Food & Fibre Great South Coast

Join us at the Southwest Showcase of Dairy Innovation event where we will get a VIP tour of Doolans Farms, Sustainable Technologies - Ecklin South, South West Victoria. Doolans Dairy Farm, a third-generation family-operated farm, is a leader in sustainable dairy farming located in South West Victoria. Renowned for its innovative practices, the farm is part of the vibrant dairy industry that characterises the region, contributing significantly to Australia's high-quality milk production. The Doolan family has embraced cutting-edge technologies and sustainability initiatives, including the use of advanced solar power systems and water recycling methods. Their partnership with programs like the Heytesbury Landcare Network’s Keeping Carbon on the Farm has allowed the farm to achieve remarkable outcomes in carbon sequestration, with soil carbon levels exceeding industry benchmarks. Committed to environmental stewardship and productivity, Doolans Dairy Farm employs multi-species cropping, effluent irrigation systems, and modern cooling technologies to enhance operational efficiency while reducing emissions. These innovations underscore their dedication to both environmental sustainability and the future of Australian agriculture. Doolans Dairy Farm exemplifies how traditional farming values can coexist with forward-thinking practices, setting a benchmark for sustainability and resilience in the Australian dairy sector. Their efforts not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the economic vitality of South West Victoria. Tickets now available via Eventbrite: https://lnkd.in/gizWaQi9 Deakin University

The National Centre for Farmer Health provides vital support to farmers for managing tough times like drought and bushfires. They have mental health resources and information tailored for Victorian farmers and agricultural communities, including: • Managing Stress on the Farm booklet • Farmer Wellbeing Toolkit • Health Assessment Tool. Start taking care of yourself by checking out the resources here: https://lnkd.in/gNdcqCWE

Excited to announce that Gavin Hunt, Farm Performance Manager - Farm Source will be joining us at our Southwest Showcase of Dairy Innovation event on 24-25th of February. Gavin hails from Ireland and has a strong farming background, his degree in Agricultural Science from University College Dublin. Gavin's previous role was managing Farm Zero C, an innovative project focused on achieving a climate-neutral dairy farm in Ireland. He recently relocated to Melbourne, securing a position with Fonterra, as Farm Performance Manager. In this role, he supports the Farm Source team in delivering Farm Environmental Plans and Insight reports, aimed at improving innovation, economic and environmental sustainability of their primary producers. Tickets now available via Eventbrite: https://lnkd.in/gizWaQi9 Deakin University Hycel

Do you know the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) offers a free and independent service to farmers in south west Victoria experiencing the impacts of drought and bushfires. The RFCS Victoria West has wellbeing counsellors who work hand in hand with financial counsellors to ensure the mental health and wellbeing of clients receive as much attention as their financial position. If you are experiencing financial difficulty or mental stress associated with managing farm finances in tough times give them a call. To speak to an RFCS Vic West counsellor today call 1300 735 578. Find out more at https://lnkd.in/gv9MGir8

The Southwest Showcase of Dairy Innovation at Deakin University’s Warrnambool Campus is a groundbreaking event that highlights advancements in dairy technology and sustainability. Over two days, industry leaders, researchers, and innovators will explore transformative innovations, including hydrogen fuel cell technology tailored to the dairy sector. Attendees can experience live demonstrations of operational hydrogen fuel cell applications and participate in field visits to pioneering dairy producers excelling in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and robotic farming. This event offers a unique opportunity for agricultural, technological, and investment stakeholders to collaborate, learn, and drive sustainable innovation in the dairy industry. https://lnkd.in/gquc4iju

🎉 Food & Fibre - Great South Coast is returning to #evokeAG2025 as an Exhibitition Partner, bringing our expertise and passion to showcase Australia’s top agricultural production region! 🌱 As the food and fibre sector continues to fuel regional prosperity, the Great South Coast is driving innovation, sustainability, and opportunities in agriculture. 🌾 We are thrilled to be at AgriFutures evokeAG again this year and once again to highlight our contributions to research, value-add investment, and the development of food and fibre careers. See you at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on 18-19 February 2025! 2025 program ➤ https://bit.ly/4eDiznO Tickets ➤ https://bit.ly/44Sc8IC

💧 Water is vital during droughts for agriculture, ecosystems, and communities! In the Barwon & Great South Coast regions, a new project aims to strengthen resilience by reviewing water infrastructure priorities. Let’s promote efficient use & shape future planning through Sustainable Water Strategies! Come along on the 5th February and take part in the discussion and learn from Industry Experts from Wannon Water, Southern Rural Water and DEECA.🌱 https://ow.ly/XN1E50UE39k #WaterResilience #DroughtPreparedness #WaterConservation #SustainableWater #AgricultureInnovation #EcosystemHealth #CommunityEngagement #WaterManagement #BarwonRegion #GreatSouthCoast #EnvironmentalSustainability #WaterInfrastructure

🌱 With climate change threatening pasture-based systems, particularly perennial ryegrass, farmers face feed gaps & financial strain during dry spells. 🌾 Innovative solutions like multi-species pastures can provide year-round forage. Collaborative research is key to identifying the best mixes for diverse environments! That is why collectively partnering with Multiple Universities across Australia and in particular Deakin University is crucial to the success of this project. #SustainableFarming #ClimateResilience #MultiSpeciesPastures #PastureManagement #AgriculturalInnovation #Ryegrass #FarmResearch #DiverseFarming #AustralianFarming #CollaborativeResearch

🌊💧 Join Us on February 5th for a Crucial Discussion on Water Resilience! 💧🌊 Water is life, especially during drought. It’s essential for agriculture, ecosystems, and our community spaces. But with increasing challenges in the Barwon and Great South Coast regions, we need to come together to enhance our water infrastructure! ✨ Imagine a future where our communities are prepared and resilient against drought—where every drop counts! On February 5th, we’re launching an initiative to align water projects across sectors and boost sustainable practices that protect our vital resources. Help us identify key infrastructure needs that will ensure a thriving ecosystem for generations to come. https://lnkd.in/gt7Q_wm5 🔗 Don’t miss out! Be part of the movement towards efficient water use and better regional planning—your voice matters! Click the link in bio to RSVP NOW and make a splash in shaping our water future! 💦👥 #WaterResilience #DroughtPreparedness #SustainableFuture

Happy New Year from all of us at Food and Fibre Great South Coast! May 2025 bring you joy, good food, and vibrant connections. Let’s celebrate local flavors and the beauty of our community together! Cheers to new beginnings, tasty adventures, and a year filled with abundance! #HappyNewYear #FoodAndFibre #GreatSouthCoast #CommunityConnections #SupportLocal #NewBeginnings #Abundance2025