On average, this means producers can expect an additional net benefit of $6 a hectare annually as a result of their participation in the program.
With the annual PDS call opening on April 3, MLA project manager Alana McEwan says “producers and farming organisations should always try to be on the front foot when it comes to effective managing techniques and making improvements to their business practices”.
Ms McEwan said before proceeding with a preliminary PDS application, producer or farming systems groups should go through four steps.
1. Register for the PDS webinar
Ms McEwan, alongside PDS co-ordinators, Russell Pattinson and Maria Thompson, will provide an overview of MLA’s producer demonstration site program and how to set up for success in the upcoming PDS call.
The webinar will cover an overview of the PDS program, different funding opportunities, what is involved in running a PDS project, putting together a quality proposal and what resources are available.
The webinar will hear from current PDS participants on the value and benefit they see from the projects they are involved in and get key dates for the 2023-24 PDS open call.
The webinar for southern producers will be held on March 16 at mla.com.au/news-and-events/events-and-workshops/producer-demonstration-sites—your-questions-answered–southern-australia.
2. Get buy-in from the producer group and ensure engagement with active producers who are open to practice change.
MLA recommends establishing a group of 10 core producers, with three to five of them open to providing their properties to host demonstration sites. Producers should speak to peers in their local areas and start discussions on specific farming issues they think should be addressed.
Local service providers, such as farming systems groups, livestock advisors and consultants, can also provide great assistance by directing participants towards like-minded producers, and providing support for group discussions.
3. Identify key management practices that are of interest and relevance to the group
Once the group has been established, identify the key management issues that you want the project to address. These improvements can range from productivity increases, profitability maximisation or a change in perspective on sustainability.
4. Engage a PDS facilitator to assist with the application and project co-ordination
While PDSs are focused on producers working together and learning from each other, an experienced PDS facilitator is vital to the effective co-ordination of each project.
Although established farming systems groups often have staff members that take on this role, newer groups should consider local service providers to outsource the technical knowledge and skills needed to deliver results. These include livestock advisors or consultants (both private and national), agronomists, vets and department extension officers. These providers can aid the application process, communication with MLA’s PDS contacts and help keep the project on track for success.
The annual PDS call opens on April 3, with preliminary applications closing on May 16.
Successful preliminary applications will be invited to submit full applications, with successful full applications progressing to finalised contracts.
This process takes about six months, with MLA seeking projects that will start in the latter half of 2023-24. Projects must be active for a minimum of two years and a maximum of six years, allowing for continuous monitoring, adjustment and time for the practices to show their merit over various seasons.
For more information, contact Alana McEwan at amcewan@mla.com.au.
