Technical presentations, examples of precision agriculture (PA) application by farmers and an interactive “show and tell” session filled with a number of demonstrations of PA tools and service information, are on the schedule for the upcoming PA workshop being held on Friday, September 7.
The Society of Precision Agriculture Australia (SPAA) and Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited (HCPSL) will host the workshop at the HCPSL and Sugar Research Australia (SRA) Herbert site in Ingham.
SPAA executive officer Nicole Dimos said the workshop is open to all, especially those with an interest in PA.
“Whether you’re a novice or an expert PA user, the workshop will provide an exciting opportunity to see and hear about the latest PA technology,” she said.
“While the workshop is aimed at the cane industry, there will also be lots of information available which is applicable for surrounding industries including horticulture, grazing and natural resource management.
“Topics will include yield monitoring, use of drones in PA systems, software solutions, variable rate controllers, digital soil mapping and sensors.”
HCPSL manager, Lawrence Di Bella said the day will give participants a chance to see where agriculture is going into the future.
“Growers and technical personnel will see first-hand the latest technology in PA at the workshop,” he said.
“It’s hoped that these technologies will assist in increasing industry profitability, while ensuring the long term sustainability.
“We’ve put together a program that should interest all people interested in agriculture, and in general PA.
“We’re also excited to be collaborating with SPAA for the first time and being able to share our common goals to promote PA adoption.
“And with the interest in drones in the area, the workshop will provide a perfect opportunity to showcase a project we’re working on with French company DelAir.”
During the workshop Tom Pontarelli, Giru, will be giving an account of his PA trials and variable rate practices to quantify yield improvements in melons, and Walter Giordani, Ingham, will detail his attempts to remediate sodic soils on his farm using PA.
Also, Brian Dore, Tully, will outline how Sweet Cane is using PA to improve herbicide applications and increase farm productivity.
“In the afternoon, five presentations by industry experts will take place every 30 minutes with attendees to be rotated to allow them to see all the presentations,” Dr Demos said.
“We’re also excited by the support from industry including SPAA corporate sponsors and project partners at HCPSL who’ll be showcasing amazing products that can help improve farm management systems.”
SPAA president Jessica Koch said if you have an interest in PA, then the Ingham workshop is a must.
“There will be PA experts on hand to showcase products and answer questions, peers to network with and practical examples,” she said.
“The event will offer something for everybody. I encourage everyone local and afar to register.”