To be present, in place; connected to land, community, and self. Sensing our environment and the subtle nuances within it. Embracing technologies that help us understand and connect more deeply to the earth.

For me, the journey always begins with ‘Sense’. It’s about deep listening, about paying close attention to the subtle language of the land. In a world that’s always rushing, I choose to pause, observe, and try to understand the intricate dance of nature before I take a single step.

This is where technology finds its true purpose in my philosophy. I use modern sensors and data analysis not to dominate or control nature, but to understand it more intimately. Think of it as a translator, helping me decipher the stories told by the soil, the water, and the air. What are the nutrient levels in this patch of earth? How does the temperature fluctuate throughout the day? What are the unique microclimates that exist on my property?

‘Sense’ is my bridge between the digital and the organic. It provides the foundation of knowledge upon which I build everything else. By gathering this data, I’m not seeking to replace my intuition, but to inform it. I’m augmenting the timeless wisdom of the farmer with the precision of modern technology.

This is “Tech4Good” in its most fundamental form. It’s technology used in service of life, to foster a deeper connection and a more responsible stewardship of the environment we all share. Through ‘Sense’, I learn to work in harmony with nature, not against it, ensuring that my actions are both intentional and regenerative.

Here, we explore how open data, IoT, and community-driven projects can help us to better understand our world. We share our experiences with The Things Network South Australia, the Growing Data Foundation, and our own experiments with sensor networks for regenerative practices.