Vic Hub director Sara Hely said the $7.8 million project will focus on monitoring orchards for productivity impacts under different water-stress scenarios in almond, pear and summer-fruit tree crops.
The project will run until 2029-30 and will be conducted at the Tatura SmartFarm.
“FDF received over 100 applications nationally for this highly competitive round,” Dr Hely said.
“To be selected as one of only five highlights the importance of this project for Victorian horticulture and underscores the Vic Hub’s role in drought-preparedness and drought-resilience research.”
Dr Hely said Australian growers facing drought are looking for better ways to make decisions.
“The FDF is backing grant recipients to test new farming approaches designed to strengthen drought resilience,” she said.
“By generating solid evidence, we can give growers the knowledge and confidence to try these practices on their own farms.
“I could not be prouder — this is a huge achievement for our hub.
“This funding recognises the strength of our collaborative approach and our commitment to delivering real outcomes for farmers and the horticulture industry.”
