Tom Robinson – SA
Tom Robinson’s innovative practices have significantly improved soil health and productivity on his 4,000-acre property in Hoyleton. The multi-species companion and cover crops he has planted are improving soil productivity and farm gate returns while reducing farm inputs. As well as his early experience increasing plant diversity, Tom’s ability to modify machinery to meet farmer needs has hastened adoption of the dry-land farming system in his region. Fuel efficiency has been improved via Tom’s three-metre permanent wheel tracks, which have reduced the area of paddock compacted by farming machinery. Tom has worked closely with the South Australian No-Till Farmers Association as board member and chair, as well as with other Landcare organisations to promote the benefits of retaining crop residues, increasing plant diversity, and supporting soil biology.