AgTech Without the Hype: What Actually Works on Farm

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

• Sarah Nolet - Managing Partner, Tenacious Ventures
  Tenacious Ventures

• Susan Orgill - Chief Scientist, Impact Ag Australia
  Impact Ag Australia

• Camilla Beck - Executive Officer, Tablelands Farming Systems
  Tablelands Farming Systems

• 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.