Free training in soil management and fertigation (fertilisation through irrigation) is available for eligible people, thanks to Disaster Recovery Funding from the Queensland Rural Industry Training Council.

This accredited training is being provided through a partnership between the Australian Agricultural College Corporation and CQUniversity's Centre for Plant & Water Science.

There will be an on-campus component in Rockhampton and field trips in the local district for the training in Soil Management (November 28-29) and Fertigation (Nov 30-Dec 1).

Priority for subsidised places will be given to job seekers looking to develop on-farm skills, existing farm workers, owners or managers, or volunteers wanting to help with the re-building.  There will be a limited number of extra places available for those prepared to pay $180 for the soil management training or $135 for the fertigation training. Accommodation is available for participants.

Bookings are available via 1800 888 710.

The soil management training will help participants learn how to design, construct, install and maintain effective erosion and sediment control measures. This course starts with the basics of soil characteristics and works through to cropping, irrigation and drainage strategies.

The fertigation training will help participants become familiar with pressurised irrigation systems and troubleshooting, incorporating the latest technology for delivering fertiliser via irrigation.

Training will be presented by Adam Trask from Dowden Pumping, Sam Birrell from Netafim Australia, Lance Perdergast from the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation in Emerald and CQUniversity specialists Dr Surya Bhattarai, Professor Kerry Walsh and Dr Melinda Mchenry.