“THE FUEL AND DROUGHT CRISIS” UPPER MOOKI LANDCARE & CARBON8 WORKSHOP

This report summarises feedback from 23 participants who attended a soil health event led by Kevin Elmy (Canadian Soil Health Educator) and Mike McCosker (from Carbon8) on April 9-10 2026 conducted by Upper Mooki Landcare and Carbon8. The event was designed to enhance knowledge and practical skills related to soil health, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable farming practices. The event was funded by a Tamworth Regional Landcare Small Grant, in combination with sponsorship from Carbon8, enabling minimum ticket price.

Key Highlights:

Attendees praised the event for its friendly and informative atmosphere, quality presenters, and practical demonstrations. Kevin Elmy's presentations, in particular, were frequently mentioned for their clarity and accessibility. The small group size and collaborative learning environment were also appreciated.

Many participants valued the practical sessions, especially hands-on activities making "PooBrew" and using soil testing equipment. The opportunity for discounted follow-up courses and the availability of relevant books were noted as positives.

Suggestions for improvement included clearer coordination between hosts, providing references for claims, more practical handouts, and avoiding information overload. Several attendees wanted more opportunities for introductions and networking, as well as name tags and pre-reading materials.

• Planned Actions by Participants:

All attendees expressed intentions to implement practices such as multispecies cover cropping, making and applying biological soil amendments like PooBrew, improving soil biology, conducting further soil testing, and enhancing pasture management. Several noted that their next steps depend on rainfall and soil moisture conditions.

• Suggestions for Future Events:

Topics requested included holistic management, biodynamics, detailed practical sessions on multispecies cropping, more on soil and pasture management, financial aspects, natural sequence farming, and further scientific explanations of organic soil amendments. Participants also wanted more on composting, pasture renovation, and integrating trees into pasture systems.

• Overall, the event was well-received, with constructive feedback aimed at refining future offerings and supporting continued learning and collaboration in the farming community.

Nicky Chirlian

Liverpool Plains & Gunnedah Landcare Coordinator