I need to put this into practice. My backyard is rife with thatched grass, weeds, mossy compacted soil and heaven knows what else. And don’t get me started on the dog poop!

https://www.handyman.net.au/winter-lawn-care-guide

From the article:

Do the maintenance

A little regular work through winter can reduce your list of lawn problems come spring, so survey the yard now and make a list of essential tasks.

RAKE UP any autumn leaves left on the lawn as they shade and ultimately kill off the grass below.

DEHATCH by running a metal rake over turf areas to remove older grass and mulch build-up, to encourage new and thick growth in spring.

CONSIDER PRUNING or thinning large trees to allow light to reach the grass underneath the canopies, helping the lawn to grow.

AVOID WATERING unless it is very dry, as wet lawns in winter are more susceptible to fungal problems. Water in the morning, if necessary.

EDGE THE BORDERS of the lawn or remodel beds now when the weather is cool, making heavy jobs easier.

REMOVE WINTER GRASS by hand, as it will stand out as bright green against the duller colour of the lawn.

APPLY SEAWEED TONIC each month to boost the lawn’s resistance to fungal problems and cold weather.

USE A HERBICIDE formulated for bindiis and other broadleaf weeds if this has been a problem in summer, treating the lawn before spring.

CONTROL WEEDS regularly as they still thrive during winter, removing them by hand or spraying.