PROJECT

Reefwise Farming

Precision Irrigation, Revegetation, and Natural Capital

Through collaboration between the Burnett Mary Regional Group, local growers, industry bodies and regional stakeholders, the Reefwise Farming project aims to:

Support long-term agricultural productivity and sustainability in the Burnett Mary by supporting irrigation improvements that maximise nutrient uptake and crop performance

Revegetate buffer zones to support waterways and reduce runoff

Build industry understanding and access to natural capital

The Reefwise Farming Project, an initiative of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water of the Australian Government, is designed to support sustainable agricultural practices that improve water quality outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef.

This project provides eligible horticultural, tree crop and sugarcane producers in the Lower Mary, Burnett, Burrum and Kolan catchments with:

A personalised farm map and irrigation report developed by specialist to help maximise productivity improvements

Up to $50,000, per ABN, for eligible precision irrigation upgrades

Revegetation of buffer zones;

Demonstration farm opportunities

Precision irrigation

This incentive provides 40 eligible producers with up to $50k, as a 50% co-contribution, towards approved project costs, for upgrading current systems to address irrigation-related productivity improvements, for example:

Automation and sensor systems
Improved delivery systems
Weather-based controllers
Fertigation adoption and upgrades
Control and remote monitoring technology

As part of determining funding opportunities, selected participants will receive an on-farm irrigation assessment conducted by a specialist, along with a tailored technical report, personalised farm map and practical recommendations. These outcomes will help identify opportunities for maximising irrigation impact and inform funding eligible changes or upgrade.

Revegetation

Reefwise Farming aims to revegetate waterways on 20 farms to stabilise banks, reduce runoff and improve water filtration. Native plantings on eligible land adjacent to irrigated farmland will be funded by the Reefwise Farming project.

Natural Capital

A tailored Natural Capital roadmap and support services will be provided to eligible participants to increase understanding of environmental markets and where they may fit for long term business strategy.

Demonstration Farms and Field Days

From the successful applicant pool farms will have the opportunity to nominate as representative demonstration farms, totalling three.

They will have access to additional funding and expertise and may act as hosts for workshops and field days.

Want to be involved?

EOI have closed, if you’d like to receive an update should they re-open please let us know via email at admin@bmrg.org.au”

Breakfast Q&A with the Reefwise Farming team

Upcoming Events

Our Reefwise Farming team will host short information session in Maryborough, Childers and Bundaberg after the release of the expressions of interest.