoods for farmers and food security for all Australians. It also campaigns to raise awareness on the importance of ethical and sustainable food systems.

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO)

This is Australia’s national science agency, and is uses research to solve issues on the planet to secure a better future for communities. This includes research to transform farming techniques, animal breeding and agricultural innovations and technologies. In 2019, it launched software combining machine learning, AI and geospatial technology to monitor and assess rural land to advise farmers on data ranging from rainfall to productivity.

Food Frontier

This organisation uses advocacy, consulting and research and development to support protein alternatives like cell-based and plant-based meats to Australian entrepreneurs, businesses, scientists, governments and communities.

Foodswell

Foodswell is a non-profit organisation that focuses on food insecurity in Australia. They design edible landscapes and other novel food strategies for remote and indigenous settlements across the country, and provide customised tools for healthy, affordable food.

OzHarvest

This is Australia’s leading food rescue organisation that transports food that businesses typically waste to over 1000 charities. It also delivers more than 100 million meals and saves 35,000 tons of food from landfill. Its education programs increase connectedness, enhance life skills and improve the nutrition and health of vulnerable communities.

Regrarians

Regenerative Agrarians work with farmers and producers to create profitable agricultural landscapes. The organisation has trained over 15,000 farmers in all aspects of regenerative farming from farming practices to design and business management.

SecondBite

SecondBite redistributes surplus fresh food from wholesalers, farmers, markets, caterers, supermarkets and events to community food programs that support people in need. It works with over 1300 community food programs and aims to erase the gap between the amount of food wasted and those that go hungry.

The Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC)

The ILC invests in agribusinesses that improve the lives of Indigenous Australians by supporting Indigenous landholders. It also considers itself an equity partner, creating connections between Indigenous groups, business partners and investors.

The Orana Foundation

This organisation recognises the richness of Indigenous food culture and the value of the relationship that Indigenous people have with the land. With a Native Australian Foods Database and an Innovation and Enterprise Hub that promotes research and development of Australian ingredients, it aims to explore new gastronomical trends and supports Indigenous communities to research and innovate in the food enterprise space.

Youth Food Movement Australia (YFM)

YFM aims to increase millennial food literacy levels and participation in the food system. Since 2011, it has delivered more than 40 projects and harnessed more than 60,000 volunteer hours to address food issues such as soil degradation, food waste and the ageing farming population. Their current program, Upstart, connects young people across Australia for project development and training to co-create community food projects.

Permaculture Research Institute

The Permaculture Research Center uses a demonstration site to conduct education and worldwide training programs. It strives to expand the knowledge and practices of sustainable agriculture using permaculture design by equipping people with the tools they need to serve their communities.

Tips for a Backyard Permaculture Garden

When it comes to backyard permaculture farming, it can take many forms. In essence, it is a practical approach to finding creative solutions to living a more sustainable life by reducing energy consumption, recycling waste, growing organic food, and creating habitats for the animals in our environment. Here are some features of a backyard permaculture garden.

Preparation

Observe and note the prevailing winds, winter and summer sun angles, any views you want to keep or screen out, and the degree of slope on your block. When you prepare a plan, you want to show access ways, vegetation and existing structures to create its framework. You then want to plant windbreaks to shield strong winds and shade out hot summer sun while allowing in warm winter light.

A Vege Garden

Pick a spot that gets good sun all year round. Ideally you want to allow for crop rotation and around a half a metre of access path between each bed. You’ll also need rich soil, so and blood and bone, organic mineral fertiliser and bentonite can assist with this. Polypipes can be used to drip line irrigation off. You should then continue to build the soil by adding generous layers of lucern, sheep manure, more blood and bone and then more sheep manure at regular intervals.

A Hen House

Chickens are a fantastic animal for a backyard permaculture garden (although check with your local council in terms of regulations). They are a great source of manure, clean up fallen fruit and weeds, and the best bit … convert food scraps to eggs! A permanent chicken house is vital for the safety and comfort of your chooks. It should have sunken barriers to keep the chickens in and hazards like dogs and snakes out. Wood-chip is a great option for litter that chickens can scratch around in. It is relatively cheap and when it needs replacing, it can go onto your compost heap.

Grey Water

Using grey water is an environmentally friendly thing to do, and is quite safe to use on watering plants and trees. This includes grey water from the laundry and bathroom, however not kitchen waste water. This is because it often contains a range of fats and greases which can damage the integrity of soil. There is also a risk of bacteria and diseases if it’s used on your veggie patch.

Compost

Compost bins are the ideal way of getting rid of kitchen scraps, but so are worms. Setting up a worm farm will also provide you their castings which you can turn into liquid feed which is a super-food for your garden! It’s a great example of the beneficial circular nature of permaculture farming.

Develop your ability to integrate animals and their resources – from insects and aquatic organisations to grazing animals and livestock – into a viable design with a permaculture farming course like our Certificate of Animal Permaculture.

Learn How to Farm Fish with Aquaculture Courses

Marine fish stocks across the world are increasingly under pressure, which provides ample opportunities and potential profits for those who undertake aquaculture courses. The term “mariculture” refers to a sub-culture of aquaculture that deals specifically with marine aquaculture. It is defined as the culture of marine organisms — both plants and animals — in an aquatic medium or environment which may be completely marine or a mix of sea water with varying degrees of fresh water.

Ideal for mariculture operators or anyone who works in an aquaculture production role, the Certificate of Marine Aquaculture will teach you the fundamentals of mariculture to enable you to set up a successful and sustainable business. In this aquaculture course, you will explore mariculture production systems and the factors — including diet and health issues — that need to be considered when choosing marine species for an aquaculture business.

You will also learn about the commercial production of fin fish, molluscs, crustaceans, aquatic algae and seaweeds, the role of marine invertebrates in mariculture, and the pharmaceutical uses of marine organisms.

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking aquaculture courses online include:

Learning about aquaculture production systems, their classifications and the purposes of mariculture
Exploring extensive production (Ep) and intensive production (Ip)
Studying open (off-shore and near-shore), semi-closed and closed systems (on shore)
Gaining insights into cage culture and cage design – floating flexible, floating rigid, semi-submersible and submersible
Examining hanging, long-line, vertical, bottom, stone, stake, net and umbrella culture
Understanding closed systems (CAS) -recirculating, raceways, and inland ponds
Learning about the economics of establishing a mariculture business
Exploring industry competition, economy of scale, site selection and the availability of leased and quotas
Studying water quality management, environmental impacts and food chain problems
Gaining insights into using wild broodstock and nutrient and chemical pollution
Understanding how pathogens spread, habitat effects, biotechnology and improving the genetic quality of fish
Learning about choosing marketable species and understanding your competition
Exploring common mariculture species and the availability of animals
Studying climate and water resources
Gaining insights into finance, operational scale, market demand and risk considerations
Understanding product, price and promotion
Learning about finfish including tuna, salmon, yellowtail, sea bass and bream
Exploring brood stock and seed supply of finfish
Studying grow out and water quality management of finfish
Gaining insights into crustaceans including prawns, crabs and lobsters
Exploring brood stock and seed supply of crustaceans
Studying grow out and water quality management of crustaceans
Gaining insights into molluscs and echinoderms including abalone, oysters, mussels, scallops, clams, sea urchins and sea cucumbers
Exploring brood stock and seed supply of molluscs and echinoderms
Studying grow out and water quality management of molluscs and echinoderms
Gaining insights into seaweeds and aquatic algae
Understanding brood stock and seed supply of aquatic algae
Learning about tanks, ponds and land, sea and vegetative cultivation systems
Exploring farming methods and cultivation involving a reproductive cycle
Studying Laminaria japonica, Porphyra, Undaria and Eucheuma seaweed
Gaining insights into the pharmaceutical value of marine organisms

And more!

Aquaculture in Australia

Aquaculture is one of Australia’s largest growing primary industries with over 240,000 tonnes of fish produced a year with aquaculture contributing to a third of this. So … a fantastic reason to undertake aquaculture courses! The aquaculture sector is managed under strict environmental guidelines, with most of the elements of regulation resting with the states and territories. The main aquaculture sectors are:

Marine finfish

This is an inshore and offshore sea cage-farming sector, which primarily operates in Tasmania and South Australia, although there are some farms in other states. Principle species grown are barramundi, mulloway, Atlantic salmon, southern bluefin tuna and yellowtail kingfish.

Operations typically involve the pre-dawn loading of vessels and the delivery of feed to the sea cages. A second run is undertaken in the afternoon or early evening. Key species harvested include:

Southern bluefin tuna. The aquaculture component of this sector involves the culturing of tuna in offshore sea pontoons that can be up to 25 kilometres out to sea. Before dawn, feed is loaded on modified fishing boats that travel to the pontoons.
Atlantic salmon. This industry is based in Tasmania. The aquaculture sector involves the collection of broodstock and the production of fingerlings for grow out in sea cages, which are located in offshore and inshore waters. A specialist fleet of vessels performs feeding and harvesting operations at sea.

Freshwater fish

There are many small to medium freshwater fish farms throughout Australia, growing a wide range of species including silver perch, jade perch, Murray cod and eels. Systems vary from pond and dam, to automatic and intensive tank rearing systems.

Crustaceans

Prawns. Farms are located in four Australian states — New South Wales, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland, however, the industry is largely based in Queensland’s tropical zones. Prawns are farmed in large-scale pond operations, which operate round the clock and every day of the year. The farms generally have their own hatchery and the whole operation involves hatching, growing, harvesting and processing in an integrated continual process operation.
Yabbies, marron and red claw. There are many small land-based crustacean farms in Australia. Yabbies are the most common and typically an incidental aquaculture operation to general land-based farming. Red claw farms are scattered throughout Australia but mostly located in New South Wales and Queensland and New South Wales. Marron farms operate mainly in South Australia and Western Australia and tend to be larger scale pond operations.

Shellfish

Abalone (land-based). These farms operate intensive grow out systems, and while a majority have integrated hatchery and grow-out operations, some rely on purchasing spat from dedicated hatcheries. Broodstock is regularly collected from the wild through diving operations and forms the basis of the genetic diversity.
Abalone (sea-based). Two types of marine abalone systems include sea cage technology and a special converted grow out vessel. Broodstock is sourced from the wild and juvenile abalone are grown in hatchery complexes. The stock is then transferred to special sea cages with unique grow out plates and the stock is managed and harvested on a continuous basis by groups of commercial divers.
Mussels. This is widespread industry across Australia with large-scale operations in South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania. Marine rope systems are used to grow the mussels. As mussels are filter feeders, farms rely upon natural feed including detritus, algae and bacteria rather than pellets or artificial diets. Harvesting involves the operation of specialised mussel–stripping machinery on purpose-built vessels.
Pacific oysters. This industry operates mostly in South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. The industry is a marine based industry (apart from the hatchery complexes) with most farms accessed by commercial vessels which are used to maintain the grow out sites and harvest the oysters. The industry operates seven days a week every week of the year. Operations are generally performed before dawn, through to sunset with some unloading, bagging operations extending the work hours into the evening.
Sydney rock oysters. Operating in Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia and Victoria, this industry farms a single oyster species — Saccostrea Glomerata — in a number of ocean and estuarine settings. Operations involve small vessels engaging in daily trips to the oyster beds for checking, sorting, grading and harvesting the oysters. Once ashore, the operations grade and clean the oysters and prepare them for dispatch to various market

Types of Mariculture

As you will learn in aquaculture courses, aquaculture in Australia is generally practiced using either salt or freshwater species under either intensive or extensive production. But what is the difference between the two?

Intensive Mariculture Production (Ip)

An intensive production system is managed to ensure optimum feeding regimes, water conditions and is important for high production. It requires a managed and well-designed production unit so feed, oxygenation, light intensity, water flow and quality, waste build-up and competition are efficiently controlled and improved. Reproduction can sometimes be initiated slightly out of season by manipulating oxygen, water temperatures and light intensity.

Raceways, pools or dams are typical units for intensive production. They are designed and constructed to offer as much control as possible, to improve any natural limitations and to circumvent problems. They also enable the farmer to exactly determine his marketable stocks and have them available whenever they are needed.

Extensive Mariculture Production (Ep)

An extensive production system involves the use of natural waters like rivers, oceans, dams, lakes, saltwater estuaries and various impoundments. It is a system where animals are stocked, allowed to spawn, and increase in size and number. Typically a simple stocking and harvesting routine is followed, although sometimes there will be some input in terms of fertilisation, water, feeding and/or protection.

The use of natural waters are usually large and have sufficient cover and food to support a large number of fish and allow them to grow reasonably quickly and to a marketable size. However, they will grow more slowly than fish that are force fed under intensive conditions. But a harvestable crop is generally less expensive to produce compared to those from an Intensive Production system because manpower needs are lower, water is available at little cost, and the degree of expertise required from the farmer is considerably less.

Learn to plan and manage the farming of a wide variety of marine life to enhance your aquaculture career, or even start your own business with aquaculture courses like our Certificate of Marine Aquaculture.

Organic Farming Course Enhances Sustainability

Organic farming is essentially farming without the addition of artificial chemicals, and demand for organic produce has boomed over recent years. Many retailers now devote significant shelf space to organic produce … because consumers are demanding it! But organic farming benefits producers as well. In fact, it can be more profitable than mainstream agriculture.

Ideal for consultants, farmers or hobby farmers, the Certificate of Organic Farming explores the benefits to the consumer and the environment and the viable economic gains of organic farming. In this organic farming course, you will learn about the history, scope and types of organic farming, and how to handle organic management issues, from marketing and promotion to certification and environmental concerns.

You will also discover integrated farm management systems for organic farming, including biodynamics, rotation design, waste management systems and how to manage weeds, pests, pasture, soil, livestock and crops.

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking an organic farming course include:

Learning about the nature, scope and history of organic farming
Exploring the types of organic farming
Gaining an understanding of integrated farm management systems
Studying rotation design
Gaining insights into cash crops
Examining how to manage waste
Understanding permaculture
Learning about polyculture
Exploring biodynamics
Studying organic management issues
Gaining insights into certification
Examining environmental concerns
Understanding marketing and PR
Learning about organic soil management and crop nutrition
Exploring composting
Studying mulching
Gaining insights into green manuring
Examining cover crops
Understanding organic fertilisers
Learning about weed management
Exploring how to select the appropriate techniques of control
Studying weed identification

And more!

Types of Organic Farming

As you’ll learn in our organic farming course, organic farming works with nature, rather than against it. It recognises that nature has many complex processes that interact to control diseases and weeds and regulate the growth of plants. Organic farmers don’t use any chemical herbicides at all, and all kinds of agricultural products are produced organically. These range from fruit, vegetables, dairy and meat to eggs, grains and fibres such as wool and cotton. Here are some of the most effective and widely used organic farming methods.

Poly-culture

When several different animals and/or plants are growing together, the nutrients used by one may be replenished by the activity of another, and the waste products of one will often be used by another. Some poly-culture options include:

Agro-forestry – This is where trees are grown in paddocks to provide shade for animals. Eventually, trees can be harvested and sold for timber, firewood or woodchip.
Animals grazing in orchards – Free-range poultry, sheep, cows and deer can all be grazed below nut or fruit trees. Farmers can also increase the efficiency of their land by diversifying harvestable product. They just need to ensure that the plants aren’t toxic to the animals and the animals don’t eat or destroy them. For example, poultry and pecans are both harvestable. The trees also provide shelter for birds and the birds eat insects and pests and fertilise the pecan trees.
Inter-row cropping – This involves establishing the principal crop in rows then planting another crop between them. For example, long-term fruit tree crops can be planted with vegetables between the rows.

Biodynamic Farming

Biodynamic farming views the farm as a “total” organism and attempts to develop a sustainable system where all of the components of the living system have a respected and proper place. Some of the principles include:

Understanding the interrelation of animal and plant production. For example, manure from animals feeds plants and plant growth feeds animals.
Considering the underlying cause of problems and attempting to deal with the causes rather than dealing with superficial ways of treating problems.
Produce is better quality when it is “in touch” with all aspects of a natural ecosystem.
Considering the available human skills and other resources that affect what is chosen to be grown.
Conservation and environmental awareness.
Soil quality is maintained by paying attention to fertility and soil life.
Maintaining botanical diversity leads to reduced problems.
Crop rotation is important.
Plant selection is vital, in particular ensuring the seed that has been chosen is well adapted to the site.
Moon planting is often considered as many growers believe better results can be achieved if consideration is given to lunar cycles.

Permaculture Systems

Permaculture is a system of agriculture based on perennial plant and animal species. The nine key guiding principles of permaculture design are:

Relative location – placing the components of a design in a position that achieves the desired relationship between them. Everything is connected to everything else.
Multiple functions – a designer must deal with several different components that influence a function, make distinct decisions about each of the components, and consider that every function is supported by many elements.
Multiple elements – a design must include many elements (like earth, plants, buildings and water) and every element should serve many functions.
Elevational planning – The design must be on a three-dimensional basis, with consideration given to it width, length and height and their energy impacts.
Biological resources – The priority is to use renewable biological resources (like wood for fuel) rather than non-renewable resources (like fossil fuels).
Energy recycling – Energy use should be minimised, waste energy harvested and the system should be designed to optimise the collection of energy by animals and plants.
Natural succession – Animal and plant life should always be enriched by ensuring new organisms emerge as old ones die.
Maximise edges – The edge of two different areas in a system has more things influencing it than other parts of the system.
Diversity – The design should be a poly-culture (a system where a greater number of species are growing together).

Crop Rotations

Crop rotation consists of growing different crops in succession in the same field, and it interrupts pest life cycles and keeps their populations in check. In crop rotation cycles, farmers can also sow crops that actually enrich the soil with nutrients, thereby reducing the need for chemical fertilisers.

Industry Certification

An important element you will learn about in our organic farming course is the area of certification. In Australia, an industry organisation must be accredited by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) before it can certify organic operations. There are seven organisations currently certified with AQIS.

National Association for Sustainable Agriculture, Australia (NASAA)

NASAA certifies producers from small and intermediate to extremely large operations throughout Australia. This includes over 500 operators involved in broadacre, horticulture, mixed farms and livestock. It is one of the few certification agencies worldwide to achieve IFOAM accreditation and is currently the only one in Australia to do so.

Australian Organic

Formerly known as the Biological Farmers of Australia (BF) which was formed in 1987, Australian Organic’s objective is to bring together processors and farmers who have a common interest in organic and bio-dynamic systems and production as a means of conserving resources and processing food without the use of synthesised chemicals.

Bio-Dynamic Research Institute (BDRI)

The Demeter trademark has been used in Australia since 1953 to symbolise produce produced using the biodynamic agricultural method. When a certain standard of biodynamic development has been established, farmers may apply to the Bio-Dynamic Research Institute to become certified users of the trademark.

Organic Herb Growers of Australia (OHGA)

The OHGA was established in 1986 to promote the growing and processing of herbs and herbal products. Its members include organic manufacturers, fruit and vegetable growers, mixed farmers and wild harvesters.

Organic Vignerons Association of Australia (OVAA)

The OVAA was established in 1992 following an increasing demand for organic wine, particularly from overseas. It was formed specifically to promote the growing of grapes organically and the production of wine from those grapes.

Organic Food Chain (OFC)

The OFC began through the cooperation of a small group of commercial organic farmers who wanted an organised, highly accountable system of product differentiation and organic accreditation. The OFC includes wholesalers, retailers, brokers, processors and organic farmers.

Tasmanian Organic-Dynamic Producers (TOP)

The TOP Co-operative was formed in the early 1990s in response to calls from Tasmania’s rural sector for a body to support and represent organic growers. Current grower members include producers of grains, dairy products, wine, herbs, fruit and vegetables.

Enhance your ability to create and market a successful agricultural enterprise with an organic farming course like our Certificate of Organic Farming.

Create a Greener Globe With a Sustainable Agriculture Course

Sustainability has become increasingly important in the agricultural sector, as it is no longer enough to be financially productive — environmental resources need to be robust for farms to survive. This course an ideal for anyone working in the agricultural industry, from farmers and farm services businesses to consultants and educators.

Our Certificate of Sustainable Agriculture will give you insights into “whole farm” planning, and how to make a farm more sustainable – both environmentally and economically. In this sustainable agriculture course, you will study the economic rules that apply to farm enterprise, and explore land management programs like permaculture, organic farming and biodynamics. You will also learn how to avoid serious soil and water degradation, undertake sustainable crop management techniques and evaluate the viability and potential of animal enterprises.

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking a sustainable agriculture course include:

Learning about whole farm planning
Exploring land management programs
Gaining an understanding of sustainable ways of farming
Studying natural and organic farming
Gaining insights into permaculture
Examining no-dig techniques
Understanding biodynamics
Learning about soils and growing media
Exploring soil problems, erosion and soil structural decline
Studying salinity and acidification and phytotoxicity
Gaining insights into soil improvements
Examining how to add organic matter to soils
Understanding conservation tillage and cultivation techniques
Learning about plant nutrition, soil life and cover crops
Exploring water and the types of water storage
Studying livestock water requirements
Gaining insights into water problems and water quality
Examining reed beds
Understanding water-saving measures
Learning about recycling
Exploring swales and keylines
Studying irrigation systems
Gaining insights into land care
Examining weed and tree management
Understanding preventative measures
Learning about timber lots and plantations
Exploring windbreaks
Studying wildlife corridors and habitats
Gaining insights into pests and diseases
Examining financial sustainability
Understanding economic principles
Learning how to develop a Farm Business Plan
Exploring financial plans and how to control growth
Gaining an understanding of value-adding
Studying the enterprise mix
Gaining insights into eco-tourism
Examining broad management strategies
Understanding better planning
Learning about land care or land management
Exploring new enterprises

And more!

Farming Trends On The Rise in 2021

Making the most of what we grow is one of the biggest focuses for the future of the agricultural industry. Here are some of the predicted trends that will give you plenty of inspiration for undertaking our sustainable agriculture course.

Better Reporting

On the back of Australia’s “clean-green” image, agricultural exports have captured a range of lucrative markets overseas. But there is growing demand to align this with more “granular” sustainability reporting in our own domestic markets.

This mirrors the world’s largest retailer, Walmart, declaring they will aim for zero-emission targets by 2040, and the European Green Deal, which proposes to make the continent climate neutral by 2050 via new laws for farming, recycling and biodiversity.

As a spokesperson for AgriFutures Australia commented, “We are going to have to align with these new international benchmarks. We know we are pretty efficient but we can’t share the real story because we don’t know how much carbon we are sequestering, or how much water and topsoil we’re using. We’re going to have to start measuring all of this to meet global expectations.”

Vertical Farming

Vertical farming essentially involves crops that are organised in tower formations inside climate-controlled greenhouses. A range of Australian businesses are taking vertical farming to the next level by combining it with hydroponic technology, including the Costa Group located in the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales.

Here, truss tomato seeds are planted in balsa rock, sealed in insulation pads, and set on gutters that hang from the ceilings of glass houses. The result? Seventy kilograms of tomatoes per square metre – around six times more than the best farmers in Australia can grow on soil.

As their spokesman commented, “Everything we do is about resource efficiency — how to grow more food using less land and less water. If you consider we will have to figure out how to feed 10 billion people by 2050, it’s one of the most important jobs in the world.”

Drone Technology

Drones are becoming a “must-have” for many farmers, as many traditional methods of managing and evaluating farm environments can be costly, time-consuming and resource-intensive. Operating a drone takes specialist training, including knowledge of Civil Aviation Safety Authority regulations, and drone technology can assist with:

Crop monitoring. Satellite imagery offered the most advanced form of monitoring before the use of drones, but there were serious limitations. Images had to be ordered in advance and could only be taken once a day. The process was also costly and images were often inaccurate. Today, drone animations can reveal production inefficiencies and show the precise development of crops in “real” time at a fraction of the cost.
Field and soil analysis. Drones can be instrumental in the successful start of a successful crop cycle, as, with the appropriate sensors, precise 3D maps can be generated. They can be valuable for the soil profile analysis that’s essential for planning seed planting patterns. After planting, they can also provide data for nitrogen-level management and irrigation strategies.
Crop spraying. By integrating distance-measuring equipment, drones have the ability to rapidly adjust their altitude as the geography and topography varies. This means they can scan the ground and spray the correct amount of liquid at the right distance for even coverage, thus reducing the volume of chemicals penetrating groundwater.
Health assessment. Drones integrated with the appropriate sensors can scan crops and identify the vigour and health of plants. Images can also indicate plants’ growth characteristics and monitor changes.

Seaweed Farming

Currently, there is only one commercial seaweed farm in Australia and it is located on New South Wales’ south coast. But with a range of seaweed-based applications currently in development, researchers believe we are well-positioned to make inroads into a global market that’s set to be worth billions by 2024.

One of the more promising applications is a methane-reducing additive for animal feed. CSIRO studies have shown that adding a small amount of a form of seaweed — Asparagopsis taxiformis — reduces the methane production of cattle by over 80 per cent. This is good news for the environment as, surprisingly, direct livestock emissions account for around ten per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions!

Alternative Proteins

Concerns over animal welfare, the environment and health are boosting the demand for alternative protein markets, and the CSIRO estimates it will have a combined value of over $7 billion by 2030. This includes crops like faba beans, lupins, chickpeas and lentils, as well as more unusual sources like algae and insects.

In fact, there are already more than fifty insect farmers across the country! Insect-based feed can be eaten by poultry, pigs and most household pets, and some manufacturers are even using insect protein to make energy bars and pasta for human consumption.

Native Flora

Australian native plants have been part of medicines and indigenous diets for thousands of years. Now, they are also tapping into locally sustainable food movements. Kakadu plums and wattleseed are already big sellers domestically, while lemon myrtle and finger limes have become lucrative export crops. Studies have also shown that plants like panicum (also known as native millet), can be turned into gluten-free flour that’s easier to grow and even more nutritious than wheat.

Undertake strategic agricultural planning processes to meet your desired sustainability goals with a sustainable agriculture course like our Certificate of Sustainable Agriculture.

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Tag Archive for: farming

Learning Outcomes

Case Study: Australian Cotton Industry

Mega-trends Shaping Australian Agriculture

Rapid growth

Fractal politics

More from less

Cascading planetary risks

Disruptive technologies

Positioning for the future

Learning Outcomes

Australia’s Beef Industry – Fast Facts

Cattle Breeds

Learning Outcomes

Early Irrigation Development in Australia

Early Private Irrigation Schemes

Commonwealth Government Resources

Learning Outcomes

13 Organisations Transforming Australia’s Food System

Aboriginal Carbon Foundation (AbCF)

Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR)

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO)

The Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC)

Youth Food Movement Australia (YFM)

Tips for a Backyard Permaculture Garden

Preparation

A Vege Garden

A Hen House

Grey Water

Compost

Learning Outcomes

Aquaculture in Australia

Marine finfish

Freshwater fish

Crustaceans

Shellfish

Types of Mariculture

Intensive Mariculture Production (Ip)

Extensive Mariculture Production (Ep)

Learning Outcomes

Types of Organic Farming

Poly-culture

Biodynamic Farming

Permaculture Systems

Crop Rotations

Industry Certification

Bio-Dynamic Research Institute (BDRI)

Organic Herb Growers of Australia (OHGA)

Organic Vignerons Association of Australia (OVAA)

Organic Food Chain (OFC)

Tasmanian Organic-Dynamic Producers (TOP)

Learning Outcomes

Farming Trends On The Rise in 2021

Better Reporting

Vertical Farming

Drone Technology

Seaweed Farming

Alternative Proteins

Native Flora

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