Biofertilisers are fertilisers that have undergone a biological process and contain microbes that can enhance plant resilience and production. Many biofertilisers can be made on farm with equipment you likely already have. Bio-ferts can result in significant cost savings and improved plant health. Leading farmers are using bio-fertilisers and seeing significant crop health boosts. This health has meant they have been able to start dropping out insecticides and fungicides. However, bioferts have to be made right to ensure they work. Soil First Tasmania has secured Australia's leading teacher of Bio-ferts, David Hardwick, to teach us in a hands-on workshop at Table Cape Tulip Farm.

Morning tea and a light lunch will be provided.

About David Hardwick

David is a professional agroecologist at Soil Land Food. He has been doing soil and regenerative agriculture extension and consulting across Australia for over 20 years. He completed a degree in Ecological Agriculture at the University of Sydney with a focus on regenerative and organic farming systems, land management and rural change. For five years he worked as Technical Manager for a biofertiliser company that manufactured and sold a range of biological products including fermentation-based biostimulants, humates, liquid fertilisers and rock phosphate products. He was involved in product development, QA and on-farm trials. In 2011 he completed the Mas Humas biofertiliser course. Since then he has worked with farmers, made and consulted on biofertiliser projects across Australia. David’s passion is agroecology and empowering farmers with knowledge and skills that make a difference!

Making Bioferments Workshop Schedule

9am - Introduction

9.15 am - 10.30am - Types of products and the essentials of fermenting

10-30 - 11.00 am Morning Tea

11.00am - 12.30 pm - Making Base Cultures and Bioferts (Hands on session)

12.30pm - 1.00pm lunch

1.00pm to 2.30 pm Making Bioferts

2.30 - 3.00pm Q & A