Turf Talk by Lawn Solutions Australia
Join us in celebrating all things lawns! Our podcast provides lawn tips and advice on all things lawns and gardening. Whether you are looking for lawn care advice, lawn care products or turf variety information – we have you covered. Lawn Solutions Australia is a group of Australia’s best and most experienced turf growers. We have a national network, so we can provide knowledge relating to varying climates and conditions, about the different grass varieties available and recommend lawn care products to help you get the amazing lawn you have been dreaming of.
E87 - Nathan Bradbury from Nuturf
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Nathan Bradbury from Nuturf to chat about his journey through the turf industry — from where it all started on the frozen golf courses of the Southern Highlands in NSW to the lessons he’s picked up along the way living and working on the world's best in the United States to revitalising one of Australia's eminent private clubs, The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney. Nathan shares stories from his career, insights into the evolution of the industry, and what continues to drive his passion for turf, peop...
E86 - Autumn Lawncare, Winter Preparation and what's on at LSA!
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In this episode, Joe and Nath chat all things winter lawn care — what you should be doing right now, common mistakes to avoid, and how to keep your lawn looking healthy and green through the colder months.
They also recap a huge week for Lawn Solutions Australia, including the LSA conference and field day and what's coming up.
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E85 - Bill Carraway of The Turfgrass Group
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Bill Carraway of The Turfgrass Group.
Bill shares his unconventional path—breaking away from a family of doctors and lawyers to find his calling in the dirt. After being kicked out of his home at 17, he built his first landscaping empire from scratch using nothing but a lawnmower and a credit card to becoming the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at The Turfgrass Group, focusing on the development and licensing of high-performance proprietary cultivars.
From golf courses to turf farming across the...
E84 - US Roots to Building an Career in Aussie Turf with Nathan Gisi/MusTurf
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On this episode, Joe sits down with Nathan Gisi from MusTurf. Nathan’s path into the turf industry is anything but typical—starting out mowing lawns as a teenager in the US before moving into large-scale construction projects before shifting into landscaping, building experience in irrigation and construction before launching his own business, Lawncrafters.
After relocating to Sydney, Nathan worked in data centre infrastructure before stepping into his current role with MusTurf, managing turf prep and installation across residential, sports and parkland projects at some of Australias most iconic location
We...
E83 - The History of Turf Farming In Australia
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In this episode, Joe and Simon turn the clock back on Australia’s turf industry and uncover how it all really began. Long before turf farms became a staple of suburban development, early imports of kikuyu and couch in the 1930s were quietly reshaping how Australians grew and used grass — from racecourses to backyards
Fast forward into the post-war boom, where a surge in population, housing, and infrastructure turned turf from a groundskeeping practice into a full-blown industry. With suburbs spreading and demand for instant lawns exploding, those early warm-season grasses beca...
E82 - Automating a Turf Farm with Marcus Rogers
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In this episode Joe welcomes back Marcus Rogers from Turfco.
Marcus returns to revisit his earlier predictions on Sabanto’s automated robotic mowers and how they’re shaping the future of turf farming. He also shares a bold new outlook on AI-driven “green on green” spraying technology, and what it could mean for the next wave of on-farm innovation.
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E81 - Footy Season Kickoff, Sports Fields and What's On at LSA
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Joe and Nathan are back just as the footy season kicks off, and there’s plenty happening both on and off the field. The guys chat about the buzz around the season opener, the spectacle of the NRL in Las Vegas, the fields themselves and their premiership predictions for the year (see below for prosperity).
As well as the footy, the guys chat about the current weather conditions affecting lawns, an update on Stampede Hybrid Buffalo and the upcoming Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.
Joe's NRL Premier prediction: "Pe...
E80 - Simon Elsworth, Head of Syngenta Professional Solutions
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Simon Elsworth, Head of Professional Solutions at Syngenta, to talk leadership, innovation, and where the turf industry is heading next.
Simon unpacks how global R&D connects with real-world challenges on Aussie soil, the evolving demands on turf managers, and what it takes to deliver solutions that actually perform. A sharp, insightful chat for anyone working in turf and looking to stay one step ahead.
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E79 - Shelley Fincher UGA, Turfgrass Licensing
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Joe sits down with Shelley Fincher from the University of Georgia (UGA) to talk turf licensing and what it means to buy a licensed turf variety. Shelley shares her journey at UGA from her science background into law and what the future holds.
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E78 - Merrick van As/ The South African Lawn
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In this episode Joe sits down with Merrick van As, from the South African Lawn YouTube channel for a chat that spans continents but speaks the same turf language. From cool season turf battles, setting fire to lawns, the emerging lawn culture in South Africa and how lawn care communities are growing worldwide.
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E77 - Joe and Nath Are Back for 2026: What’s Been Happening, Summer of Cricket, Industry Updates & What’s Next
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Joe and Nath are back for 2026, and there’s plenty to catch up on!
In this episode, the boys run through what’s been happening to lawns over the last month, the Summer of cricket and what's to come in the turf industry in 2026
Whether you’re in the industry or just keen to stay in the loop, this episode is a great way to get up to speed.
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E76 - End Of Year Wrap with Joe and Nath
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It's (almost) the end of the year so we thought there was no time like the present to sit down and take a look back at the year that was. From production facility expansions, trade shows and conferences to what's going on in the world of sport (and sports turf) as well as some shoutouts to new members joining LSA and those that have celebrated milestones this year... It's been a massive one so grab a drink with Joe and Nath to finish off the TurfTalk year.
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E75 - Dr. Brian Schwartz is back!
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In this episode, Nathan Edwards fills in for regular host Joe and welcomes back our very first podcast guest Dr. Brian Schwartz, Professor - Crop & Soil Sciences at the University of Georgia.
Dr. Schwartz is one of the leading minds in warm-season turfgrass breeding. Dr. Schwartz shares updates on the development of TifTuf, insights into Zoysia Australis, and the latest advancements in zoysiagrass breeding.
He also reflects on his journey in turfgrass research and the ongoing innovation happening within the University of Georgia’s breeding program.
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E74 - Toro Australia with Paul Prout
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Paul Prout, National Corporate Account Manager for Toro Australia, to discuss his journey in the turf industry and future of turf management. Paul shares insights into how Toro is leading innovation in mowing technology and smart automation to make turf care more efficient and sustainable.
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E73 - Mick Pascoe, GCSAA Class A Superintendent
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In this episode Joe chats with Mick Pascoe, a seasoned golf course superintendent whose career has taken him across Australia, the UK and US, Barbados, Jamaica, Panama, Vietnam and Indonesia. Mick shares insights from decades in the turf industry, discussing the challenges of managing world-class courses in every environment imaginable, his push to use Sir Grange Zoysia on courses, and his passion for green keeping.
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E72 - Master Greenkeeper Alan FitzGerald
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In this episode, Joe from Lawn Solutions Australia sits down with Master Greenkeeper Alan FitzGerald, who is currently leading turf operations at Rehoboth Beach Country Club in Delaware. Before his appointment there in 2023, Alan spent 19 years as superintendent at LedgeRock Golf Club in Pennsylvania.
With over 30 years of experience across some of the world’s most prestigious private clubs—including Mount Juliet (Ireland), Loch Lomond (Scotland), and Pine Valley (New Jersey)—Alan brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into turf management at the hi...
E71 - Propagating a new Turfgrass variety with Scott Rowe
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Scott Rowe to talk about the fascinating (and labour intensive process) of propagating a brand-new turfgrass variety.
Scott shares his insights into the science and patience behind the process — from the very first buffalo runner through to large-scale production. Joe and Scott also discuss the challenges of ensuring consistency, the health of the plant and what it takes to propagate the sheer volume of plants . Whether you’re in the turf industry or just curious about how a new variety gets to market, this conve...
E70 - Autonomous Tractors with Cory Spaetti/Sabanto
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In this episode, Joe is joined by Cory Spaetti, Chief Operating Officer of Sabanto -an innovative agricultural autonomy company pioneering automation kits for tractors.
We dive into the future of robotic automation and how this breakthrough technology is set to transform the turf industry in Australia, particularly within large-scale commercial operations. With Sabanto leading the charge, this conversation offers a fascinating look at how automation is reshaping efficiency, productivity, and the very way we think about turf management.
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E69 - Spring on the Farm with Megan Ford from AUSGAP
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Spring marks a critical period on the turf farm, with increased growth, higher demand, and a sharper focus on quality assurance. In this episode, Joe is joined by Megan from AUSGAP to discuss the vital role the Australian Genetic Assurance Program plays in underpinning industry standards. From genetic purity and traceability to on-farm auditing and best practice guidelines, Megan explains how AUSGAP supports growers in maintaining product integrity and meeting market expectations.
They also take a step back from the farm to talk about spring in domestic yards—covering key practices lik...
E68 - Dr Jim Kerns - Professor of Plant Pathology
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In this episode, Joe is joined by Dr. Jim Kerns, Professor of Plant Pathology at NC State University, to discuss turfgrass disease management.
Dr. Kerns shares insights from his extensive research on fungal pathogens, seasonal disease patterns, and integrated management strategies as well as his hopes for the future of disease identification and management in turfgrass.
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E67 - Callum Cameron / Remuera Golf Club
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In this episode, Joe is joined by Callum Cameron, Golf Course Superintendent at Remuera Golf Club in Auckland, New Zealand. Callum shares insights into the unique challenges and rewards of managing turf in a high-traffic, year-round golfing environment. From renovation strategies to sustainability initiatives, Callum offers a practical look at what it takes to keep one of New Zealand’s busiest golf courses in top condition.
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E66 - Dr Chase Straw - Professor of Turfgrass at Penn State University
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In this episode, Joe is joined by Dr. Chase Straw, Professor of Turfgrass Science at Penn State University. Dr Straw shares his journey through the turf industry, from his early interests in sports turf to his current research on precision turfgrass management. They discuss the latest advancements in technology, data-driven turf care, and the future of sustainable turf practices.... as well as plenty of basketball talk.
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E65 - Holly Abell/PGG Wrightson Turf NZ
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In this episode, Joe is joined by Holly Abell from PGG Wrightson working out of New Zealand – Holly is a passionate newcomer to the turf industry with a diverse background across golf courses, sports fields, and turf research. Holly shares her journey through the turf industry, from hands-on roles to the challenges and opportunities of managing turf in different climates. They also chat about the similarities between the Aussie and Kiwi turf scenes, what’s driving the next generation of turf professionals, and Holly’s hopes for the future of the industry. It’s a grea...
E64 - Buxus, Palms, Landscaping & More with Jason Hodges
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In this episode Joe sits down for a catch up with Jason Hodges for a wide-ranging chat covering his Buxus farm, life in landscaping and his dedication to supporting young talent through TAFE. Joe and Jason also chat about his early days as a ball boy with the North Sydney Bears football team and their future in Perth. Tune in for an inspiring mix of horticulture, turf, education, and sport!
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E63 - New Lawn Care Products with Joe and Simon
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In this episode, Joe and Simon sit down to chat about some exciting new additions to the Lawn Solutions lawn care range including the new 10kg Lawn Launcher, ProPlus Mini Prill Fertiliser, the pre-emergent protection offered by Barricade and the new and improved formulation of ColourGuard Plus. Whether you're a keen home lawn enthusiast, a turf professional or a landscaper, there’s plenty of practical info packed into this one!
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E62 - Winter and Your Lawn with Joe and Nath
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Joe and Nath are back again to talk all things winter and your lawn! Mowing, maintenance, weeds, pigments, plus much more on how to keep it green and healthy through the cooler months.
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E61 - Stampede Hybrid Buffalo with Joe and Simon
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In this episode Joe and Simon dive into the story behind the soon to be released to market - Stampede Hybrid Buffalo. They explore the breeding process, the challenges of importing turf varieties and the propagation techniques that are required to have a new turf variety ready for sale.
From lab to lawn, get an insight to what it takes to bring the first hybrid buffalo grass to market.
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E60 - Building a Career on Turf with Caine James
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In this episode, Joe chats with Caine James about his time managing the sports fields and public spaces for Maitland City Council, the challenges they face, and the strategies they use to keep public spaces looking their best year-round as well as being one of the first to begin using TifTuf. They also discuss how Caine got his start in the turf industry as an apprentice and his time at Nuturf, a career built on turf!
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E59 - Soil Science with Dr Mick Battam
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In this episode, Joe is joined by soil scientist Dr. Mick Battam from AgEnviro Solutions for a chat about what’s really happening beneath your turf. From backyard lawns to professional sports fields, They dig into the importance of soil structure, managing compaction, drainage and practical ways to improve turf performance. Whether you're in the commercial sportsturf industry or a home lawn enthusiast, there's plenty to take away from this one.
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E58 - Everything Couch Grass with Joe and Simon
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Joe and Simon are back with a deep dive into everything Couch (Bermuda)
They discuss the benefits of couch grass, its maintenance requirements and why it’s a popular choice for lawns and sports fields. Whether you're a homeowner or a professional turf manager, this episode is packed with insights to help you get the best out of your couch grass.
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E57 - Everything Autumn with Joe and Nath
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Joe and Nath are back again to share advice on some current lawn issues and some Autumn lawn care tips to get your lawn looking its best heading into the cooler months. From fertilising and mowing to dealing with seasonal weeds and preparing for Winter, as well as some new products we have available, there's something for every lawn lover in this episode.
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E56 - Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney with Anthony Bashall
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Anthony Bashall from the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney to explore the world of turf and landscape management in one of Australia’s most iconic green spaces. Anthony shares insights into maintaining high-quality turf, the challenges of urban horticulture, and the innovative practices used to keep the gardens thriving year-round.
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E55 - Everything Zoysia Grass with Joe and Nath
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Joe and Nath are back with a deep dive into Zoysia grass!
In this episode we explore how Zoysia has evolved from its origins in Asia to becoming a go-to choice for sports turf managers, golf courses and stadiums around the globe. We'll discuss its unique qualities, why it's gaining popularity in backyards and why it makes an ideal choice for beautiful, sustainable green spaces. Whether you're a turf enthusiast or a casual lawn lover, this episode has something for you!
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E54 - Billy Skaggs / ITGAP (International Turfgrass Genetic Assurance Program)
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In this episode, Joe sits down with our first international guest of the year, Billy Skaggs from the great state of Georgia in the USA!
They discuss how ITGAP (International Turfgrass Genetic Assurance Program) ensures the highest standards of turfgrass quality and certification worldwide, the importance of buying from ITGAP/AUSGAP certified growers, the staggering scale of turf (and peanut) production in the USA and Billy's love of Australia, its landscape and the people.
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E53 - Rosemount Turf with Penny Boyle
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In this episode Joe chats with Penny from Rosemount Turf about the rich history of their family farm, from its beginnings in the sugar cane industry to its transformation into a thriving turf business. They discuss the challenges of adapting to change, the role of innovation in the turf industry, and how the next generation is shaping the future of the business.
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E52 - Summer and Your Lawn with Joe and Nath
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Joe and Nath wrap up the year with everything you need to know about summer and your lawn!
From watering tips and mowing strategies to hydrophobia and preparing for those scorching hot days, Joe and Nath share expert advice to help your lawn thrive during the hottest months of the year.
Whether you’re a seasoned lawn enthusiast or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights you won’t want to miss.
Lawn Solutions watering guide
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E51 - The Lawn and Garden with Dan Docherty/Syngenta
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Dan Docherty from Syngenta Australia to dive into the science and practical applications behind three of Syngenta’s key turf and garden management products. They discuss how Primo Maxx helps to regulate turf growth, the benefits of Acelepryn GR and the features of Trimmit, a growth regulator for plants and hedges. Ideal for turf managers, landscapers, and passionate lawn enthusiasts, this episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for achieving a better looking yard for less!
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E50 - Sports Turf with Joe and Simon
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Simon Adermann to talk about the ‘turfgrass revolution’ that is happening in the sports turf industry. Joe and Simon discuss the work that is happening with newly developed sports turf varieties like TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda and how these grasses are changing turf maintenance for the better.
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E49 - Trimax Mowers with Andrew Doyle
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In this episode, Joe sits down with Andrew Doyle from Trimax, a global leader in high-quality commercial mowing equipment. Andrew shares insights into the innovation behind Trimax's History, products and how their technology is revolutionizing turf care across sports fields, parks, and large-scale landscapes.
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E48 - Paul Jackson from Syngenta
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In this episode, Joe dives into the world of turf management with Paul Jackson from Syngenta. With years of expertise in the industry Paul shares his insights on keeping turf surfaces in top condition, innovative pest control methods, and the future of turf care. Whether you're a turf professional or simply curious about the science behind healthy playing surfaces, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for everyone.
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