Background
The Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program (MWWQP) is part of the larger Reef Trust Partnership Water Quality Program between the Australian Government and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
This four-year program aims to achieve an enduring reduction in the long-term end of catchment pesticide and dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) loads from the priority Plane Creek, Pioneer River, Proserpine and O’Connell catchments, and improve water quality in the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.
This support is provided by a pool of major grant funds that are made available for growers working with MWWQP delivery providers, and those that are not engaged in the program but are Best Management Practice (BMP) accredited.
The Major Grants project has funded 76 projects for growers in the region. The program is on track to achieve an enduring reduction in pesticide risk toxicity and Dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) loads from the Mackay and Whitsunday region.
Examples of funded equipment
- Sub-surface nutrient applicators
- Stool splitter
- Equipment for improved placement of grub control:
- Legume planter
- Variable rate and GPS systems
Applications for the Major Grants Program have now closed.
Case Studies
- Major Grants helps Sandiford grower Jeff Grech improve soil health, water quality, and production.
- Elevated Efficiency. Paul Dray gets a boost purchasing a new high-rise spray tractor.
Delivery Providers and Productivity Board
Project contacts