Film Tour Highlights Importance of Healthy Soils for Sustainable Agriculture

In late 2023, Upper Mooki Landcare Inc members initiated a mini film tour after engaging with Suzannah Cowley of Nviro Media, who had created the short documentary Thankful for Soil in collaboration with the organisation "Thankful for Farmers." The documentary highlights the essential role of farmers, both as food producers and environmental custodians, echoing one of Tamworth Regional Landcare Association’s (TRLA) goals of providing landholders with the latest tools and education for sustainable agricultural practices.

The film delivers key messages from leading farmers about soil—our most precious natural resource—which supports healthy plant growth, food production, and critical ecosystem services like clean water and air. Beyond agriculture, healthy soils play a pivotal role in regulating the earth's climate by storing carbon, making them a cornerstone in combating climate change and mitigating extreme weather events.

Recognizing the film’s potential to inspire and educate, North West Landcare supported the idea of a regional film tour. The initiative became part of the Future Proofing Your Farm workshop series, held in Moree, Gunnedah, Quirindi, and Tamworth in August 2024. These events, hosted by local Landcare groups and facilitated by Suzannah Cowley, provided a platform for learning and collaboration across the region.

In addition to showcasing the film, the events featured presentations by experts like Professor Martin Thoms of UNE on the hydrology of the Namoi Catchment and Cameron Leckie, Regional Soil Coordinator with the SQNNSW Innovation Hub. Panels of local farmers and agronomists also shared insights into their practices, sparking lively discussions with attendees.

Through these workshops, regional farmers and landholders gained valuable knowledge and tools to build more resilient, sustainable farming systems, reinforcing the shared goal of nurturing healthy soils for future generations.