In a region increasingly vulnerable to drought, South Myall Catchment Landcare took proactive steps to support local landholders through a practical, community-driven initiative. With support of $10,170 from an FRRR Small Network Grant, funded by the Australian Government through the Future Drought Fund, the group delivered two impactful workshops and field days focussed on developing grazing management systems to improve soil health, pasture longevity, and drought preparedness.
Held in November 2024 and April 2025, the two Grazing Naturally workshops brought together more than 70 participants. Led by expert Dick Richardson, the sessions combined theory and hands-on learning, starting with presentations at Peranga Hall, followed by field visits to a local property in Highgrove. The sessions demonstrated to participants how controlled grazing and strategic paddock management can transform land resilience and profitability.
The first workshop introduced landholders to the seven-paddock grazing system, a method distinct from traditional rotational grazing. This system encourages maintaining a “Sunday paddock” – a reserve area specifically set aside for use during drought. Participants learned how smaller, well-managed paddocks can improve ground cover, reduce runoff and enhance water infiltration. Between the two events, the host landholder implemented recommended changes at his own cost, including fencing and pasture planting. By the second workshop, attendees could see tangible results: increased ground cover, healthier soils and a boost in cattle numbers thanks to improved pasture conditions. Despite heavy rain and flash flooding, the April field day still drew 30 committed participants and sparked a five-hour Q&A session back at the hall.
The impact was clear. Landholders were impressed by the improvements seen in just six months. Many began adopting the Grazing Naturally system on their own properties, inspired by the visible benefits and the opportunity to learn directly from a fellow producer who had successfully made the transition.
The project provided technical knowledge, strengthened local networks and built confidence among farmers to take action. As one attendee noted, “People like to see and discuss methodology with landholders who have already carried out the work.”
The workshops fostered a sense of shared learning and community resilience, with long-term farmers embracing new practices and encouraging others to follow suit. Requests for follow-up field days highlighted the value of ongoing support and peer-to-peer learning in driving sustainable change.
South Myall Landcare’s initiative is an example of how targeted education, local leadership and practical tools can empower communities to adapt to climate challenges. Promoting sustainable grazing systems has helped farmers in the region build a foundation for ecological health, economic strength and drought resilience.