As part of the Digging deeper into Watershed Soils project, Watershed Landcare have invited Robert Freebairn to be our special guest speaker at a Field Day on pasture establishment and management.

Robert Freebairn is an Agricultural Consultant and Journalist who has been writing for The Land newspaper for over 30 years. As an agriculture consultant, he has been providing agricultural advice to Australian farmers, enterprises and government departments for almost 40 years.

In 2003 Mr Freebairn was awarded an OAM for his contribution to Agriculture, including development of more productive and sustainable pastures in NSW, and for fostering the development of the dual purpose winter wheat industry.

The Field Day will be held on Tuesday 11 October at 'Maidavale', Brian and Rosie Thomson’s property, north of Mudgee.

The morning will begin with a paddock walk and discussion. The property owners are keen to get Mr Freebairn's input on establishment of pastures and competition from ryegrass.

“We’ve had one failed attempt at digit, and more recently a few paddocks sown to a winter pasture mix, fescue, cocksfoot, and a few clover species, which are a bit precarious due to the mass of ryegrass, which we’re concerned could out-compete the sown species.” said Mr Thompson.

“We have an understanding about how plant growth is good for soil health and would like to know if we should consider spraying out again and resowing again, considering the high cost to do so, or should we stop fighting it and nurture the ryegrass as our winter active species and integrate other summer active species when the rye is dormant?” he continued.

Following paddock inspections and discussion Mr Freebairn will give a power point based presentation. Discussion topics will include ground cover, various pasture types, the logic for each, and establishment and management. Native pastures will be included as well as the role of tropical, annual legumes, Lucerne and winter forage crops.

The discussion will also cover soil quality and other relevant aspects. The day will provide plenty of opportunity for discussion and to ask questions.

Attendance is free for Watershed Landcare members and $10 for non-members.

For more information or to RSVP contact Claudia Wythes, Watershed Landcare Co-ordinator, on 0412 011 064 or by email: claudia.wythes@watershedlandcare.com.au.

This event is supported by Watershed Landcare through funding from Landcare Australia and the Jaramas Foundation.