The group conducted its first study tour in 2009.

They have ranged from one day visits to leading enterprises in Victoria, to multi-day interstate visits to South Australia and Tasmania, as well as last year’s tour to New Zealand.

President Wayne Burton said the annual study tour is an important part of the group’s calendar.

“It a great learning experience as well as adding to the social fabric of the group”.

The group received assistance from member Ben Greene, who has great knowledge and contacts. from his time studying agriculture in NSW.

Mr Greene and his former college mate Ross Yelland assisted the group’s project manager Rob Shea in planning the tour.

Mr Burton said it was great to have such a large group go to NSW.

“We all learnt a lot and will be producing a full report for the rest of our members,” he said.

“People car pooled to Oberon at the weekend on August 20 and the study tour got a good introduction early on the Monday with a visit to the large Swatchfield property at Black Springs.

“From there it was on to Bathurst to inspect a lamb and cattle operation before the group took a slow lap of the Mount Panorama Bathurst 1000 circuit.”

The overnight stay was in Orange with an informative presentation from NSW Department of Primary Industries researcher Richard Hayes.

Day two was spent in the Molong-Manildra region at two farms.

Perennial Pasture System’s final visit for the day was to Canolobas Eggs where a cropping and lamb system complements a large chicken rearing and egg operation.

The evening was spent with the company of several NSW farmers who are interested in forming an independent group like Perennial Pasture Systems.

The next event is the eighth annual conference in Ararat on September 14. mr Shae said to call him on 0438 521 357 for more details.