Agriculture and the Environment Unite in Rockhampton’s Fitzroy Food Bowl
Making Water Work – A Groundbreaking Initiative for Sustainable Development
In an inspiring collaborative effort, the Rockhampton Regional Council has taken the lead in a visionary project to safeguard the Great Barrier Reef while advancing sustainable agriculture. The “Making Water Work – Reef Water Quality” project promises to bring a wave of positive change to the Fitzroy Food Bowl.
A Pioneering Project
Under the Queensland Government’s Reef Regulations and the Rookwood Weir Land Management Code of Practice, emerging and expanding agricultural irrigation developments must devise individualised farm plans to manage nutrients, sediments, and pesticides.
To aid local irrigators in this endeavour, the Making Water Work project, spearheaded by Advance Rockhampton, has been launched. The focus is on delivering free-of-charge farm plans and providing essential tools and training to enhance water quality outcomes.
The Benefits Are Clear
The Reef Water Quality project, with its individual farm, plans that align with regulations, case studies to improve water quality, and a wide-ranging sediment and nutrient plan, will help foster new and expanding agriculture while preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem. This initiative is vital for safeguarding the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.
An Easy Step Forward
For those looking to participate in this transformative project, applying for a farm plan is a straightforward process. Express your interest through multiple channels, including visiting the Advance Rockhampton Office, calling their dedicated team, emailing, or using their website. Act now, as expressions of interest are open until November 17, 2023.
A Collaborative Triumph
The Making Water Work: Reef Water Quality project boasts a team of esteemed partners, including Advance Rockhampton, Sunwater, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), and the Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA). This cross-government cooperation showcases the commitment of all levels of authority to the Rockhampton region’s prosperity.
Unlocking Potential
Anthony Curro, Senior Project Manager of the CRCNA, underscores the vital role water development plays in sustainable development in Northern Australia. As Rockhampton leads this critical work, the potential for development and healthy ecosystems to coexist becomes evident, promising to boost agricultural value while enhancing environmental sustainability.
Urging Active Participation
Fleur Anderson, Regional Director of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, encourages new and existing irrigators to engage in the project actively. Not only will this initiative enhance on-farm profitability and crop yields, but it will also contribute to improving the water quality flowing into the reef.
Looking Back, Moving Forward
In 2019, Rockhampton Regional Council, in partnership with the CRCNA and DAF, initiated the groundbreaking “Making Water Work” program. This multifaceted program has focused on the Fitzroy Food Bowl, working on visionary land use planning, strong water governance, and nutrient management to achieve reef water quality requirements.
