GRDC in Conversation: Matthew Howell

About this episode

Matthew Howell discusses his journey in agriculture and the shift from mixed farming to large-scale cropping in South Australia's Upper South East.

Matthew Howell is an agronomist, grower and regional advocate based in South Australia’s Upper South East. Over the past two decades, he has worked alongside growers through a major shift from mixed farming to large-scale continuous cropping, driven by rainfall, soil development and opportunity. In this conversation, Matt reflects on his journey from Cummins on the Eyre Peninsula to building a life and career in Meningie, sharing what it’s been like to work in a rapidly changing region where former dairy country has been converted to broadacre cropping and growers have had to adapt quickly. Matt speaks to the value of being actively involved through agronomy, mentoring, trials and advocacy. He explores what real practice change looks like, how tough seasons sharpen learning, and why regional leadership matters, highlighting the balance between profitability and sustainability and the need for stronger support in precision ag, data and training. This episode explores: How Matt’s upbringing in Cummins shaped his connection to agriculture and regional community Why he moved to the Upper South East and what kept him there How the Meningie region shifted from mixed farming and dairy…

People in this episode

Guest: Matthew Howell

Topics covered

• agronomy
• farming systems
• sustainability
• regional leadership
• precision agriculture
• crop management

Keywords

• agronomist
• continuous cropping
• farming adaptation
• water use efficiency
• local innovation
• farmer-led trials

Mentioned in this episode

Places: South Australia, Upper South East, Cummins, Meningie, Eyre Peninsula

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