22 May 2017

The Port Phillip and Western Port Women in Sustainable Agriculture (WiSA) leadership group has provided women in our catchment, ongoing opportunities to develop, enhance and share their skills, knowledge, confidence to promote sustainable agriculture in the Western Port region.

Since the September 2016 leadership workshop, the women of diverse commodities have organised events and tours in agriculture and sustainable food production, in their key areas of expertise.

WiSA group met on Friday 19th May to learn more about understanding soil health and soil fertility with guest speaker Chris Alenson providing expert information different soil types, compaction issues and methods for improving soil quality and management. The field day was held at one of the WiSA women Lyn Link’s grazing property in Garfield North, where she also shared the history of soil and pasture management on her property.

The WiSA group participants were very enthusiastic to discover ways in which managing soil health and fertility can be integrated into their own land management practices. They were particularly interested in the hands-on approach the field day offered, learning on-farm and sharing knowledge among each other.

The group has a very active and growing Facebook group, which provides opportunities for other women working in Agriculture whi are keen to build their skills and knowledge to join and participate in the various activities and training opportunities available. Being part of the group also provides a fantastic social network for women with similar passions and interest.

For more information on WiSA please contact Sarah Halligan on sarah.halligan@ppwcma.vic.gov.au

The WiSA group is supported by the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.