As we head into seeding, the SA Drought Hub continues to deliver a strong program of activities aimed at building resilience, capability and connection. Thank you to everyone who attended our recent Regional Engagement Update webinar where we provided an update on these activities. For those who missed it, watch here: Regional Engagement Update: A webinar for SA Drought Hub Members and Network Partners
The SA Drought Hub team recently came together in McLaren Vale for one of our biannual workshops. These catch-ups are important for reviewing progress and planning our outputs to ensure they align with industry needs. Across the two days, we worked through the 2026/27 project priorities, and looked ahead at where the Hub can add the most value. We also had the opportunity to visit an agrivoltaics trial as part of the AgriFutures funded ‘Plant production agrivoltaics across southern Australia’ project, exploring how integrated solar and agriculture systems could support future farm resilience. More info: Agrivoltaics project.
This month I’d like to acknowledge the outstanding work of our Livestock Technical Specialist, Dr Penny Schulz, in delivering key initiatives to support producers across southern Australia. This includes the Enhanced Livestock Management Bootcamp, providing hands-on training in feed, nutrition and decision-making, and the More Beef from Pastures 2.0 program, supporting producers to improve pasture use and whole-farm profitability through peer learning and data-driven insights.
I would also like to acknowledge the work of Rachel May, Farming Systems Specialist Adoption Officer, in providing timely support activities for grain growers. With crop establishment decisions front of mind Rachel drove the SA Drought Hub Crop Establishment Forum in partnership with the Hart Field Site Group. This explored pre-emergent herbicide use, seeding strategies, climate insights, and gross margin planning to help manage seasonal risk and improve crop establishment outcomes. View the resources here: Crop Establishment Resources.
We also encourage you to watch the Navigating Cropping Decisions in a Risky Climate webinar which Rachel also helped coordinate, via the RiskWi$e Central Action Research Group. Watch it here: Cropping decisions in a risky environment – SA RiskWi$e workshop April 2026.
Looking ahead, the Hub team is excited to connect with industry at LambEx26 in Adelaide, where we are proud sponsors and will be hosting a booth. We are also pleased to be hosting a Facilitating Learning and Change workshop with Jeanette Long, designed to strengthen extension and engagement skills, we encourage you to register.
Finally, it is with great disappointment that I announce the resignation of Kylie Piper as our Hub Manager. Kylie brought extensive skills in complex project administration along with genuine passion for the work of the Hub in enhancing drought resilience. Kylie’s contribution to the Hub has been exemplary and enabled the Hub to improve practice and operate highly effectively. I would like to formally and genuinely acknowledge the work, dedication and commitment Kylie brought to the role and I sincerely wish her every success in future endeavours.
As always, please reach out with any questions.
Kind regards
Stephen Lee
