The Thistlebank Transformation: A Data-Driven Journey of Farming
In this story, RCS graduate Ben Simpson of Thistlebank, QLD shares his journey of transformation. It begins when taking over a 22,830 HA cattle enterprise in 2014.
In this story, RCS graduate Ben Simpson of Thistlebank, QLD shares his journey of transformation. It begins when taking over a 22,830 HA cattle enterprise in 2014.
Dennis Donohoe, farm manager with Aminya Pastoral, is a seasoned producer with decades of experience, and his story is a testament to how even minor changes in farming practices can lead to significant improvements in productivity and land health.
Once you have ownership as to why planning is important, the next ingredient is to work out where and how you will do your planning. When you write something down you change your relationship with the content. I cannot emphasise enough the power of getting your thoughts and plans out of your head onto paper or the computer.
The season in SA and Tassie is particularly tight right now with little or no useful rain since early January and a generally failed 2023 spring prior to that. Right now, across southern Australia and much of the eastern NSW, you won’t need to drive far out into the countryside to see cattle and sheep grazing (and lying on) hay and silage trails lined across paddocks.
John Kempf, a visionary in regenerative agriculture, founded Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA) to revolutionise farming practices. A respected expert in biological and regenerative systems, John’s mission is to empower farmers worldwide with the knowledge and tools for a healthier, more sustainable food system. AEA’s impact extends from healthier soils to thriving communities.
John hosts the acclaimed Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, sharing cutting-edge insights from scientists and leading growers on implementing these transformative practices. Prepare to be inspired as John delves into the profound connections between soil health, human health, energy, and economics.
Unlock the Secrets to a Thriving, Sustainable Grazing Operation! In this video and blog post, David McLean, RCS’s Chief of Delivery, spills the tea on building a successful grazing business. It’s not just about cows and grass (although those are important!). Discover how to find the perfect balance between practical skills, smart choices, and a long-term vision.
We’ll dive deep into the foundational principles and strategies that can make your grazing operation both profitable and environmentally responsible. Learn how to:
Maximise your profits (without sacrificing your land!)
Make sound decisions for a healthy herd and ecosystem.
Plan for a thriving future in the grazing industry.
Ready to take your grazing operation to the next level? Watch now!
Fred is professor emeritus of Behavioural Ecology in the Department of Wildland Resources at Utah State University. For over 30 years, he directed an award-winning research group that pioneered an understanding of how learning influences foraging behaviour and how behaviour links soils and plants with herbivores and humans. Fred is one of the founders of BEHAVE, an international network of scientists and land managers committed to integrating behavioural principles with local knowledge to enhance environmental, economic, and cultural values of communities. He’s author of 300 research papers and several books including Nourishment.
In the rolling landscapes just outside the picturesque town of Monto in Queensland, there exists a place called ‘Bonnie Doone.’ It’s not to be confused with the namesake from the movie The Castle, though in some ways, the story of Bonnie Doone and its stewards, Carly and Grant Burnham, bears a striking resemblance to the lovable Kerrigans. Just as the Kerrigans cherish their close-knit family, values, and community, so too do Carly, Grant, and their family. Their story is one of warmth, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to principles that extend far beyond the boundaries of their 8000-hectare organic beef cattle property.
In the heartland of Australia, where vast stretches of land help feed the nation, agriculture is king. For time-poor Aussie producers, every decision matters, every crop counts, every animal is valued and every dollar is hard-earned. RCS has provided producers with cutting-edge tools and insights for agricultural economic analysis since 1993. Two decades ago, RCS introduced ProfitProbe, a groundbreaking tool that has since become a cornerstone of economic data collection and analysis for agricultural enterprises across Australia.
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In this story, RCS graduate Ben Simpson of Thistlebank, QLD shares his journey of transformation. It begins when taking over a 22,830 HA cattle enterprise in 2014.
Dennis Donohoe, farm manager with Aminya Pastoral, is a seasoned producer with decades of experience, and his story is a testament to how even minor changes in farming practices can lead to significant improvements in productivity and land health.
Once you have ownership as to why planning is important, the next ingredient is to work out where and how you will do your planning. When you write something down you change your relationship with the content. I cannot emphasise enough the power of getting your thoughts and plans out of your head onto paper or the computer.
The season in SA and Tassie is particularly tight right now with little or no useful rain since early January and a generally failed 2023 spring prior to that. Right now, across southern Australia and much of the eastern NSW, you won’t need to drive far out into the countryside to see cattle and sheep grazing (and lying on) hay and silage trails lined across paddocks.
Martha Lindstad and partner Robert James are farm managers on ‘Karalee’, Enngonia NSW. Both have travelled different paths to being where they are. Martha is originally from Norway, growing up on a three hectare farm before travelling to New Zealand and eventually the Pilbara in Western Australia. It was here that she saw the benefits of sustainable farming for the country and livestock.
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