Regional and rural communities will see the Farms of the Future mobile learning centre hit the road as it begins travelling 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.
The maiden voyage will see the vehicle driving to Nyngan and Walgett in North-West NSW.
Project Manager Hamish Dickson said it will be exciting to take the bus on its first journey to deliver Agtech Fundamentals workshops to rural communities.
"The Farms of the Future team is looking forward to bringing this training to primary producers across the state," Mr Dickson said.
"The 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.
"More than 1,300 farmers around the state have already benefited from the training we have provided.
"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.
"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 simulate how Agtech tools function in the paddock, such as water tank monitors, soil moisture probes, in-paddock weighing systems, and weather stations.
A large 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:
- Nyngan – 25 February
- Walgett – 26 February
- Dubbo, Big Tech Big Ideas Field Days – 26 & 27 March
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.
