Held in March, Grounds for Growth focused on the adoption of multispecies pastures and other practices to improve soil health and function.
This first-of-its-kind event brought together local and international biodiversity experts alongside farmer experiences and industry research to equip farmers with valuable insights to make informed decisions with long-term benefits.
We explored several key projects that test how innovative farming practices — ranging from multispecies swards to regenerative methods — can optimise production, soil health and profitability.
We heard from farmers who trialled multiple forage species, compost and effluent in place of chemical fertilisers — sharing what worked and what needed rethinking.
An Irish dairy farmer, Gillian O’Sullivan, highlighted how multispecies can succeed even on shallow soils, illustrating that these concepts aren’t limited by geography.
Consultant Cam Nicholson’s guidance on testing changes in smaller, lower-performing paddocks first resonated with many at the event.
By starting small and analysing the data, farmers can scale up confidently if the results meet their production and financial goals.
The candid farmer-led panel discussions were an event highlight, revealing practical realities, such as balancing deeper-rooted perennial herbs with legumes and grasses to improve soil structure and nutrient cycling, and clarifying how each farm’s unique context influences decisions.
The Grounds for Growth event confirmed my long-held belief — what’s good for the environment can also be good for business.
These efforts help to expand our collective knowledge and ensure Australia’s dairy industry thrives for generations to come.
Dairy Australia continues to invest in research projects, as well as collaborate and deliver on multi-agency initiatives, such as the upcoming soil health framework led by the Grains Research and Development Corporation.
Cath Lescun is the national soils and water lead at Dairy Australia. Read more from Cath at: https://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/news-repository/2025/03/20/how-soil-and-pasture-biodiversity-can-help-dairy-farmers
Access resources from Grounds for Growth at: https://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/soils-and-water/soil-management-and-fertility/grounds-for-growth/resources
Read more stories from the Grounds for Growth conference at: https://www.dairynewsaustralia.com.au/
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