AN annual expo delivering the latest in precision agriculture for farmers and researchers in cropping, livestock and horticulture took place in Loxton last week.
Society of Precision Agriculture Australia’s (SPAA) SA Precision Ag Expo was held at the Loxton Hotel last Thursday for the first time in eight years.
The expo, which was well-attended by more than 50 people, began with a morning program for high school agriculture students and followed by talks from six featured speakers: Wade Nickolls, Damon Grace, Greg Hall, Joe Koch, Hugh Ong and Sam Trengove.
Loxton grower Robin Schaefer, who was MC on the day, said the featured speakers delivered a “broad spectrum” of information.
“Farmers appreciate hearing other farmers talk and will always pick up a tip here or there,” he said.
“Each of the speakers gave great talks and it was interesting to learn how they each do things, and how what they do is – or can be – related to our own operations.
“It was also good to hear an update from a John Deere sponsor about where they’re at with their connected farm operation centre and how they’re pushing that forward.”
SPAA executive officer Nicole Dimos, who is based in Mildura, said she was pleased with the strong attendance.
“Because of COVID restrictions we were limited with how many people could come, but we surprisingly reached our target and there were only about four seats left,” she said.
“It was great seeing people from different locations who are in different industries at different levels.
“Having the school kids from Glossop and Renmark High School come in the morning too was extra special because the room was filled with more people and they took away great tips and knowledge for the future.”
Ms Dimos said one key highlight from the expo was learning about measuring.
“People are going to appreciate the importance of measuring and how every part of your farm can be managed differently,” she said.
“Don’t treat your whole farm as one unit. You’re going to have some parts of your farm that aren’t performing as well as others and that’s okay, you just need to maximise those areas and put your inputs where you’re going to get the best bang for buck.”