Extension and adoption training wraps up for 2026
Last week, we wrapped up another round of our Extension and Adoption Training Program, delivered through GGA’s capacity building program. This year’s program brought together 45 grower group staff, industry consultants, and extension and research professionals to strengthen their skills in supporting farmers to adopt new practices.
Reflections from the Collaborate Innovate Conference
The Collaborate Innovate Conference covered a wide range of sectors and themes, and several messages had strong relevance for the Future Drought Fund Drought Hubs Program and for agriculture more broadly.
New technology could save WA brewers thousands in wastewater costs
Like most breweries connected to the mains sewer system, Spinifex Brewing pays to have its wastewater treated based on how much it produces and how “dirty” it is. A new treatment system being trialled through the PropaGATE project, co-funded by the SW WA Hub, could offer a more cost-effective solution.
Practical Soil Insights at Regional Workshops
Over the past few weeks, the South-West WA Regional Soil Coordinator has delivered seasonally relevant soil information at a series of regional events, providing practical guidance for growers across a range of soil types and management challenges.
Sustainability front and centre at the 30th GRDC Grains Research Updates
Knowledge Broker Dr Mary Anne Glanzlowe and Hub Adoption Officer Alison Lacey were among the GGA team attending this year’s GRDC Research Updates in Perth, and have summarised key takeaways on how grain producers can adapt to a drying climate while strengthening long‑term farm and community resilience.
New online learning platform! Introducing Soil Quality Courses
The SoilsWest team, in partnership with the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and Murdoch University, recently launched the Soil Quality Courses at the Grains Research Updates in Perth on the 16th February 2026.
Best of 2025: podcasts and videos
What topics did our Dry Season Resources podcast listeners and Dry Season Shorts viewers resonate with the most in 2025? The answer says a lot about the challenges, and opportunities, shaping our region right now.
Growing the Bucket
The Northern Agricultural Catchments Council (NACC) is investigating an approach titled “Growing the Bucket” aimed at mitigating the impacts of declining rainfall and increasing intensity of extreme weather events across agricultural landscapes. This work is being undertaken at a demonstration site near Cataby.
Time to Lime – Research summaries to inform decision making
Farmers and advisors can now explore a new collection of resources showcasing recent research from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and practical liming strategies for managing soil acidity, developed by the SoilsWest team in collaboration with DPIRD soil scientists.
Regional Soil Coordinators at Soil Judging Competition in NSW
The national cohort of Regional Soil Coordinators recently travelled to Armidale, NSW to join the annual Soil Judging Competition hosted by Soil Science Australia. Nothing short of a significant organisational achievement, this year’s event held at the University of New England involved over 220 people from 11 countries!
Soil sampling: why summer is the perfect time
Summer is an ideal season to run a soil sampling program. It provides valuable insights for planning the next season and helps track trends in soil results over time. Testing at the same time each year ensures results are comparable, building a clear picture of how soil parameters change over time.
Perennials versus annuals: new funding helps measure feed quality through the season
As part of their Drought Node role with the SW WA Hub, South West NRM has been awarded a small grant to perform feed tests on six farms over the next five months. The tests will compare feed quality (e.g. energy, protein) of perennial pasture versus annual pasture in late spring, mid-summer and early autumn.