Digging into soils July 2026

30 July 2026

Our NSW Regional SoJustine Cox recently travelled to Far North Queensland to join Regional Soil Coordinators from across Australia for the annual Community of Practice, bringing together soil specialists to share knowledge, explore emerging research and discuss practical approaches to improving soil health.

Hosted in Cairns, the program included visits to a range of research sites and farming systems, showcasing innovations in areas including cover cropping in sugarcane, real-time water quality monitoring, tropical pasture management and soil biology. While the production systems differ significantly from those in southern NSW, the principles behind improving soil function and building resilient farming systems are widely applicable.

"One of the greatest strengths of the Regional Soil Coordinator network is the opportunity to learn from what's happening in different parts of Australia," Justine said.

"Every region has its own challenges, but there are also many shared opportunities.

Bringing those ideas back to southern NSW helps us connect local producers with the latest research and practical approaches that could make a difference on farm."

The Community of Practice also provided an opportunity for Regional Soil Coordinators to strengthen connections across the national network, helping ensure knowledge, research and practical experiences continue to be shared between regions.

Regional Soil Coordinators from across Australia and Justine Cox

Soils Network of Knowledge webinars return

The Soils Network of Knowledge (SNOK) webinar series returns next month, featuring leading researchers and practitioners sharing the latest developments in soil science and management.

The upcoming program includes:

  • August: Dr Paul Nelson (James Cook University) - Enhanced rock weathering science.
  • September: Humphrey Milford (NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water) - The eDIRT app.
  • October: Dr Tony Pattison (Queensland Department of Primary Industries) and Dr Paul Dennis (The University of Queensland) - Soil microbiomes, soil-borne diseases and soil health indicators.

"These webinars are a great opportunity for growers, advisors and anyone interested in soils to hear directly from researchers working at the forefront of their fields," Justine said.

"They're designed to make the science accessible and practical, so I'd encourage anyone with an interest in soil health to subscribe."

Subscribe here to receive webinar announcements and registration details.