Latest News

• Add My News • Search Old News

Gippsland › Latest news › West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority

Irrigators in Lake Wellington catchment are encouraged to apply for Sustainable Irrigation 2022/23 grant of up to $30,000

Irrigators in or near the Macalister Irrigation Area (MIA), can now apply to secure funding for farm plans or irrigation system upgrades.

By news@gippsland - 24th August 2022 - Back to News

Agriculture Victoria Irrigation extension officer, Alexis Killoran, said irrigators should now apply to the Central Gippsland Irrigation Efficiency Incentives Program. "We want to support as many irrigators as possible to upgrade their systems. Improving irrigation systems allows farmers to use their water entitlement better, save money and water, and increase farm productivity," she said.

From left to right, Ash Oldham (SRW), Alan Clyne (Dairy Farmer), Alexis Killoren (Agriculture Victoria)

Grant application period

Miss Killoran said up to $10,000 per project is available for farm plans, with businesses able to apply for two seperate farm projects. "Irrigators wanting to upgrade their systems (flood to spray, reuse systems or best practice surface irrigation) can apply for up to $20,000 for on project per business. Applications for irrigation upgrade projects close on Wednesday 31 August, and must be supported by a current and approved farm plan." she said.

Ms Killoran added, "Applications for farm plan projects close once all funds are allocated, or on 31 August, whichever occurs first. If you've had farm planning or irrigation upgrades on your to-do list, we suggest getting your application in as soon as possible."

The Central Gippsland Irrigation Efficiency Incentives Program is run by the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and Agriculture Victoria, and funded by the state government's Sustainable Irrigation Program. You can apply for funding by visiting 'Irrigation Incentives Farm Planning' web page.

Pictures of West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

• Wellington Sustainability Festival returns with various workshops and family-friendly fun celebrating sustainable living in Sale on 14 March 2026
  The Wellington Sustainability Festival returns Saturday 14 March in Sale, offering workshops, garden tours, live music, kids’ activities, eco-market stalls, renewable energy displays, and family-friendly sustainable living experiences.
• Gippsland farmers gain access to expanded Irrigation Farm Plan Incentives across Lake Wellington catchment
  Gippsland farmers can now access expanded Irrigation Efficiency Incentives, covering up to 75% of farm plan costs, improving water efficiency, reducing nutrient losses, and supporting tailored upgrades across Lake Wellington Catchment.
• Wellington Shire Council invites Gippsland residents to free online webinar series in Sustainable, Energy-Efficient Homes on 26 February 2026
  Gippsland residents are invited to join a free 2026 Sustainable Living webinar series, offering practical advice on solar, batteries, electric homes, comfort, water, and climate-resilient design, delivered by Renew and local councils.
• Wellington Shire Council updates waste policy, introducing flexible three-bin system supporting Circular Economy 2026
  Wellington Shire updates its waste policy, introducing a flexible three-bin kerbside system from 2026, including FOGO, to reduce landfill, cut emissions, improve recycling, and empower residents to manage waste effectively.
• Wellington Shire Council invites open conversations on financial pressures impacting community services, roads, and facilities
  Wellington Shire Council faces rising costs, rate caps, and funding pressures, yet remains committed to delivering essential services and urging government reform to better support regional communities into the future.
• Wellington Shire Council invites community to celebrate Defence’s legacy with Freedom of Entry march and Army community day in Sale this October
  Wellington Shire Council invites residents to attend Sale’s Freedom of Entry march on 18 October and Army community day on 19 October, celebrating Defence’s historic connection with the local community.
• Wellington libraries upgrade with RFID technology, enabling faster borrowing and improved user experiences across all branches over six months
  Wellington libraries are upgrading with RFID technology, introducing self-loan stations, automated return chutes, and smart bins, improving borrowing efficiency, reducing manual handling, and allowing staff to focus on programs and services.
• Wellington Shire Council awards $130,997 to 27 community groups supporting events and volunteer initiatives across the Middle of Everywhere
  Wellington Shire Council has awarded $130,997 to 27 community groups supporting arts, events, sports, infrastructure, inclusion, and volunteer initiatives, strengthening participation and connection across the Middle of Everywhere region.
• Wellington Shire Council invites residents to provide feedback on draft 2026 Residential Road Plan until 13 March 2026
  Wellington Shire Council invites residents to provide feedback on the draft 2026 Residential Road Plan, focusing on Special Charge Schemes funding upgrades, with input closing Friday, 13 March 2026.
• Wellington Shire Council reopens $23M redeveloped Aqua Energy Leisure Centre, providing inclusive, modern and wellness facilities
  Wellington Shire Council has reopened the redeveloped $23 million Aqua Energy Leisure Centre in Sale, featuring inclusive aquatic, fitness, and wellness facilities, modern amenities, and accessible spaces for the whole community.
• Wellington Shire Council invites community to celebrate Parks Week with various free events from 28 February to 8 March 2026
  Wellington Shire celebrates Parks Week 2026 with free and low-cost events, including Baby’s Day Out, fitness sessions, markets, walks, and family activities, encouraging community connection and outdoor enjoyment.
• Wellington Shire Council joins global 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence, 25 November - 10 December 2025
  Wellington Shire Council invites the community to join events for 16 Days of Activism, promoting respect, preventing family violence, and raising awareness about gender equality and safety for all.
• Wellington Shire Council invites local businesses to free Defence 101 networking event in Port of Sale on 25 March 2026
  Wellington Shire Council and ODIS invite local businesses to a free Defence 101 event on 25 March, helping them explore opportunities to supply large organisations locally.
• Wellington Shire Council invites 12-24-year-olds to join 2026 Youth Council, shaping projects, advocacy, and advice
  Wellington Shire Council invites 12-24-year-olds to join the 2026 Youth Council, shaping projects, advocacy, and programs, including the Youth Art Prize, Live4Life initiatives, and youth engagement forums across the Shire.
• Wellington Shire Council proudly announces the $23M Aqua Energy Leisure Centre redevelopment opens 7 October 2025
  Wellington Shire Council is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated redevelopment of Aqua Energy Leisure Centre in Sale is complete, with the $23 million facility set to open officially to the public on Tuesday 7 October 2025.
• Wellington Shire Council responds to AKD Yarram closure, pledges support for 73 affected workers and community
  Wellington Shire Council expressed heartbreak over AKD Yarram’s closure, impacting 73 employees, pledging support, advocating state assistance, and encouraging redeployment and economic opportunities to sustain the community.
• Wellington Shire Council seeks feedback on the Domestic Animal Management Plan Review until 24 September 2025
  Wellington Shire Council's draft Domestic Animal Management Plan outlines priorities for responsible pet ownership, safety, and welfare, inviting community feedback from 28 August to 24 September 2025.
• Wellington Shire Council offers free green waste disposal to help residents reduce fire hazards this season
  Wellington Shire Council is urging property owners, particularly in coastal communities, to prepare for the fire danger period by taking advantage of its Fire Ready No-Fee Green Waste Disposal program.
• Wellington residents can safely dispose of recalled sand at Kilmany Transfer Station, free of charge
  Wellington residents can safely dispose of recalled sand at Kilmany Transfer Station for free, following safety guidelines, while refunds are managed by retailers including Officeworks, Kmart, and Educational Colours.
• Wellington Shire Council seeks girls, young women, and 12 - 18-year-olds to help design Lions Park
  Wellington Shire Council seeks input from girls, young women, and non-binary 12–18-year-olds to help design Lions Park, creating safe, inclusive, active, and engaging public spaces for youth.
• McIntosh Drive and Lake Guthridge footpath closed to protect Grey-headed Flying Foxes during extreme heat events
  Wellington Shire Council will close McIntosh Drive and Lake Guthridge footpath to protect Grey-headed Flying Foxes during extreme heat, reducing stress, ensuring safety, and allowing wildlife carers to assist vulnerable bats.
• Wellington students explore aviation careers through industry tour across Sale and Longford facilities on 17 March 2026
  Students from across Wellington Shire have taken a hands-on step into the world of aviation, experiencing firsthand the career opportunities available right on their doorstep through an Aviation Taster Tour hosted by Wellington Shire Council.
• Wellington Shire Council elects Cr Cindy Madeley as Mayor and Cr Liz Foat as Deputy Mayor marking up historic female leadership
  Cr Cindy Madeley and Cr Liz Foat were elected Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Wellington Shire, marking historic female leadership and a focus on community, innovation, inclusion, and strategic development.
• Blue Rock Lake foreshore track to be protected with erosion control and revegetation works
  Erosion control works at Blue Rock Lake will protect 130 metres of foreshore track, ensure continued access, and support lake health, with community planting to restore native vegetation and fish habitat.
• Wellington Shire Council to update Community Local Law 2021, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, and strong legal compliance
  The Safer Communities Plan includes Jack's Law to clear weapons from streets, Restart for repeat offenders, and Youthstart to support at-risk youth. Mr Cameron says Labor lacks a plan to tackle Victoria's crime crisis, leaving regions vulnerable.
• Wellington Shire Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange surges ahead, handling one in 43 Victorian Cattle Sales in 2024
  Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange recorded a remarkable 122% increase in cattle throughput last financial year, making it the highest percentage increase of any saleyard in Australia.
• Head south to Lake Tyers Beach, admire Stony Creek Trestle Bridge, enjoy swimming, fishing, picnics, then dine at Lake Tyers Beach Tavern
  Morwell River Falls Reserve, near Boolarra, offers a fern-filled valley, cascading waterfalls, and scenic pools, just over two hours from Melbourne, perfect for a short, peaceful bushland walk.
• West Gippsland CMA celebrates 25 years of sustainable irrigation, transforming Gippsland farms, saving water and protecting local waterways
  West Gippsland CMA's Sustainable Irrigation Program celebrates 25 years, with 1,200 projects saving 47 gigalitres annually, enhancing farm productivity, protecting waterways, and expanding beyond the Macalister Irrigation District.
• Tim Bull urges local clubs to apply for the Sporting Club Grants Program supporting volunteers, equipment, and program delivery by 26 November 2025
  Tim Bull encourages Gippsland East sporting clubs to apply for the Sporting Club Grants Program by 26 November 2025, supporting uniforms, equipment, volunteers, events, travel, and governance development.
• Melina Bath invites community to apply for CSEF Grants Open 2026, supporting eligible families with school camps, sports, excursions costs
  Eligible families can now apply for the 2026 Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund, helping cover costs of school camps, excursions, sports, and outdoor education through their child’s school.
• Melina Bath encourages groups to apply for grants supporting veterans and restoring community memorials by 3 February 2026
  Melina Bath backs local organisations to apply for grants supporting veterans, with funding available for facility upgrades and restoring community war memorials. Applications close 3 February 2026.
• Tim Bull encourages local groups to apply for grants supporting veterans, preserving war memorials and heritage by 3 February 2026
  Tim Bull urges local organisations to apply by 3 February 2026 for grants supporting veterans and conserving war memorials and community heritage.
• Darren Chester secures 2M for Western Lakes Entrance upgrades underway, new pathway and safety improvements to benefit all users
  Safety upgrades on Lakes Entrance western approach are progressing, with a new pathway, improved barriers, and intersection works set to benefit motorists, pedestrians, and visitors before the Christmas peak.
• DEECA invites landcare groups to apply for Victorian government grants with $3.55M in total by 23 April 2026
  Victorian Landcare Grants offer $3.55 million to support environmental volunteers, funding projects up to $20,000 that protect nature, restore habitats, and connect communities. Applications close 23 April 2026.
• Darren Chester urges Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants now available until 31 January 2026
  Federal MP Darren Chester is urging Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants supporting travel and competition costs. Eligible juniors aged 12-18 can apply before 31 January 2026.
• Buckley Park Community Farm receives $10,000 South Gippsland Water grant for irrigation, hothouse and sustainable food production upgrades
  Buckley Park Community Farm received a $10,000 South Gippsland Water grant, funding irrigation upgrades, a chlorine filter, and a hothouse system to boost sustainability and local food production.
• Danny O’Brien encourages missed applicants to apply for round two Sporting Club Grants funding opportunities by 7 April 2026
  Many Gippsland South sporting clubs and community groups secured 2025–26 Sporting Club Grants funding, boosting facilities, equipment, and volunteers, with Danny O’Brien encouraging unsuccessful clubs to apply for round two.
• Tim Bull encourages Gippsland East communities to apply for Victorian government’s Tiny Towns Fund Grants until 4 February 2026
  Tim Bull urges Gippsland East communities to apply for the Tiny Towns Fund, offering $5,000-$50,000 grants to support tourism, liveability, and local projects for towns under 5,000 residents.
• Darren Chester urges young Gippslanders to apply for 2026 National Youth Parliament Leadership Program by 21 November 2025
  Darren Chester is encouraging Gippsland students aged 16 - 17 to apply for the 2026 National Youth Parliament, offering a fully funded week-long leadership and democracy program in Canberra.
• Baw Baw Shire Council encourages community groups to apply for 2026‑2027 grants supporting projects and minor capital works
  Baw Baw Shire Council’s 2026‑2027 Community Grants Program supports not-for-profit groups with funding for projects up to $5,000 and minor capital works up to $10,000, promoting thriving, sustainable communities.
• Melina Bath invites local community and sporting clubs to apply for Regional All Abilities Grants by 19 November 2025
  Melina Bath encourages regional clubs to apply for 2025 Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, supporting inclusive programs, specialised equipment, workforce, and disability-led initiatives. Applications close 19 November 2025.
• Darren Chester urges Gippsland not-for-profits to send EOIs and apply for 2025-26 Volunteer Grants supporting local community volunteers
  Federal Member Darren Chester urges Gippsland not-for-profits to submit EOIs for 2025-26 Volunteer Grants, offering $1,000-$5,000 to support volunteers, strengthen community connections, and remove barriers to participation.
• Tim Bull urges Gippsland East households to apply for $100 Power Saving Bonus amid rising costs
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull urges locals to apply for the $100 Power Saving Bonus, helping households manage rising costs. Eligible residents can seek assistance at his Bairnsdale office.
• Melina Bath urges East Gippsland cricket clubs, schools and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants by 27 March 2026
  Melina Bath encourages regional cricket clubs, schools, and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants supporting facility upgrades and inclusive participation opportunities. Applications close 27 March 2026.
• Gippsland Water shares practical water-saving tips, family activities, sign-up at Wellington Sustainability Festival on 14 March 2026
  Gippsland Water will share water-saving tips, family activities, and Sounding Board sign-ups at the Wellington Sustainability Festival, Saturday 14 March, at Nakunbalook Environmental and Cultural Education Centre, Sale
• Southern Rural Water declares spill entitlement in MID, boosting farmers' allocations as Lake Glenmaggie nears capacity
  Southern Rural Water has declared a spill for Macalister Irrigation District customers until 16 September, providing water above 100% allocation as Lake Glenmaggie nears capacity at 98% following strong winter inflows.
• Community-led partnerships restore Kugerungmome/Powlett River catchment health on Bunurong Country, from source to sea
  Community, Traditional Owners and agencies are restoring the Kugerungmome/Powlett River, delivering $1 million in on-ground works to protect culture, biodiversity and water quality across a 50,000-hectare catchment on Bunurong Country.
• Harman Wines: Sustainable Bass Coast vineyard blending cool-climate wines, fresh food, hospitality and rural charm
  Harman Wines in Wattle Bank combines sustainable, off-grid practices with cool-climate wines, fresh seasonal food, and warm hospitality, creating a relaxed Bass Coast destination for family, friends, and wine lovers alike.
• Princes Highway $2M upgrade improves safety and access for pedestrians at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna
  Nearly $2 million in joint government funding will upgrade Princes Highway at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna, improving pedestrian safety, access, and traffic flow with new medians, lighting, safety platforms, and path reconstruction.
• West Gippsland CMA hosts free sustainable farming workshops with local landcare groups from September 2025 to March 2026
  West Gippsland CMA is hosting free farm field days September - March, showcasing sustainable agriculture, carbon farming, and local expertise. Workshops cover soil health, biodiversity, biofertilizers, and agribusiness opportunities.
• East Gippsland Council accepts $4.255M Commonwealth funding to progress Gippsland Lakes Shared Community Hub
  East Gippsland Council has accepted $4.255 million Commonwealth funding to progress the Gippsland Lakes Shared Community Hub, finalising designs and preparing to tender construction for Paynesville lakeside community facility.
• Skeene Creek Farm launches, driving sustainable agriculture, innovation, and resilience across East Gippsland region
  Skeene Creek Farm launches near Bairnsdale, transforming underutilised land into a sustainable agriculture hub, promoting circular economy, innovation, environmental resilience, and practical research for East Gippsland farmers.
• Glenmaggie Dam needle valve 1 shutdown planned 18 March for expert refurbishment, ensuring reliable irrigation and environmental water supply
  Glenmaggie Dam will shut down the Main Southern Channel on 18 March to remove and refurbish Needle Valve 1, ensuring reliable irrigation and environmental water flows for farms and the Macalister River.
• Nature positive farming field day, sustainable practices, carbon insights, and soil management at Malabar farm
  Join Jenny and Paul O'Sullivan at Malabar Farm on 20 November 2025 for a free Nature Positive Farming field day, exploring sustainable practices, greenhouse gas estimation, soil carbon, and carbon farming benefits.
• Farm fencing grants protect 300 hectares of biodiversity and boost waterway health across West Gippsland
  Over 300 hectares of farmland will be fenced through West Gippsland CMA's farm fencing grants, protecting waterways, biodiversity, and livestock while supporting sustainable farming and revegetation across the catchment.
• Bass Coast wins National AustStab Award for sustainable road recycling and innovative rehabilitation
  Bass Coast Shire Council won the 2025 AustStab Award for Excellence for pioneering road recycling methods, cutting emissions by 85%, truck movements by 80%, and delivering faster, more sustainable, durable roads with less disruption.
• Regional all abilities participation grants is now open to boost inclusive sports opportunities for people with disability in regional communities
  The Allan Labor government's Regional All Abilities Participation Grants offer up to $25,000 for clubs to boost disability inclusion through equipment, training, travel support, and all-abilities sports programs.
• Baw Baw Shire secures $102,000 AusNet grant for five rural hall upgrades, emergency generators and community resilience
  Baw Baw Shire secured a $102,000 AusNet Emergency Resilience Grant for five rural halls, funding switchboard upgrades, generators, and community events to improve emergency power readiness.
• Metung Hot Springs provides mineral-rich pools, wellness experiences and sustainable practices for relaxation and Gippsland tourism
  Metung Hot Springs offers mineral-rich geothermal pools, saunas, and spa services, providing a relaxing, sustainable wellness experience while supporting local wildlife, environment, and Gippsland’s growing tourism industry.
• Darren Chester delivers $3000 grant to Rosedale Historical Society for eco-friendly heating upgrade and safety improvements
  Darren Chester delivered a $3000 Volunteer Grant to Rosedale Historical Society, funding eco-friendly heating upgrades that improve safety and sustainability while supporting volunteers and preserving the district's heritage for future generations.
• Baw Baw Council secures $173,000 grant to launch annual Noojee Truffle Festival 2026
  Baw Baw Shire Council has secured a $173,000 Victorian Government grant to launch a three-week Noojee Truffle Festival in 2026, boosting tourism, local produce, and sustainable economic opportunities.
• Second round of South Gippsland community grants now open, with drop-in support sessions in various dates and locations
  South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications.
• Second round of South Gippsland community grants now open, with drop-in support sessions in various dates and locations
  South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications.
• East Gippsland Council backs Planning Panel recommendations to guide sustainable growth in Paynesville, Eagle Point
  East Gippsland Council has endorsed independent Planning Panel recommendations to guide Paynesville and Eagle Point’s sustainable growth, infrastructure and environmental protection while reflecting local character.
• East Gippsland community impact grants fund projects strengthening communities and supporting environment
  East Gippsland’s 2025 Community Impact Grants received 36 applications, funding 15 projects focused on community strengthening, environmental sustainability, facilities, and open space, supporting local growth, inclusion and creative initiatives.
• Darren Chester delivers volunteer grant to support Traralgon RSL Bowls Group and boost junior participation
  Darren Chester awarded a $1700 Volunteer Grant to Traralgon RSL Bowls Group, funding equipment to boost junior participation, support volunteers, and strengthen youth development as part of Gippsland's wider $63,000 program.
• Darren Chester urges federal support for forest scientists making Australia's sustainable native hardwood timber industry
  Darren Chester has urged the Albanese government to support credible forest scientists backing Australia's sustainable native hardwood timber industry, criticising activist influence and government bans harming regional jobs and communities.
• Gippsland emerges as national hub for industrial hemp, boosting sustainable alternatives to timber
  Gippsland is gaining national attention as a hub for industrial hemp, with pilot projects, crop walks, and the Global Hemp Summit showcasing sustainable alternatives and regional economic opportunities.