Yandoit Native Pastures Field Day Report
Posted on 7 June, 2012 by Connecting Country
Graeme Hand’s thought-provoking presentation on regenerating native pastures was attended by approximately 40 people at a field day on 25 May that was co-hosted by Connecting Country and the North Central CMA. Graeme is from the STIPA Native Grasses Association. The day’s program took place in the Yandoit Community Hall and at local landholder Paul Righetti’s farm.
- Graeme Hand at Yandoit Community Hall
In Graeme’s view, most advice on native pasture regeneration misses the key point which is the soil surface: “we need to compost the landscape using animals”. His talk presented the idea that although unmanaged grazing is the cause of the degradation of native pastures, appropriate sheep, cows and goat grazing regimes can paradoxically assist in the restorative process in some circumstances.
Further information on Graeme’s approach to native pastures is available from the STIPA website (click here).
Graeme’s presentation was followed by a delicious lunch once again prepared by Growing Abundance. Participants then travelled by bus to Paul Righetti’s farm. In a paddock of dense wallaby grass, Paul explained how he was working to promote maximum pasture growth on his farm which included an important role for native grasses. Paul is a member of Connecting Country’s Expert Advisory Group.
Paul Righetti addressing participants on his farming methods.
This field day was the final event in this part of Connecting Country 2012 educational program. A review of this year’s program, and planning for the next program, has already begun.
Leave a Reply