They say time flies when you’re having fun!  2025 is a monumental year for Southern Farming Systems (SFS) as the farming system group proudly celebrates 30 years of delivering groundbreaking agricultural research and extension in the High Rainfall Zones (HRZ) of Victoria, Tasmania, and Gippsland.

Southern Farming Systems has been at the forefront of innovation for three decades for farmers in the high rainfall zone. From thousands of trials and countless hours of research to advancements in farming, SFS has been a driving force in shaping the future of agriculture.  This year, we’re diving into the archives to reflect on the milestones, trials, partnerships, and people who have contributed to our journey.

Our story began in 1995 on the collapse of the wool industry in the Western Districts challenging farmers to diversify their mainly livestock system.  SFS was making waves with the development of raised bed cropping, followed by cropping variety evaluations, soil deep ripping trials, and AgriFocus our premier event.  “We have the rainfall, let’s maximise and utilise it!” founding members’ say.

From humble beginnings, trial and demonstration operations started with hand driven sowing lines, hand spreading and perhaps some more “old school” methods executed by farming members and a small group of staff.  SFS has advanced with a team of 14 full time staff and 3-4 casuals at peak times, our machinery is modern tractors, GPS systems and two brand new Zurn harvester’s! And just recently a new refurbished lab with new grain testing equipment and drying ovens.

Over the years, we’ve worked alongside local farmers and agronomists, listening to their farming challenges to generate research and invaluable knowledge, and we remain committed to delivering research, education, and events to support broadacre cropping, soils, pastures, and livestock in the HRZ.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible people who have supported SFS along the way. Our members, staff, partners, agricultural companies, supporters from local & federal government organisations like Agriculture Victoria, Grains Research Development Corporation, Catchment Management Authorities to name a few, students, and most importantly, the farmers. Your trust and collaboration have been the backbone of our success, and we’re deeply grateful.

As farming continues to evolve, so does Southern Farming Systems. The future holds new discoveries, innovations, and opportunities to improve the way we farm, sustainably, profitably and more efficiently than ever before.

To get involved with Southern Farming Systems and learn more about our special 30 year celebrations checkout our website www.sfs.org.au

Here’s to 30 years of relevant research, innovation, and sustainability with many more to come!

Image above: Southern Farming Systems first seeder with Rex Watson 1995.

Image below: Southern Farming Systems current seeder.