The Hunter and NSW North Coast will see the Farms of the Future mobile learning centre hit the road as it continues to travel around regional NSW to deliver practical learning on Agtech and on-farm connectivity solutions.
Run by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), the purpose-built bus brings hands-on Agtech device demonstrations and expert knowledge directly to primary producers.
NSW DPIRD Farms of the Future Senior Project Leader, Hamish Dickson said we're looking forward to hitting the road across the Hunter and North Coast of NSW to showcase Agtech and engage directly with rural communities.
"The Farms of the Future program aims to help farmers determine their Agtech and connectivity needs, to confidently make a plan to purchase, install, and importantly use the data for improved decision making or peace of mind regarding farm operations," Mr Dickson said.
"More than 1,300 farmers around the state have already benefited from the training we have provided, and the bus will serve as an extension of this training.
"Bringing this high-tech bus direct to communities means we can deliver these free, in-person training sessions to even more people, close to where they live and work.
"We understand farmers are making tough choices at the moment, by using Agtech, businesses can help reduce fuel use and manage water during droughts.
"No matter your location, enterprise type or level of experience, we invite producers to step inside and explore interactive experiences, expert guidance, and easy-to-understand examples of how Agtech can deliver real value on-farm.
"Keep your eye out for the Farms of the Future bus on the open road, you won't be able to miss us."
Visitors stepping aboard will experience virtual reality stations and interactive displays that highlight how Agtech tools function in the paddock, such as water tank monitors, soil moisture probes, in-paddock weighing systems, and weather stations.
An outdoor demonstration area will showcase a range of physical technologies, allowing visitors hands-on experience with equipment to see how it functions in a real-world environment.
Agtech specialists can also help producers identify their challenges, suggest relevant tech solutions, and explain how the tools would operate based on the farm's location, infrastructure, and goals.
The Farms of the Future mobile learning centre is scheduled to visit:
- 1st - 3rd May; Tocal Field Days held at Tocal College, Paterson;
- 7th - 8th May; North Coast Farming Forum at Clunes;
- 21st - 23rd May; Primex Field Days at Lismore.
Councils, grower and producer groups, schools, and community organisations can register their interest in hosting the Mobile Learning Centre.
Primary producers can also book their spot for upcoming Agtech Fundamentals workshops, held at various locations around NSW, through the Farms of the Future website.
