Welcome to the Farming Together podcast. This season, Pippa Jones is chatting with farmers who are putting science-backed information into practice - testing ways to reduce emissions and strengthening their farm businesses. Across six episodes, you’ll hear from farmers who are trying out research-informed tools, ideas and technologies. We delve into what sparked each journey, what’s been challenging, what’s paid off, and what farmers would do differently next time. Together these stories show how research is driving real‑world change across Australian agriculture and horticulture. In Episode One, Pippa Jones speaks with Karin Stark, who shares her journey into farming and the practical lessons that came with trialling renewable energy on a large mixed farm. From early solar pumping workshops to a complex solar–diesel irrigation project, the conversation explores what it really takes to make on-farm energy transition work. Karin’s experience provides strong practical evidence - plus she’s considered the payback time of her investments, and what they can realistically expect in terms of emissions reductions once their system is fully up and running. It’s an insightful look at the opportunities, challenges, and growing momentum behind farms becoming producers – not just of food and fibre, but also of energy and carbon outcomes. Thank you, Karin, for reminding us that decarbonisation isn’t just about new technology – it’s about persistence, connecting with other farmers and leading the way in shaping a more resilient future in agriculture. Read the case study here: https://farmingtogether.com.au/cutting-costs-and-emissions-with-solar-on-a-cotton-and-wheat-farm/ Links mentioned in this episode: National Renewables in Agriculture Conference and Expo 12 August 2026 Orange, NSW https://renewablesinagconference.com.au/ The Essential Energy Pioneer Scheme https://www.essentialenergy.com.au/-/media/Project/EssentialEnergy/Website/Files/Our-Network/PioneerScheme_Factsheet.pdf?rev=dced06af27834702a5add7bc75f2520d This season is brought to you by the Land and Primary Industries Network of the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub. So, whether you’re already trialling new ideas, curious about what’s possible in your own operation, or just keen to hear how other farmers are approaching decarbonisation, this season is for you. To learn more about the Hub’s activities and resources go to: www.decarbhub.au or to contact us about getting involved in future research email Communications@decarbhub.au Disclaimer: This podcast is produced by Southern Cross University (ABN 41 995 651 524) as part of the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub series. It is provided for general information and educational purposes only. No advice: The content of this podcast does not constitute professional, agronomic, financial, legal, environmental, business or investment advice and must not be relied upon as such. It does not consider your individual objectives, circumstances or needs. You should seek independent advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed. Guest and third‑party views: The views, opinions, statements and experiences expressed by guests and other contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Southern Cross University, the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub, or their staff, partners, funders or related parties. Southern Cross University does not verify, adopt or endorse statements made by guests. No endorsement: References to specific tools, technologies, products, services, suppliers or organisations are based on a guest’s own experience and are provided for illustration only. They do not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, approval or warranty by Southern Cross University, and no commercial relationship should be inferred. No warranty / results may vary: While reasonable care is taken in producing this podcast, Southern Cross University makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, currency or reliability of the information. Agricultural operations vary widely, and outcomes described by guests may not be achievable, replicable or suitable in other settings. External links: This podcast and its show notes may contain links to third‑party websites or resources provided for convenience only. Southern Cross University does not control and is not responsible for the content, availability or accuracy of those external resources. Limitation of liability: To the maximum extent permitted by law, Southern Cross University and the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub exclude all liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense (including indirect or consequential loss) arising from any use of, or reliance on, the information in this podcast. Nothing in this disclaimer excludes, restricts or modifies any consumer guarantee, right or remedy that cannot lawfully be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law or other applicable law. Recording date: Information in this podcast was accurate at the time of recording. Circumstances, research findings, technologies and regulatory settings may have changed since that time.
