The Mixed Farming Internship – Limestone Coast was established to build research, development and extension capacity in one of South Australia’s most important mixed farming regions. Delivered by MacKillop Farm Management Group (MFMG) in partnership with SARDI, the internship provides an early-career professional with practical experience across grains, livestock and mixed farming research while strengthening local capability to support drought-resilient farming systems.
Project description:
Following an extensive recruitment process, Arabella Hinge commenced the 12-month internship in January 2026. Working alongside MFMG, SARDI researchers, advisers and growers, Arabella gained practical experience across a diverse range of mixed farming research projects throughout the Limestone Coast.
The internship combined field research, project management, communications and extension activities, allowing the intern to contribute to active research while building the technical and professional skills required for a career in agricultural research and extension. Alongside research activities, the internship also provided opportunities to assist with grower events, field days, publications, communications and industry networking, strengthening regional research and extension capacity.
Key achievements and results:
Project Update – 2026
The internship successfully embedded an early-career researcher within the Limestone Coast research and extension network, providing hands-on experience across more than a dozen research projects spanning grains, livestock, soil management, pasture systems and drought resilience. Arabella contributed to all stages of applied research, including trial establishment, soil and plant sampling, crop monitoring, harvest, data collection and collaboration with researchers on trial design and management.
Beyond technical fieldwork, the internship developed valuable extension and communication skills through involvement in workshops, seminars, field days and discussion groups across the Limestone Coast. Arabella also contributed to event delivery, social media, publications, grower communications and planning for major MFMG extension activities, providing practical experience in translating research into information that supports grower decision-making.
A key outcome of the internship has been the development of a strong professional network linking researchers, advisers, growers and industry organisations. Through the program, Arabella strengthened her skills in project management, communications and applied research while confirming her interest in pursuing a career in agricultural research, development and extension within the Limestone Coast region.
The project also strengthened regional research capacity by creating another skilled professional with practical experience in mixed farming systems. The internship supports the long-term succession of agricultural research and extension in the Limestone Coast while helping ensure growers continue to have access to locally relevant, independent research and advice.
You can learn more about the new Intern appointment, and Intern Arabella here.
Further information: