The TCE Agricultural Systems class have had a kickstart to the course, with a field trip to Tasmania’s North-West. Beginning with a stop at Tasmanian Berries at Exton, students had a tour of the new packing shed and chill room, research and development sheds and innovative blackberry sheds. This visit showcased important aspects of agribusiness and investment, as well as plant production systems. We also got to taste test some strawberry varieties (the verdict: all delicious).
At the Tasmania Institute of Agriculture (TIA)’s Dairy Research Facility at Elliott, we were shown how technologies including real-time data collection, GPS fencing systems and robotic dairies can be used to improve efficiency and productivity. TIA’s research into feed additives and pasture fertiliser regimes provided valuable context for our ongoing learning into scientific thinking.
Our final stop was TIA’s Vegetable Research Facility at Forthside. Here, we were shown field trials of crops from hemp to peas and poppies to onions, all the while gaining further insights into how research can be used to solve agricultural problems.
A huge thanks must go to the staff from all three facilities for sharing their time and expertise with us.
Kate Gard
Teacher
