Joaquín Pillado joins Kangaroo Island Landscape Board

Originally from central Argentina’s Pampas region — one of the country’s most productive agricultural and livestock areas — Joaquín brings with him a rich background in agronomy, a deep respect for the land, and a passion for sustainable farming systems.

Growing up surrounded by farmland and strong community ties, Joaquín developed an early appreciation for the interconnectedness of people, place, and the environment. He went on to study Agronomy at the University of Buenos Aires, specialising in organic and agroecological production.

“I believe agriculture should be ecologically responsible and economically viable,” Joaquín says. “Sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s about supporting farmers to stay engaged with their land, share knowledge across generations, and thrive within systems that value their contribution.”

In his new role, Joaquín will work closely with local landholders to connect them with leading agricultural specialists and up-to-date information from across the country. His focus is on helping producers implement sustainable practices that improve both profitability and productivity, with support available in the following areas:

• Soil, plant, and animal health
• Technical advice, information, and funding opportunities
• Establishing demonstration sites
• Property Management Planning
• Soil health & soil biology assessments and testing
• Sap testing
• Visual Soil Analysis (VSA), soil chemistry testing & analysis
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
• Plant nutrition & fertility
• Soil amendments (compost, lime, gypsum, fertilisers)
• Soil amelioration (drainage, deep ripping, cover crops, tillage)
• Foliar and biological fertilisers
• Management and planning of pastures, grasslands, and grazing

Joaquín’s professional experience spans a range of production systems, always with a focus on long-term sustainability, ecosystem health, and community engagement. His new role on Kangaroo Island gives him the opportunity to continue that work in a landscape that strongly aligns with his values.

He says he’s been deeply impressed by the commitment and investment of Kangaroo Island farmers in land care practices that promote biodiversity on their properties — something that reflects a strong and a deep connection to the land.

“Kangaroo Island is incredibly inspiring,” he adds. “It’s a place where land management and agriculture go hand-in-hand with protecting biodiversity, improving soil health, and staying deeply connected to community.”

Outside of work, Joaquín enjoys camping, hiking, surfing, and being immersed in nature — making Kangaroo Island a natural fit both professionally and personally.

The Kangaroo Island Landscape Board is excited to have Joaquín on board and looks forward to the valuable contributions he’ll make in supporting local producers, sharing knowledge, and helping to build a thriving agricultural future for the island.

If you are seeking free information and resources to improve the productivity and profitability of your property, please contact Joaquin via the KI Landscape Board on 8553 2476.