VSTWP attend first ever Wimmera Field Day
The Wimmera Machinery Field Days marked an important milestone in 2026, with the Victorian Serrated Tussock Working Party (VSTWP) attending for the first time to engage directly with landholders on the growing threat of serrated tussock.
Held near Horsham, the two-day event brought together a wide cross-section of the agricultural community. The VSTWP was located in the Moore Pavilion alongside other agencies and authorities, providing a strong platform to connect with farmers and land managers. Representing the VSTWP, Lachlan McIntyre spent both days speaking with attendees and sharing practical advice on identification and management.
“It was a fantastic event to be part of,” Lachlan said. “Getting the chance to speak directly with farmers and landholders, hear their concerns and share practical advice made it incredibly worthwhile.”
A strong level of interest was shown throughout the event, particularly around the spread of serrated tussock into western Victoria. Many visitors took the opportunity to improve their identification skills, with hands-on access to plant specimens proving especially effective. These interactions highlighted the importance of early detection, with landholders keen to ensure they could confidently distinguish serrated tussock from similar grasses.
“There was a real appetite to learn,” Lachlan added. “People were genuinely engaged, asking great questions and really keen to get on top of identification and management on their own properties.”
There was also genuine concern raised about the recent infestation near Dimboola, reinforcing the reality that serrated tussock is continuing to expand its range. Conversations often extended beyond a single species, with many attendees expressing broader concerns about emerging weeds and future biosecurity risks likely to impact the region.
VSTWP resources were in high demand across both days. The “Identify Serrated Tussock” and “Best Practice Management” publications were particularly popular, with many visitors taking copies to support on-ground action back home. Lachlan ensured that anyone stopping for a chat was directed to these materials, helping build confidence and capability among landholders.
The stand also featured information from Project Platypus and local Landcare groups, along with details of the Squirrel Glider Program. This added a broader environmental perspective and created a positive, engaging space for discussion.
The field days also provided valuable opportunities to connect with other stakeholders, including Agriculture Victoria staff visiting from Bacchus Marsh, further strengthening relationships across the sector.
As a first-time attendee, the Wimmera Machinery Field Days proved to be an extremely worthwhile event for the VSTWP. With strong engagement, high interest and clear concern about the westward spread of serrated tussock, it has quickly established itself as a key event for future outreach—particularly as the need for awareness and coordinated management continues to grow.
