The Barossa Improved Grazing Group:

The Barossa Improved Grazing Group (BIGG) is a community-driven livestock and farming network that has its origins from five existing local producer groups; Angaston Ag Bureau, Koonunga Ag Bureau, Mt Pleasant Beef Group, North Rhine Sheep Group and the Barossa Mid North Dairy Discussion Group.

BIGG is committed to delivering greater productivity and NRM outcomes for its members through the adoption of innovative practice. In recognition of this, in September 2017 BIGG were awarded the 2017 Australian Government Excellence in Sustainable Farm Practices Award at the SA Landcare Awards, and the 2018 Ag Excellence Alliance grower group award.

BIGG were also awarded the 2014 Ag Excellence Alliance Sustainability Award by its peers (sponsored by DEWNR), as ‘an outstanding locally based grower group for its achievements in delivering greater NRM outcomes’.

BIGGs vision is to be a trusted and valuable network supporting innovative, sustainable and resilient grazing businesses. BIGG  works in collaboration with a range of state and national stakeholders, industry partners, local businesses and grower groups to cultivate a measurable improvement in Barossa farming communities’ practices through effective delivery of innovative and practical solutions for sustainable grazing systems.

BIGG was established in 2012 and receives funding to deliver a range of technical and extension projects. Projects are hosted by local farmers and events are conducted to communicate project results. Projects are managed by Technical Facilitators, Brett Nietschke, Georgie Keynes, Deb Scammell and Janie Evans, under the guidance of our Board.

With new projects in the pipeline and a membership base of over 350 subscribers, BIGG aims to extend its reach and impact in the future. To find out more about BIGGs projects, upcoming events and workshops or sign up to our newsletter refer to our contact page.