In the heart of north Queensland, beef cattle producer Bill Bjurstrom is reaping the benefits of a technological revolution sweeping through Australian agriculture. Managing two sprawling properties, separated by a vast 350km, Bill’s operation is a testament to the power of ag-tech in enhancing productivity and sustainability. His journey began in 2024 when he joined the TEKFARM project, an initiative managed by Farmers2Founders and supported by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA). The project aims to tailor ag-tech solutions to the unique needs of producers, with a strong focus on building drought resilience.
The TEKFARM project is more than just about introducing new tools; it’s about understanding the barriers to adoption and finding ways to overcome them. Keerah Steele, a TEKFARM Advisor and Technical Adoption Officer at Gulf Savannah NRM, has been working closely with Bill to integrate technology into his operations. The process begins with a comprehensive business overview, understanding production goals, day-to-day processes, and on-farm constraints. From there, the focus shifts to identifying technologies that can aid the business and improve production.
For Bill, the journey started with drones. Recommended by a neighbour, Bill joined TEKFARM with the goal of using drones to reduce the time spent driving around the property to check on things. The results have been beyond his expectations. The SkyKelpie drones have not only saved time and reduced wear and tear but have also provided access to areas that were previously inaccessible during poor weather. Moreover, Bill has found innovative ways to use drones for mustering, improving both animal and staff welfare.
But the real game-changer for Bill has been Optiweigh, a tool that has significantly improved his market targeting. By tracking weights before yarding, Bill has gained a clearer picture of his sale cattle, allowing him to book trucks earlier and reduce handling in the lead-up to sales. The first sale after introducing Optiweigh was a resounding success, and Bill is confident about the upcoming sale, knowing he has the tools to save time, money, and stress.
The implications of Bill’s success story are far-reaching. The TEKFARM project is not just about individual gains; it’s about building a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector. As Keerah Steele points out, the project has led to unexpected wins, such as a producer who saved 400 head of cattle thanks to a tank monitor alert. These stories highlight the potential of technology to save producers from stress and financial strain and to save animals’ lives.
With over 70 producers now involved in TEKFARM and the number of advisors growing, the project continues to expand. The success stories from the field are a testament to the power of ag-tech in transforming Australian agriculture. As more producers like Bill embrace these technologies, the future of Australian agriculture looks increasingly bright.
