We’re investing in new technology
David Langley
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1000ha Property.
Producer of wheat, barley, canola, ryegrass, lucerne and wool.
David is the 3rd generation of his family to run the farm, dating back to 1914.
Historically the Langley’s farm had been predominantly focused on merino sheep, (at its peak accounting for 90% of revenue), but in the past ten years, through the use of new technology and innovative farming practices, it has been transformed into a grain producing farm, (with Merino wool now only accounting for 10% of the revenue).
This process was assisted when David introduced 2 metre raised beds some years ago and was further accelerated when he decided to trial 3 metre raised beds in 2008. Initial results were very encouraging and as a result David transitioned more paddocks across in 2009. The results have been outstanding and David is a passionate advocate of this innovative practice.
“Shifting to 3 metre raised beds has made a huge difference to yield and the health and structure of the soil” says David.
In 2008 the Langleys began cropping on 3 metre raised beds instead of the more widely used 2 metre beds. “Our new wide-girth tractor, coupled with our GPS system, has helped us boost production.”
The wider girth has meant fewer permanent wheel marks per paddock and more available land for the crop. The resultant land waste on these paddocks has dropped from 22% to 14%.
New technologies and practices are central to the future growth and development of Victoria’s farm sector.
Precision farming using global positioning systems (GPS) technology increases yield and water use efficiency and reduces inputs such as fertiliser, pesticides and energy.
