Farming Systems Specialist – Adoption Officer sought to contribute to the South Australian Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub

The SA Drought Hub is seeking a Farming Systems Specialist – Adoption Officer to support its efforts to increase the drought preparedness and resilience of the State’s farmers and regional communities.

Ag Excellence Alliance has been contracted by the University of Adelaide – the Hub’s lead partner – to engage and support the Farming Systems Specialist – Adoption Officer position.

“Reporting to the Hub Director, the Farming Systems Specialist – Adoption Officer position provides an exciting opportunity to work in a nationally significant program and link research with extension activities that develop resilience within farming systems and agricultural industries across South Australia,” said Leet Wilksch, Ag Ex Chair.

“This position will complement and add value to the Knowledge Broker role being undertaken by Tony Randall who is also engaged by Ag Ex on behalf of the Hub,” Mr Wilksch said.

A collaborative initiative led by the University of Adelaide in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), the SA Drought Hub is one of eight Hubs established across the nation in 2021 through the Australian Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund.

A total of 59 partners are aligned to the Hub, including SA grower groups; the three SA-based universities; government agencies; indigenous partners; agribusinesses; research, development and extension partners; and industry organisations.

This broad collaboration forms a solid foundation from which to engage with the primary production sector and bring together diverse knowledge in a shared vision.

Mark Stanley, Ag Ex Executive Officer, said the Adoption Officer would play a pivotal role in connecting farmers and communities to support available from the Hub.

“This is a rare and outstanding opportunity to be part of a leading, innovative initiative which will make a significant impact within agriculture, both locally and nationally,” Mr Stanley said.