GROUNDED Live - 2025: David Watson - Why Farm Landscapes are Critical for Safeguarding Wildlife

There’s a persistent belief in Australia — and around the world — that farming and nature sit on opposite sides of a divide. That ecological harmony belongs “out there” in national parks, while food production happens elsewhere. But the truth is far more interesting, and far more hopeful.

In this session, we hear from Professor David Watson, an ecologist whose work spans birds, mistletoe, woodland ecosystems and the complex relationships between species. (If you haven’t yet, make sure to listen to his incredible mistletoe session too.) David brings evidence-based insight into a powerful idea: that farms aren’t just compatible with nature — they’re often critical to safeguarding wildlife, supporting threatened species and restoring ecological function at scale.

For many farmers, this perspective resonates deeply. But hearing it stated so clearly by a leading scientist — that farms matter profoundly for biodiversity — is both validating and energising.

This is a gentle, eye-opening and hopeful conversation about the role of working landscapes in a changing world.

Settle in and enjoy Professor David Watson on GROUNDED Live.

GROUNDED Festival is a cross between a food festival, a farming conference and a field day. It combines science and technology with ancient wisdom, provides a respectful place for lively discussion, an audience as interesting as the speakers and an excellent menu of local food, drinks and music, all on a beautiful, regeneratively-managed farm.

GROUNDED is also Australia's only annual, roaming food and farming festival, held in a different farm location every year, so each festival is a unique, unmissable event celebrating local expertise and culture with an inspiring line up of speakers.

In 2026, with the support of the local Upper Barwon and Central Otway Landcare Networks, following successful festivals in Tasmania and Western Australia, GROUNDED FESTIVAL will be held at leading regenerative farm, Yan Yan Gurt West, in the Victorian Otway Ranges, two hours from Melbourne in an area renowned for regenerative agroforestry, tourism, local hospitality and great food and wine.

Tickets are on sale now - head to the GROUNDED website for information on speakers, the location, and to secure your spot today.