Ayr and Home Hill Students Dig into Soil Science at Ag Careers Day

Students from Ayr and Home Hill have gained a hands-on look at the science behind agriculture, taking part in an interactive Agricultural Careers Day hosted at Home Hill State High School.

Delivered by NQ Dry Tropics staff, the workshop introduced Year 10–12 students to the fundamentals of soil health and its role in sustainable farming across the Burdekin.

The session moved beyond theory, with students rolling up their sleeves to take part in real-world soil testing activities. They compared soil types, explored how to interpret soil test results and learned practical conservation techniques used across the region.

At interactive stations, students conducted soil dispersion tests, examined soil texture using the “ribbon test” and tested pH levels — all key skills for understanding how land can be managed more effectively.

NQ Dry Tropics Soil Conservation Officer Bernie Claussen said building this knowledge early was essential for the next generation of farmers and land managers.

“Healthy soils have a structure; this means that much of it is air; spaces for plant roots and millions of micro-organisms to live in, all the while fertilising the soil," she said.

“Healthy soils grow healthy crops and pastures while using less inputs. These living soils erode less and improve the long-term resilience of agricultural production systems."

The event formed part of the school’s Future Field Immersion Program, giving students insight into career pathways in grazing, cropping, agronomy and environmental science.

CAPTION: Students get hands-on experience tasing soil pH. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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