EP Ag Chats

In this episode, Bruce shares his reflections on a season that’s been anything but ordinary. After enduring the driest 18 months on record, conditions flipped dramatically in June, bringing above-average rainfall but also fresh challenges with cold day time temps, and enough wind to last a life time. Bruce opens up about nutrient constraints—particularly phosphorus uptake under dry sowing—and the surprises he’s seen in crop performance on lentil stubbles compared to medic pastures.He discusses what worked (like delayed seeding, dry-sown wheat on lentils, and a winning move with barley) and what didn’t, including lessons around early sowing and second-year wheat. Nitrogen management, moisture conservation, and navigating uneven crop development remain front of mind as he looks for upside in a compressed season.Despite the complexities, Bruce stays grounded, finding positives in strong crop patches and the resilience of his system, while also keeping balance with family and life off the farm.

Jake Giles chat with Todd Matthews a grower from Cootra on the Eyre Peninsula about their approaches to one of the driest starts in recent memory. The discussion delves into decision-making strategies regarding crop residue, paddock selection, and overall farm management amidst challenging conditions. Farmers share their experiences, including maintaining motivation, seeking advice from neighbour and advisors, and staying informed about long-term weather forecasts. The episode underscores the significance of resilience and community support in overcoming agricultural uncertainties.

In this episode of 'Making the Tough Calls: Growers' Voices,' Jake Giles sits down with Dion Trezona from Streaky Bay to discuss the challenges and decision-making processes during the dry start of 2025. The conversation covers various aspects such as soil conditions, seeding strategies, crop choices, and livestock management. The farmer shares insights on balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability, the impact of past experiences, and the importance of community support. The episode highlights the resilience and adaptability required in farming, especially during uncertain times.

In this episode of 'Making the Tough Calls - Seeding 2025,' Jake Giles chats with Minnipa grower, Bruce Heddle about the challenging 2025 seeding season. They discuss key changes in his farming approach, the decision-making process influenced by last year's outcomes, and the importance of flexibility and resilience in handling varying conditions. Key topics include changes in seeding timing, managing frost risk, adjustments in fertilizer application, and the benefits of shallow seeding. The episode underscores the value of peer advice, strategic planning, and maintaining a balanced perspective amidst uncertainty.

In this episode of 'Making the Tough Calls: Growers Voices,' host Jake Giles converses with Chris Lymm a mixed farmer from Wudinna, dealing with the dry start to 2025. The discussion covers the complexities of managing both livestock and crop enterprises in challenging conditions. Key topics include seeding decisions, risk management, and the importance of ground cover. Chris shares insights on paddock selection, crop choice, and the impact of past residue. Opinions on the unpredictability of weather, financial strategies, and community support also feature prominently, providing a comprehensive look at the realities of farming in uncertain times.