This project is helping Limestone Coast wine grape growers better manage climate variability by improving drought planning, water management and access to practical decision-making tools. Through demonstrations, workshops, climate data and peer-to-peer learning, the project is supporting growers to build more resilient vineyard businesses in a hotter, drier future.
Project description:
The Limestone Coast wine industry is facing increasing pressure from hotter, drier conditions and the rising cost and scarcity of water. This project is supporting growers to improve drought preparedness by combining practical demonstrations, technical expertise and collaborative learning opportunities that strengthen climate resilience across the region.
Project activities include demonstrating soil moisture monitoring technologies at the Naracoorte High School vineyard, delivering workshops on environmental, social and governance (ESG) topics, improving access to local climate and weather data, and working with growers to develop a new five-year climate resilience plan for the Limestone Coast wine industry. A Community of Practice pilot is also bringing growers together to share experiences, build confidence and support the adoption of drought resilience practices through peer-to-peer learning.
Key achievements and results:
The project has made a strong start, with several activities commencing ahead of formal funding and no major impediments to delivery.
Achievements to date include:
- Developed and implemented a Child Safety Plan to support the establishment of the Naracoorte High School demonstration vineyard and future soil moisture monitoring activities.
- Delivered the Beyond Survival: Strategic Planning for the Limestone Coast Wine Industry seminar, providing growers with practical information on environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations for vineyard businesses.
- Delivered the Water Smart Field Day, showcasing water management information and technologies relevant to the Limestone Coast wine industry.
- Both learning events were well attended and received positive feedback from growers and industry, demonstrating strong interest in practical drought resilience initiatives.
- Commenced planning for a Limestone Coast Community of Practice, bringing growers together to improve climate risk management, encourage peer-to-peer learning and strengthen long-term drought resilience.
- Began work towards developing a five-year climate, drought and weather strategy for the Limestone Coast wine industry, alongside improving access to regional climate and environmental data for growers.