Mallee Sustainable Farming (MSF) has strengthened its research capacity with the appointment of experienced agronomist and soil scientist, Fernando Viero as Senior Technical Officer, based in Loxton.
Fernando holds a Bachelor of Agronomy, Master and PhD in Soil Science from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. He joined MSF in the beginning of August and will support our growing research program across the Mallee, for delivering field trials, data collection and analysis, grower extension and the development of practical research outcomes for farming communities.
Originally from southern Brazil, Fernando brings more than 10 years of experience in applied agricultural research, broadacre cropping systems and grower extension. Before joining MSF, he worked as a field agronomist, supporting grain growers through field research, crop monitoring and extension across commercial farming systems.
Fernando said MSF’s focus on practical, farmer-driven research was a major attraction to the role.
“I enjoy working closely with growers to address practical challenges and believe that meaningful research is achieved when scientific evidence is combined with local knowledge and experience,” Fernando said.
“The opportunity to contribute to projects focused on soil management, crop rotations, farming system resilience and profitable dryland agriculture aligns closely with both my professional background and my long-term career goals.”
In his new role, Fernando will work closely with MSF Research Manager Dr Penny Roberts and the broader research and extension team to coordinate and oversee agronomy field trials, particularly across the South Australian Mallee, with travel throughout the Victorian and New South Wales Mallee.
His role will also include working with growers, advisers and industry partners at field days and other extension activities, helping ensure the knowledge generated through MSF research is shared with farming communities across the region.
“Fernando brings a great combination of strong technical knowledge and practical field research experience to MSF. His background in soils, cropping systems and working directly with growers will be a valuable addition to our research team as our program continues to grow,” Dr Roberts said.
“We’re really pleased to have Fernando based in Loxton and look forward to the contribution he will make across the Mallee.”
Fernando Viero, MSF’s newly appointed Senior Technical Officer, with members of the MSF team at a recent crop walk at Bowhill, SA.
