Emerging soil scientists from across the Pacific recently put their skills and their boots to the test at the 2025 Australian Soil Judging Competition, held from 25-28 November at the University of New England (UNE) in Armidale, New South Wales.
The 3-day event hosted annually by Soil Science Australia (SSA), brought together early-career soil professionals from Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific to deepen their understanding of soil landscapes and build valuable professional networks.
Team Pacifica returned to the competition for the second time, proudly representing the region on an international platform. The delegation was supported by an ACIAR-funded Scoping Study Pacific Soil Analysis led by Dr Vanessa Wong and Dr Gigi Woods from Monash University.
This year's team was composed of emerging soil science leaders in the Pacific: Mr Simon Sefa, a PhD candidate from Solomon Islands studying at Massey University in New Zealand, Ms Vikashni Prasad, a PhD scholar at Fiji National University, Dr Deeksha Krishna from Fiji National University and Ms Varea Varusi from the National University of Samoa.
The team was coached by soil scientist, Dr Rohit Lal from the Pacific Community (SPC) also an ACIAR alumni, with additional support from Australian soil experts Simon Buchanan and Lyndon McGrath of Allied Land & Water, who generously volunteered their time to prepare the Pacific participants.
'Over two intensive training days, participants learned to identify soil properties, classify soil horizons and apply land capability assessments critical skills for understanding how soils influence agriculture, development and environmental management,' explained Dr Gigi Woods.
'On competition day, the teams moved into the field, where they were challenged to correctly identify soil profiles from real-world soil pits. The fast-paced, high-pressure assessment pushed participants to work as a team and apply knowledge gained during the training.'
Learning from Australia's diverse soils
For the Pacific team members, the competition provided an opportunity to explore soil profiles that differ greatly from those found in their home countries.
Mr Sefa said the experience expanded his understanding of how soils shape agricultural outcomes.
'I particularly valued the opportunity to investigate and classify Australian soil types, which are distinct from those found in Pacific Island countries. Through this experience, I gained a deeper appreciation of the critical role soil pedology plays in agricultural development. Pedological insights are essential for effective land-use planning, as they help identify major limiting factors and guide sustainable management decisions,' said Mr Sefa.
For Dr Krishna, the competition sharpened her analytical skills and broadened her perspective on soil formation.
'Representing Pacific Island countries in the Soil Judging Competition in Armidale was an enriching experience. Australian soils clearly reveal their formation history through subtle features like colour transitions, structure changes and horizon boundaries. Working with these unfamiliar profiles taught me to pay closer attention to small details - skills I can take back home while working in Andisols,' said Dr Krishna.
She added that connecting with Australian coaches provided new insights into classification and land management.
'Their perspectives offered valuable comparisons to Pacific Island environments. The conversations showed how soils carry stories of climate, geology and time that differ from region to region. I felt proud to represent Fiji and the Pacific, and grateful to return with new knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the soils that sustain us,' said Dr Krishna.
Strengthening Pacific confidence and capacity
For Ms Varusi, the soil judging competition was both challenging and informative. 'It pushed me beyond my limits and opened my eyes to a whole new level of soil education. This experience reminded me that we, as Pacific people, have the strength, talent and determination to stand confidently on international platforms,' said Ms Varusi.
She also reflected on what the experience means for her role as a teacher: 'The ideas, knowledge and skills I gained are treasures I look forward to bringing home; enriching the way I teach and creating meaningful learning experiences for my students at the National University of Samoa.'
ACIAR's commitment to soil capacity in the Pacific
As World Soil Day approaches, ACIAR celebrates its commitment to boosting soil capacity in the Pacific. 'Initiatives like the SSA soil judging competition empower Pacific soil experts with deeper knowledge of soils and soil profiles, forging vital connections with Australian soil scientists', said Dr Johnvie Goloran, ACIAR Soil and Land Management Research Program Manager.
'Through hands-on training, international collaboration and exposure to diverse soil landscapes, our Pacific partners are growing in skill and stepping into regional leadership roles.'
