Southern Farming Systems (SFS) is excited to relaunch its popular Women on Farms program in 2026, continuing a successful partnership with the Corangamite Rural Women’s Network and Corangamite CMA that began in 2018.

The original workshops were developed to provide women involved in farming businesses with practical knowledge, confidence and the opportunity to ask questions in a supportive environment. While women play a vital role in many farming enterprises, they are not always the primary operator or decision-maker and often need access to independent, trusted sources of information.

As farming communities evolve through generational change, retirement and movement of people between regions, there is a growing need to reconnect and support a new generation of women on farms. The 2026 program aims to do just that through practical learning, networking and knowledge sharing.

The program is being delivered by Southern Farming Systems with support from Corangamite CMA through the Diverse Farms, Resilient Catchments project, funded by the Australian Government’s Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.

Get Back to Basics with Plant Biology 101

The first workshop, Plant Biology 101, will be facilitated by Lisa Miller, SFS Specialist Research and Extension Officer. Lisa has more than 20 years of pasture agronomy experience and has spent the past 13 years with Southern Farming Systems, specialising in soil, pasture and livestock systems research and extension.

This free, hands-on session will cover:

• Identifying common pasture species and weeds

• Understanding management tactics and control options

• Practical paddock-based learning

When: Tuesday 21 July 2026
Where: 1231 Rokewood–Shelford Road, Rokewood
Time: 10.30am – 1.30pm
Lunch: Provided

Participants are encouraged to dress warmly and bring gumboots for the outdoor activities.

Looking Ahead

The second workshop will be held on Tuesday 8 September at the Inverleigh Bowls Club, featuring Sam Baldry from Get Grounded Consultancy. The session will explore:

• Farming business structures

• Family relationships in farming businesses

• Planning for the future

A third workshop planned for October will be shaped by participant interests and priorities, ensuring the program remains relevant and valuable.

Registration is essential: https://forms.office.com/r/SLLnv9Ckn6

For more information, contact Isabelle Fox at Southern Farming Systems:
📧 ifox@sfs.org.au
📞 0412 080 162

Whether you are new to farming or have years of experience, the Women on Farms program offers a valuable opportunity to learn, connect and build confidence in your farming journey.