What is MSF?

1. What is MSF? Gemma Walker Executive Manager

2. MSF’s Tri-State Sphere of Influence Established 1997 1000 members 7 million hectares Low rainfall zone

3. MSF is working towards …. • DYNAMIC • PROFITABLE • AND SUSTAINABLE farming in the dryland Mallee of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia

4. What is MSF doing …. • MSF trial and demonstration sites have shown the multiple benefits of legume break crops in the cereal cropping system. • Advanced thinking on technique – now being included in farming systems. • Linking with the National Food Plan – feeding future generations with fewer import, building workforce skills, trial work and promotion of results leading to innovative, sustainable practices being taken up by farmers. • Building relationships with research and extension groups – critical networking to achieve the best outcomes.

5. Getting the messages across … • Providing training and off-farm learning opportunities to busy farmers. • Developed improved extension methods to reach the wider community. • Greater use of social media – YouTube clips, Facebook etc • Greater use of technology delivery – iPads, Smartphones, etc • Making learning easier without the rigour of four-wall containment.

6. How does MSF do it all …… • Networking with local farmers, agencies, governments (Federal and State), industry, community groups. • Getting vital assistance from research organisations. • Facilitating the ever growing demand for innovative farming and agricultural solutions via partnerships with organisations like: • CSIRO; University of Adelaide; • Dept of Environment and Primary Industry (NSW and Vic) • Local Land Services (NSW) • Landcare; Catchment Management Authorities • SA Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board • Rural Solutions SA

7. Thank you for your attention …. • Any questions ……. • Visit www.msfp.org.au