What if one native plant could fundamentally change how your grazing system performs, even through drought?
In this episode, Local Land Services Cropping Ag Advisor, Tim Bartimote, sits down with Andy and Ben Sippel from Saltbush Plains to unpack decades of hands-on experience using old man saltbush as a backbone species in grazing systems. From transforming degraded cropping country into resilient perennial pasture, to maintaining high stocking rates independent of rainfall, they share why deep-rooted native shrubs are one of Australia’s most underutilised agricultural assets.
You’ll hear how saltbush supports livestock performance with year-round green feed, high protein levels, and exceptional water-use efficiency, plus how smart grazing management turns ecological strength into economic strength.
This is a practical, grounded conversation for producers interested in building resilient pastures, reducing inputs, and working with Australia’s landscapes, not against them.
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The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.
This show is produced in collaboration with SoundCartel. Visit soundcartel.com.au for more information.

From Paddock to Plate: Building a Lamb Brand That Controls the Whole Chain with Andy and Ben Sippel
35:25

Fixing the foundations: Why Liam Mowbray sees rectifying pH as the first step in healthy pasture
30:02

Value for money: Why Stuart Tait would have gone harder, earlier with lime
35:51