TasFarmers Gauging Drought Readiness

Photo: TasFarmers’ Drought Resilience Coordinators, Sophie Folder and Tas Loane, at Agfest 2025. Photo by Jasmine Chapple. 

TasFarmers has used Agfest 2025 as a key opportunity to hear directly from producers about how they are managing the dry seasonal conditions and preparing for the season ahead.

Drought Resilience Coordinators Sophie Folder and Tas Loane were at Agfest to gather insights from farmers about their current challenges, preparedness levels, and what support or resources could help strengthen resilience across Tasmania’s agricultural regions.

“This is about listening to the real experiences and concerns from the ground,” Mrs Folder said. “We take what we hear directly to government, the TAS Farm Innovation Hub, and decision-makers to ensure future drought initiatives and programs genuinely reflect what farmers need.”

Mrs Folder said that while the past year brought some improved pasture growth after spring rains, many producers are still carrying the scars of last year’s state-wide fodder shortages, compounded by bottlenecks in processing capacity and water storage pressures.

“We want to know: how are you placed for the months ahead? Do you have the feed, water, and plans in place to manage stocking rates, calving, or cropping decisions through a tough winter?” Mrs Folder said.

TasFamers offers free drought resources, including feeding guides for beef and sheep, along with access to the Resilient Farming Tas Program to help producers develop Farm Business Resilience Plans.

“We’re not just here to hand out information — we want to hear your voice and make sure it shapes the decisions being made at state and national levels,” Mrs Folder said.

TasFarmers encourages anyone who missed the team at Agfest to contact the office on (03) 6332 1800 to share their thoughts or access drought support.