South East pasture seeds grower Ron Badman had only been growing pasture seed for five years when he decided to apply for a Churchill Fellowship to travel overseas in 1967, to learn more about how to manage it.
The end result of his study in the United States and Europe opened doors for the capable and inquisitive farmer, helping to change Australian agriculture for decades to come.
Fifty years on, Churchill Fellowships are still opening doors for a new generation of farmers, agricultural scientists and advisers.
Ron, from Koppamurra, was a founding member of the SA Seed Producers Association and founding director of the SA Seed Growers Cooperative, later known as Seedco, serving continuously for nearly 30 years until he retired at 81 years old.
He was so impressed by the life-changing experience that in 1990 he became the first fellow to donate to the trust’s sponsored fellowship program.
The Ron Badman Family Churchill Fellowship is awarded every four years, in perpetuity, to someone wanting to explore issues relating to seed production, irrigation and pasture development.
Since it was established, seven farmers and scientists from across Australia have received the fellowship.
Among these were Keith agricultural adviser and entomologist James De Barro, who investigated commercial pollination systems for lucerne seed crops in the US in 2000.
“Much of today’s pasture seed production techniques, especially for sub clover, are based on the efforts of Ron half a century ago," James said.
"The Churchill Fellowship reminds people that, not unlike Winston Churchill and the legacy he afforded to those after his time, farmers like Ron Badman are a cornerstone of what many take for granted today."
In May 1967, Ron and wife Mary, set off for the United States where he visited research centres and universities, farms, seed processing plants and crop improvement associations.
At his own expense, he added another month to carry out further investigations in Europe.
Upon his return, Ron wrote two widely-read reports, and was in great demand to speak at farmer meetings and conferences.
In the following years, he became one of the most significant contributors to the development of the Australian seed industry, hosting research trials and becoming active in numerous industry organisations.
Ron passed away in 2006 at the age of 94, but today his grandson Bruce runs the family property.
Bordertown cereal and livestock producer Roger Groocock went to Europe and the US 10 years ago to explore improving the health and productivity of sandy soils.
Mr Groocock said he tossed up the idea for two years, before finally sitting down to put his application together.
He said the initial struggle to clarify his ideas was worth it, with the fellowship opening up opportunities he did not even know existed.
Each year up to 12 South Australians are awarded Churchill Fellowships to travel overseas to investigate an issue they are passionate about, by meeting with, observing and learning from leaders in their field.
Applications for the national award close April 28 for Churchill Fellowships to travel between February 1, 2018, and January 31, 2019.
- Details: Apply at churchilltrust.com.au
