The future of farming

By Jed Lanyon

Farmers and landowners in the Yarra Ranges are invited to hear expert speakers, learn about how climate change will impact them and how they can adapt to meet the challenges of a changing climate.

Presenters include soil scientist Dr Cassandra Schefe, South Gippsland sheep and cattle farmer Jenny O’Sullivan, East Warburton sustainability consultant Corey Watts and co-founder of Permaculture David Holmgren who will speak about how farmers and landowners can adapt their land management to meet the impacts of climate change.

The event is being held at The Memo in Healesville, from 7pm on Wednesday 29 May.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Tony Stevenson said, “Agriculture in Yarra Ranges is already being affected by climate change. It’s important we all explore ways to adapt to and mitigate the risks of a changing climate.

“Unfortunately, as the climate warms and dries, and as extreme weather events become more common, our agricultural production will be at increasing risk.

“We’re proud to be presenting some leading thinkers on agriculture and the environment, who will present on those risks, detail solutions, and answer questions that our local farmers and landholders have,” he said.

“We hope that everyone coming along will get a better idea of how the coming decades will affect agriculture in the region and how we can all get ahead of climate change.”

At the end of the event, attendees can ask questions of the experts in a Q and A panel and there will be supper and a networking opportunity from 9.15pm.

This event has been organised by Yarra Ranges Council, along with Agribusiness Yarra Valley, Women in Horticulture, Yarra Ranges Landcare Network, Port Philip Catchment Management Authority, Monash University and Farmers for Climate Action.

RSVPs are essential. For more information or to book, visit yrc.vic.gov.au/FarmingSolutions