Waterwise for the future

Local Land Services (LLS) are supporting intensive horticulture growers in Greater Sydney and North Coast LLS regions to build resilience through improved irrigation practices. This includes:

• hands-on training, irrigation system assessments, and on-farm demonstrations
• a focus on protected cropping and intensive horticulture systems
• upskilling training for both growers and private sector advisors in best-practice water and nutrient management.

Project objectives

The Waterwise for the future project aims to:

• accelerate adoption of climate-smart and sustainable practices
• support growers to optimise irrigation, drainage, and nutrient inputs
• support growers in future-proofing their operations through practical, evidence-based solutions
• build climate resilience in the horticulture sector
• upskill growers and industry advisors to manage protected cropping and intensive systems more effectively.

Project background

Over the past 30 years, intensive horticulture has transitioned from in-ground farming to protected cropping and precision irrigation systems. These changes, driven by climate and market pressures, have created new production environments that require updated knowledge and skills.

While these systems offer greater control and efficiency, many growers and advisors face a knowledge gap in managing water and nutrients effectively under changing climate conditions.

Project delivery

The program uses a hands-on, grower-first approach to build skills and confidence including:

• irrigation system performance assessments
• on-farm training sessions tailored to local conditions and grower needs
• demonstrations of cost-effective irrigation and drainage solutions
• training for industry professionals working with horticulture clients
• customised advice on fertiliser, irrigation scheduling, and water use efficiency

Two targeted training streams are currently under development:

• Irrigation Fundamentals – For growers new to irrigation or looking to strengthen their core knowledge
• Irrigation Advanced – For experienced growers and advisors looking to improve performance and sustainability.

Training will be delivered through workshops, field days, and digital resources across demonstration sites in both regions.

Project timeline

Duration: 4 years

Delivery start: 2025

Training calendar and event dates: To be announced

Work underway

• Events have been held on the North Coast with growers and industry.
• Demonstration sites are currently being setup in both regions with a range of activities planned for the 2025-2026 irrigation season.
• Development of an excel tool for data collection and calculation, as part of an Irrigation Assessment/Audit which uniformly distributes results. The tools are designed to be downloaded to your computer and uploaded into google drive for rapid input via phone/tablet when out in the field.

How to get involved

Are you an irrigator or grower in Greater Sydney or the North Coast? Whether you are just starting with protected cropping or looking to fine-tune your current system, Waterwise for the future is here to support you with upcoming workshops, field days and training opportunities.

Register your interest

Funding and partnerships  

This project is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust.