CQ producers to learn how to use GPS technology to farm smarter

Thursday, 2 Feb 2017

Central Queensland primary producers wanting to learn how to make the most of GPS technology on their farms are encouraged to attend workshops being run by AgForce Projects in the region later this month.

AgForce Projects technical officer Noel Brinsmead said the workshops were vital for any producers already using a GPS to learn to how to use them efficiently, but also suited producers that were looking to purchase a GPS and use it on property.

"We will show producers how to set up a handheld GPS device correctly, work with waypoints and tracks, and use it for general navigation," he said.

"We will also then show producers how to use these skills on your property, including monitoring changes on property, for fencing and for vegetation and weed management.

"It's all about helping producers farm smarter and ensure their businesses are as productive and profitable as possible."

Moura grazier Mark Collins said the GPS Essentials workshop helped him with farm management and property planning.

"We use GPS mainly for fencing, watering points and vegetation and weed management, while it's very helpful to provide a complete property map to new employees," he said.

"We carry the GPS around with us, on the tractor, in the ute, and when you see a weed in the paddock, you can stop and log it. When you've got a 600 to 700 hectare paddock, it can be difficult to find the exact same spot to go back and spray without using mapping."

Mr Brinsmead said workshop attendees would learn how to capture property information with a GPS and transfer it to their computer mapping program, which will help them keep a comprehensive record of property information and production history.

The workshops are being held in:

• Nebo – Tuesday 21^st February

•  Clermont – Wednesday 22^nd February

• Anakie – Thursday 23^rd February

The workshops are $490 per person for the full day, with a 50% discount for additional attendees from the same enterprise. Participants will receive a Statement of Attainment for the unit 'Use handheld e-business tools' which will go towards a Certificate III in Agriculture.

Visit www.agforceprojects.org.au to register or call 3238 6048.

Media Contacts: Scott Whitby 0418 733 102, Sarah Henderson 0427 626 853