Ballarat BetterBeef on-farm pasture walk coming up in May

10 April 2026

The Ballarat BetterBeef Group is hosting an on-farm pasture walks for beef producers to explore practical approaches to pasture and weed management. The session will take place on Wednesday 6 May from 9:30 am, on 2 properties at Mount Mercer and Mount Wallace, and includes lunch.

In addition to pasture and weed management, industry specialists Lisa Warn (Lisa Warn Ag Consulting) and Neil James (Agriculture Victoria) will also discuss how to interpret soil test results and pasture recovery strategies, including soil testing and fertiliser requirements.

Agriculture Victoria’s Ballarat BetterBeef Group Coordinator, Neil James said the session aims to be practical and interactive while bringing producers together for learning and networking.

‘The farm walks are about giving producers the confidence and skills to make informed pasture decisions on their own properties,’ Mr James said.

'Participants will gain hands-on experience identifying key pasture species, assessing whether a paddock should be manipulated or renovated, and selecting the right pasture species for the right location and grazing system.

‘We’ll work through real paddock examples and discuss how soil tests and fertiliser strategies can improve pasture productivity and long-term persistence for productive, resilient pastures.’

BetterBeef is a statewide network of beef producers and industry advisors, Agriculture Victoria personnel and industry agencies working together to increase the sustainable productivity and profitability of the Victorian beef industry.

Mr James said the free event is open to all beef producers, with people interested in joining BetterBeef encouraged to attend, to learn more about the group and how to get involved.

‘BetterBeef Producer groups are self-directed groups, facilitated by a local coordinator who develops activities that support producers to test ideas, learn from others and build confidence to implement improved practices,’ Mr James said.

‘This approach strengthens decision making, supports adaptation to changing conditions, and drives more productive and profitable farm businesses.’

The event is free, but registration is essential for catering purposes. Register via TryBooking. For further information, please contact Neil James from Agriculture Victoria on 0417 353 929 or neil.james@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

Drought support is available, visit our Drought support page, or call 136 186.

Media contact: media@deeca.vic.gov.au