GGA has developed a four-part professional development program for research and project officers, designed to build technical capability while fostering a supportive professional community of practice within the GGA network.
Program Four-Part Structure
Following a co-design process, the program has evolved into four components tailored to meet the ongoing and changing needs of the network:
- Part 1 – Independent Learning ~ onboarding and foundational training series for new hires
- Part 2 – Group Learning ~ a continuous professional development series offering a blend of in-person and online group learning opportunities throughout the year
- Part 3 – Community of Practice ~ peer connection and knowledge-sharing amongst the GGA network
- Part 4 – Mentoring ~ optional, one-on-one guidance available to existing research and project officers
Part 1 – Independent Learning [self-paced]
Currently under development, this part of the program is aimed at supporting the induction of new hires (or to fill knowledge gaps for existing staff).
This part of the training series comprises a collection of online resources and video tutorials accompanied by templates, worksheets, and additional resources covering the following topics:
| Digital Item | Title | Theme | Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Module [1] | Trials and Implementation – Pre-sowing | Trial design & implementation for small plot & paddock scale | Member Resources |
| Module [2] | Trials and Implementation – Growing season | As above | Member Resources |
| Technical materials | An assortment of PDF or Excel documents that provide templates or technical guidance | Technical project aspects | Member Resources |
| Module [3] | Trials and Implementation – Harvest | As above | 2026 |
| Module [4] | Trials and Implementation – Post-harvest | As above | 2026 |
| Module [5] | Farm Access 101 | Considerations such as biosecurity, farmer engagement etiquette, essential ute kit, and safety considerations | 2026 |
Part 2 – Group Learning
From a co-design workshop with research and project officers across the GGA network, the following priorities emerged. These will be delivered through a blend of in-person and online events throughout the year, selected based on the evolving needs of the cohort: project management, virtual field walks, agronomy of farming, practical AI (for not-for-profits) and report writing (project communications and scientific reporting).
Program activities (completed and upcoming) will be listed here so you can block out diary dates in advance. When registrations are open, simply click the link in the Registration Access column of the table. If registrations are not yet open, submit an EOI using the form further down the page to request that a spot be reserved for you.
Activity Dates [List]
EOI Form
Part 3 – Community of Practice
A community of practice is a vital element in fostering resilience and supporting long-term engagement. It brings professionals together, cultivates social support, and builds collegial ties among participants as they navigate their roles and careers.
To strengthen these connections, a dedicated LinkedIn group has been created to provide a space for peer-to-peer support, sharing advice, and keeping up to date with program developments.
Click here to request access to the group.
Part 4 – Mentoring
GGA has the opportunity to involve grower group officers in a new program to be rolled out by DPIRD, with further details to be shared soon.
Resources
On Farm Experimentation Grower Case Studies
The On Farm Experimentation project, led by Curtin University in collaboration with GGA, provides tools for growers to conduct and analyse paddock-scale trials. The accompanying booklet features case studies from farmers who used these tools to optimise fertiliser use, demonstrating significant improvements in crop yield and cost efficiency. The project is designed to simplify and support on-farm experimentation, enhancing decision-making and profitability in farming practices.
Enquiries
For enquiries, contact Frances Marshall, Communications and Events Officer, at frances.marshall@gga.org.au.