AgTech Without the Hype: What Actually Works on Farm

AgTech Without the Hype: What Actually Works on Farm

Author: NSW Local Land Services June 9, 2026 Duration: 30:36

Can technology really help farmers build resilience in an increasingly unpredictable climate — or are we getting distracted by shiny new tools?

In this episode, we head to Twynam Farm in NSW to hear directly from farmers trialling agtech including virtual fencing, livestock monitoring and regenerative grazing systems.

Featuring conversations with Sarah Nolet and Susan Orgill, we explore how agtech can support climate resilience, soil health and better farm decision-making — while also asking where the risks and limitations lie.

We also hear from Camilla Beck and producers attending the Twynam field day, grounding the conversation in practical, on-farm experience rather than industry hype.

From virtual fencing and livestock monitoring to broader questions around profitability, labour and resilience, this episode asks: what technology is actually worth adopting on farm — and what problems should agtech really be solving?


Featured Talent & Links




  • Johnny Kahlbetzer - CEO, Twynam Group


Climate Smart Farming Series - AgTech to manage climate risks and maximise return on infrastructure investment 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0e9xssrvNDOxqNjnkTnokc?si=iJLKN7cPSvKBi5RGXmQxbQ 


Episode Guide

  • (00:00) Why agtech promises deserve closer scrutiny
  • (02:45) Productivity versus resilience in modern farming systems
  • (05:20) Farmers explain pressures driving technology adoption
  • (09:15) Optiweigh trials and livestock monitoring in practice
  • (11:45) Virtual fencing and rotational grazing with Halter collars
  • (19:05) Susan Orgill on evidence, soil health and farmer intuition
  • (24:00) Sarah Nolet on solving real problems, not symptoms

This episode is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and delivered by South East Local Land Services, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Local Land Services or the Australian Government. 


Hosted by NSW Local Land Services, Big Shift For Small Farms-Australian Agriculture and Regenerative Farming is a conversation about the fundamental changes required in how we work the land. This podcast moves beyond theory, grounding each discussion in the real-world experiences of Australian farmers who are implementing regenerative practices. You’ll hear from those on the front lines-producers, researchers, and industry experts-as they share practical knowledge about holistic land management. The dialogue recognizes that a truly sustainable system connects everything, from the microbiology in the soil to the well-being of the people managing the landscape. These conversations are made possible by the Grow Love Project in partnership with NSW Local Land Services, supported by Australian Government funding. By listening, you join a community exploring how agricultural resilience is built, one small farm at a time. This podcast serves as a vital resource for anyone interested in the future of farming, offering honest insights and collaborative wisdom for a more regenerative path forward.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 49

Big Shift For Small Farms - Australian Agriculture and Regenerative Farming
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