Energising the future of farming, the Northern and Yorke Young Farmer project is delivering practical learning experiences to young farmers aged 18 to 35.
Supported by the SA Drought Hub, this Northern and Yorke Landscape Board led initiative- delivered in partnership with UNFS and the Ag Bureau of SA– empowers young farmers across the Yorke Peninsula and Upper North. By fostering practical skills, innovation, strong networks, and peer-to-peer learning, the project aims to build confidence, enhance decision-making, and strengthen drought resilience and preparedness, both on and off farm.
In the midst of a challenging 2024 season, the project created valuable opportunities for young farmers to connect and engage. Thirty-five participants explored emerging agricultural technologies at the Flux Robotics’ Demo Day in Caltowie, while additional events aligned with key industry activities like the Hart Field Day.
Building on this momentum, 2025 has seen two successful events in Port Broughton, bringing together 36 young farmers from across the Upper North and Yorke Peninsula regions, along with 11 participants from the Eyre Peninsula. Attendees gained hands-on experience with drone weed mapping, variable rate lime application, declared weed management, and succession planning.
Participants noted the value of relatable examples and real-life data shared at these events, deepening their understanding of on-farm operations and broader business and financial management. One grower remarked, “It (the workshop) was very relevant in looking at spending money on new equipment- cost-effective solutions really stood out.” Another shared, “I am learning how the farm runs both in and out of the paddock at the moment,” highlighting the holistic approach to strengthening drought resilience.
Following the events, growers expressed intention to adopt new practices such as implementing cost tracking and forecasting, utilising drone mapping for weed management, and enhancing budgeting and cash flow management. As one farmer said, “More discussions around the cost of production and break-even factors have encouraged me to introduce critical thinking about cropping inputs and machinery replacement”.
Succession planning has also been highlighted as a key priority, inspiring the next gen to initiate meaningful discussions and make use of planning tools to secure their farm’s future.
The Northern and Yorke Landscape Board is continuing to support young farmers across the region, with more events planned for the second half of 2025.
Project Lead and Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, Molly O’Dea, outlined what’s in store:
“We’re planning three more events this year, including a precision ag/automation event in the Upper North, and another event to be determined by young farmers’ interest. And lastly, after our golf day was cancelled due to bad weather last year, we’ll be trying to jag a nice day this spring! This golf day will be a great chance for young farmers to network with others from across the region”
Stay up to date via the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board page, and visit the SA Drought Hub’s Northern and Yorke Young Farmers project page for the latest news and updates. This project received funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
Further information:
Molly O’Dea- Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, Northern and Yorke Landscape Board
0456 538 224, molly.odea@sa.gov.au
Tony Randall- Knowledge Broker, SA Drought Hub
0402 245 747, tony@agex.org.au
