Feature: Field days a pathway to potential

In April 2019, the department hosted two agricultural field days to provide opportunities for pastoralists, producers, industry and stakeholders from the NT and interstate to exchange knowledge and experiences.

The theme was ‘NT Agriculture: Pathways to Potential’, to illustrate new opportunities for agribusinesses and diversification options for existing pastoralists.

These events took place at Katherine Research Station and Douglas Daly Research Farm over two consecutive days and were targeted purely at the agricultural industry.

The field days included information about the latest research in northern Australian beef cattle genetics, using livestock to help control gamba grass, new crops such as cotton, soybeans, forage and grain sorghum, dryland rice, and various species of pasture grass for seed production.

Joy Sherlock, Senior Extension Agronomist, said networking and learning from such field days could be invaluable when it came to growth and development.

“They are a chance to learn from specialists and other producers in your sector, and that knowledge can help you move your agricultural business forward,” she said.

“Field days display the latest research, technology and practices, and can expose attendees to advancements in industry they might not know about.

“Presentations, hands-on farm paddock tours, trade displays and machinery galore make these events a must for anyone who wants to find out what is happening in the world of cropping, pasture and livestock.”

The department hosted the events with support from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the NT Farmers Association and the NT Cattlemen’s Association.

Around 280 people attended the Katherine event, with around 255 attending the Douglas Daly field day. More than 100 businesses took part at each event and, according to the feedback, more than 96 per cent of attendees said they learnt something new.

ANNUAL REPORT 2018-19 - DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRY AND RESOURCES