Trailblazing Gippsland farmers are using artificial intelligence (AI) and smart tech to save water, money and protect local waterways while inspiring others to do the same under the latest round of Irrigation Demonstration Trials. 

In a joint initiative between West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (the CMA) and Agriculture Victoria, six farmers in Central Gippsland have received grants to test irrigation technology and then spread the word about what they learn.

“The Irrigation Demonstration Trials Program is specifically designed to showcase Gippsland’s amazing farmers who are trialling and implementing new and innovative technologies and practices on their farms for the benefit of the whole region,” explained Anthony Goode, Sustainable Irrigation Program Coordinator at West Gippsland CMA. 

“These farmers are stepping forward and essentially acting as guinea pigs to help us understand how technology like AI, GPS guidance and solar powered automation can work best on irrigation systems in Gippsland, helping other irrigators make decisions about whether the technology is right for them.” 

For example, at Rainbow Creek Nuts in Cowwarr, farmers Chris and Lisa are piloting a data-driven irrigation system that combines sensors with automation – and ultimately AI – to deliver precisely the right amount of water at the right time.  

“The project will help give me a real-time picture of what the orchard is doing – in the soil, the trees and in the weather - so that I use my water on live signals and not guesswork,” said Chris. 

Other farms hosting demonstrations are Jennings Potatoes in Thorpdale, Berry Dairy in Maffra, and dairy farms in Newry, Sale and Tinamba and their stories will be shared across the project. 

Agriculture Victoria Regional Manager Irrigation for Gippsland, Sarah Killury, said: “While each project is different, they share a similar goal and that’s to drive irrigation best practice in the region while protecting the environment.” 

“We’re excited to see the latest demonstration trials get underway and encourage all irrigators to follow the journey over the next two years. We’ll be sharing progress and results from all six sites through regular video updates, farm field days and newsletters.” said Sarah. 

This program is a part of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action’s Sustainable Irrigation Program (SIP), implemented in Gippsland by Agriculture Victoria and West Gippsland CMA.  

Find out more about the work we do and sign up to our e-news for updates.