The Australian Soil Judging Competition
Soil Judging Competitions are practical training and networking opportunities for aspiring soil professionals.
What to Expect:
- Soil pits, soil pits and soil pits!
- Hands-on field assessments
- Professional development and networking opportunities
- Expert guidance from the soil science industry professionals
- Team and individual competitions
- Social activities
Registration Includes:
- Welcome function
- Competition materials
- Transport to sites
- Catering during competition (lunches)
- Competition shirt
- Awards ceremony
Program Outline
Registrations NOW OPEN for 2026!
The 2026 competition is being held in the Mandurah region of Western Australia, between the 28 October – 1st November 2026.
The competition immediately precedes the Soil Science Australia 2026 National Soils Conference, in Perth, WA.
Soil Judging Competition Program:
- Wednesday 28 October: Welcome function at the Mandurah Foreshore from 5 pm
- Thursday 29 October: Training Day 1 Nanga Farm – 6 km south of Dwellingup
- Friday 30 October: Training Day 2 Nanga Farm – 6 km south of Dwellingup
- Saturday 31 October: Competition Day and end of event gathering at The Bridge Hotel Mandurah.
- Sunday 1 November – SJC Awards presentation at SSA 2026 National Soils Conference Welcome Reception
Participant Registrations are now open:
- Student (SSA member): $140 (inc GST)
- Student (non-member): $180 (inc GST)
- Working Professional (SSA member): $180 (inc GST)
- Working Professional (non-member): $240 (inc GST)
Registration includes welcome function, competition shirt, lunch and morning/afternoon tea and bus transport each day picking up from Mandurah central location.
Registrations close on the 4th of September 2026.
- For any questions and additional requirements, please email soiljudge@soilscienceaustralia.org.au
Getting to Mandurah
Train from Perth Airport to Mandurah (~1.5 hours from airport, via Perth CBD) – tickets $3.50 per person one way. There is a connecting bus from the Mandurah train station to the Mandurah city centre every 15 minutes.
Hire car from Perth CBD or airport to Mandurah (~1hr from CBD).
Accommodation Options
Teams are responsible for booking their own accommodation. It is recommended to stay in Mandurah if you are catching the bus each day. Bus will leave Mandurah at 7 am and return to Mandurah at the end of the day.
- Mandurah Caravan and Tourist Park
- Mandurah Coastal Holiday Park
- Airbnb’s and short stay accommodation (noting pickups will be from a central location – proximity to the foreshore is advantage)
- Mandurah and surrounds hotels
Sponsorship
Partner with us for the 2026 Australian Soil Judging Competition and connect directly with the next generation of soil scientists and land managers.
This nationally recognised event brings together students, early-career professionals, researchers, and industry leaders for a high-impact, hands-on experience. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase your organisation, build meaningful connections, and demonstrate your commitment to the future of soil science in Australia.
Our past competitions have been made possible through the support of government, research, industry, and professional organisations. A range of tailored sponsorship options are available, each designed to maximise your visibility and engagement.
Download our sponsorship prospectus to explore the opportunities and find the right fit for your organisation.
Keen to support the next generation of soil scientists?
We’re looking for volunteers to help with setup, pack down, transport, and the many behind-the-scenes tasks that make the Soil Judging Competition run smoothly.
Whether you’re a seasoned soil scientist or simply passionate about the field, your support is invaluable.
