Students from the University of Western Australia’s first year Agricultural unit ‘Feeding the World’ visited the Matthews Farm in Pingelly in March 2021. The annual visit supplements the students’ on campus learning of the challenges we face with feeding the world now and into the future through agricultural practices centred on sustainable intensification.

Highlights from the trip included seeing organic amendments being applied to improve soil health, turning paddocks of rocks into arable soil using a Western Australian invention called the ‘reefinator’, as well as crop management and diversity, and innovative animal management. 

Students were impressed by the innovative practices, with many students who had never been to a working farm before saying “that this trip generated enthusiasm for pursuing a career in sustainable food production!"

For anyone with a social conscience, an interest in global cultures, or an interest in food and
how we consume and produce it, this unit both challenges popular beliefs and provides a solid
foundation with which to develop your own opinions and interests for further study.

Yvonne Zago, UWA student

All first year students at UWA enrolled in the study of Agricultural Science, Agricultural Technology or Agribusiness take this introductory unit to showcase the many facets they will explore in their years studying with UWA.  In 2022 UWA is very excited to bring back the named degree of Bachelor of Agriculture and also offer a Bachelor of Agribusiness, read more here.