$2.5 million for Burdekin cane growers through Reef Trust

NOVEMBER 17, 2015: The Federal Government will provide $2.5 million to help sugarcane farmers improve nitrogen and irrigation management practices in the Burdekin region through the the Reef Trust Tender – Burdekin. Sugar cane growers are invited to register their interest in this project which will deliver significant benefits to the Burdekin region and the environment.It will safeguard productive capacity in the region for the future, improve the productivity of farms and protect our environment.Growers know what works best for their properties so they will have the flexibility to tailor their project based on the individual needs of their farms.Support will be available to farmers through the project’s local service provider, NQ Dry Tropics. They will work closely with the local cane industry to provide support to farmers and assist with the implementation of the project.NQ Dry Tropics is recognised throughout the Burdekin region as a trusted and effective operator and brings to this project strong local and technical expertise.Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt said investment in these measures would mitigate the negative effects of farm run-off on the Great Barrier Reef.“This is another great opportunity and a win-win for sugarcane farmers to trial new farm management practices,” Minister Hunt said.“Surplus nitrogen from farm fertilisers can make its way to the coast and have a detrimental impact on reef water quality.“By improving the efficiency of nitrogen use on farm, growers can improve the efficiency of their business as well as help the reef.”The funding is part of the Australian Government's $140 million Reef Trust initiative to provide innovative, targeted investments that improve the health and resilience of the Great Barrier Reef.Expressions of interest must be registered before 7 December 2015. A reverse auction will then be opened, where registered farmers can apply for grants of up to $500,000. Bids representing best value for money will be prioritised for funding.For more information on this project and how to apply, visit the NQ Dry Tropics’ website at http://www.nqdrytropics.com.au/reef-trust-tender/For more information, or to submit your expression of interest, go to www.environment.gov.au/reef-trust-tender-burdekin