Mildura SmartFarm

Where research and innovation happens

The Mildura SmartFarm is located in the Sunraysia region, providing leading horticultural research with a focus on horticulture, almonds and nuts, biosecurity, integrated pest and disease management in Victoria.

Agriculture Victoria’s SmartFarms are located at Ellinbank, Hamilton, Horsham, Mildura, and Tatura.

The SmartFarm research ecosystem enables the adoption of technology and innovation in agriculture.

Research focus at Mildura SmartFarm

At Mildura SmartFarm we design and test nut production systems for maximum efficiency, with a focus on almonds.

Our work aims to achieve increases in marketable yield, product value and production efficiency through a combination of higher tree density, new cultivars and rootstocks, and tree architecture that lends itself to shake and catch harvesting.

Developing smart nut production systems includes the application of advanced technology across all aspects of production from soil management, water application, fertiliser use, chemical spraying and tree pruning, to post-harvest nut drying.

In addition, we evaluate beehive health, almond pollination, integrated pest and disease management, new cultivars plus irrigation and sensor technology.

Research and innovation at the SmartFarm

Scientific research is at the core of Mildura SmartFarm operations and demonstrating new technology and innovative almond orchard design and management systems to industry and community is a vital part of our work.

Some of the research capabilities we have include:

• variable-rate intelligent spray application system that allows the application of adjusted rates of pesticides based on canopy size and density, and the application of plant protection products in an economical and environmentally sound manner
• Innovative Cartographer technology that uses high-resolution sensors to deliver precise whole-of-orchard data for a wide range of crops. The Cartographer spatially maps fruit, flower and tree geometry allowing for precision management of crops and targeted pest and disease management
• working with apiarists and almond growers to support the sharing of data on beehive health and chemical use in orchards.

Get connected at Mildura SmartFarm

Collaboration is key to the success of Mildura SmartFarm and you’re invited to connect with us and explore the possibilities.

• Innovation: Contact us if you have an interest in co-design and innovation in agriculture.
• Co-location: Experience the daily activities at the SmartFarm by co-locating.
• AgTech: We can test out your AgTech or you can take a look at our AgTech in action.
• Events: Hold an event or host a meeting at the nearby Ag Vic Irymple office and utilise the SmartFarm for field presentations.
• Visiting scientists: We welcome national and international visitors including scientists, students and those in the agriculture industry.

Take a tour of Mildura SmartFarm and find out how we are increasing value in the Victorian economy and creating new opportunities for agriculture through research and innovation. Follow Agriculture Victoria on Facebook or X to find out when the next event is happening at a SmartFarm near you.

Career opportunities

Enjoy a fulfilling career at Mildura SmartFarm in one of the many job opportunities ranging from science and research to policy and business or administration, communications and community engagement. Start a job search and find out what’s available.

PhD opportunities are available at Mildura SmartFarm for those who want to be part of the next generation of leading STEM researchers and scientists in agriculture. For more information contact kendra.whiteman@agriculture.vic.gov.au.