Pasture 365 Program at Ellinbank Research Farm: Trialing Year-Round Feed Solutions for Gippsland Producers
The Pasture 365 Program is a national, long-term research initiative exploring multi-species pasture systems with the aim of providing feed for livestock 365 days a year. In Gippsland, satellite trials are underway at the Ellinbank Research Farm, Gippsland Ag Group’s Bengworden site, and numerous private properties, testing these innovative pasture mixtures in local conditions.
Recently, Brodie Anderson, Project Manager for Resilience and Innovation, and Rod Hayes, Senior Manager, Resilience and Innovation at Food & Fibre Gippsland, visited the Pasture 365 Program trial plots at Ellinbank Research Farm.
Seasonal Challenges
Seasonal and climate challenges in traditional pastures disrupt year-round feed, threatening farm profitability, animal health, and degrading vital soil and pasture resources.
The program’s goal is to identify pasture combinations that deliver reliable, year-round feed for livestock producers. Ongoing trials and the development of modelling tools will help farmers select the best pasture mixtures for their specific requirements. Results from the trials are intended to inform better pasture management and boost drought resilience.
Recent Site Visit Insights
Key insights from the site visit included:
Ellinbank is one of two main Victorian focal sites for the Pasture 365 project (the other being Hamilton)
The Ellinbank site tests and demonstrates pasture options tailored to higher rainfall environments in Victoria
Multiple pasture mixtures are under evaluation at Ellinbank, including a control plot for comparison
The project assesses a diverse range of species combinations, supporting the broader approach that different environments may require different species mixtures
The Ellinbank trials provide vital data to help producers maintain a year-round feed supply
The site regularly hosts farm walks and small group sessions, giving producers and stakeholders the opportunity to view trial results firsthand and discuss potential options
Research at Ellinbank aligns with related projects, such as adjacent multi-species pasture trials
Findings from Ellinbank contribute to larger modelling and knowledge-sharing initiatives, including an online platform for producers across various regions.
“Food & Fibre Gippsland plays a vital role in extension, coordination, and connecting farmers to resilience projects. We’re proud to support these trials, which are playing a pivotal role in helping farmers build profitability and resilience by developing multi-species pasture systems capable of providing feed year-round.” said Brodie Anderson, Project Manager, Resilience and Innovation at Food & Fibre Gippsland.
Partners Committed to Long Term Research
This long-term research trial is already revealing the benefits of diversified pasture combinations, providing critical data and insights for improved farm management and enhanced drought resilience.
The Pasture 365 program is funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund (Long Term Trials Program) and led by Deakin University. Key partners include the University of Melbourne, Agriculture Victoria, University of Western Australia & Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, WA, South Australian Research & Development Institute (PIRSA/SARDI), Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, Bush Heritage Australia, and Food & Fibre Gippsland, acting as the South East Node of the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption & Innovation Hub.
For more information, please contact Brodie Anderson at Food & Fibre Gippsland: brodie.anderson@foodandfibregippsland.com.au
