Mallee Sustainable Farming (MSF) is proud to announce the appointment of Simone Kluge as its first Research Intern under the new South Australian Mallee Regional Internship in Farming Systems and Applied Grains Research and Extension. This exciting initiative, funded by the South Australian Grain Industry Trust (SAGIT) and the SA Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub, is designed to build the next generation of applied research and extension professionals for the low rainfall Mallee region.

Simone Kluge brings a strong local connection and a passion for sustainable farming. Raised on her family’s 4,500-hectare broadacre cropping and prime lamb farm at Bowhill in South Australia’s Murray Mallee, she has lived the challenges and opportunities of farming in the region. Simone recently completed a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at the University of Adelaide, equipping her with a solid foundation of technical and practical knowledge to begin her career in field-based research and extension.

Now based at MSF’s Tailem Bend office, Simone has already hit the ground running, spending time in the paddock and contributing to several key research activities. Over the next 12 months, she will work alongside MSF’s team of experienced researchers and extension specialists on a range of projects including crop rotations, soil amelioration, variable rate technology, pastures and grazing, weed management, and building farm resilience.

Simone’s internship is part of MSF’s commitment to fostering local capacity and supporting the long-term productivity and sustainability of Mallee farming systems. Under the guidance of Dr Penny Roberts, and with mentoring from across MSF’s experienced team and partner organisations, the program will provide Simone with hands-on training, field experience, and communication skills to help bridge the gap between research and real-world farming solutions.

“I’m really excited about learning the practical side of research and how it applies directly to the farm,” said Simone. “Having sustainable farming practices in place is so important for the long-term future of agriculture and food production in our region.”

Beyond her work with MSF, Simone enjoys horse riding and spending time at the river – activities that reflect her deep appreciation for the outdoors and the rural lifestyle.

MSF is thrilled to welcome Simone Kluge to the team and looks forward to supporting her journey as she helps advance applied research and grower engagement across the region.

Photo caption: Simone Kluge (inset), MSF’s first Research Intern, pictured with the Mallee Sustainable Farming team at the recent Mallee Research Update in Karoonda.

This project is supported by the South Australian Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub, which is one of eight Hubs established across Australia through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund. The SA Drought Hub brings together a dynamic network of primary producers, industry groups, researchers, government agencies, universities, agribusinesses, traditional owners and others to work towards a common vision to strengthen the drought resilience and preparedness of farms and regional communities in South Australia. This project received funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.

Further information can be found at:  SA Drought Hub – Supporting SA farmers and regional communities