Media releases

 A Wimmera project led by Federation University is one of 84 successful proposals to receive funding to adopt innovative practices to increase farm productivity, profitability and protection of natural resources.

The Wimmera Broadacre Farming Net Zero Emissions Project has picked up $98,000 from the Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management, David Littleproud, in the latest round of Commonwealth Smart Farms Small grants.

This project will demonstrate how carbon emissions calculators can be applied to Wimmera broadacre farms to identify the most economically and environmentally advantageous on-farm carbon abatement strategies.

It will apply the most appropriate carbon accounting models at the individual farm level to quantify the contribution of specific farming practices and activities to emissions, including costs and revenue opportunities, using farm business accounts.

The project aims to increase the sustainability of broadacre farms in the region by demonstrating the value proposition of low emissions farming practices through on-farm application at the Longerenong College farm and two other operating farms.

Farmers will develop the capacity and be encouraged to adopt a zero emissions approach through extension and engagement activities.

Federation’s project partners are Wimmera Landcare Groups, Wimmera Development Association, Longerenong College and SPS Consulting.

The federal government is investing almost $6.5 million through the fourth round of Smart Farms Small Grants that aim to improve environmental, economic and social outcomes through better sustainability, productivity and profitability in the food, fibre and forestry industries.

Quotes attributable to Federation University Management Lecturer Craig Hurley

“This grant will provide a very timely application of carbon calculator tools to assist Wimmera farmers to identify the biggest bang for their buck, in terms of effective and efficient strategies to reduce carbon emissions from agriculture in the Wimmera.”

“Federation University is proud to be partnering with the Wimmera Development Association and other Wimmera stakeholders to identify key strategies to assist the Wimmera region to transition to a net zero carbon emissions future.”

Quotes attributable to Wimmera Development Association Executive Director Chris Sounness

“This project is a great start in supporting the Wimmera Southern Mallee farming community understand how they can move along the pathway to net zero emissions.  Net zero emissions will become an important factor to ensure our Agricultural products meet both domestic and International expectations.”

Quotes attributable to Federation University Dean, School of Engineering, IT and Physical Sciences, Professor Syed Islam

“Federation University has a commitment to achieving long-term sustainability and net zero emissions across all our regions and this aligns closely with our work on circular economies from The Wimmera to Gippsland.”