Terrain NRM is seeking input from industry working groups and landholders on innovative ways to invest Reef Rescue funding over the next two years in the Wet Tropics region.

Terrain, together with five other NRM groups is compiling a case to the Australian Government for future funding which will increase the number of projects funded by Reef Rescue.

The Australian Government have indicated that a larger amount of money will be available next year for Reef Rescue projects, so Terrain wants to present a strong case for why extra funding should be allocated to the Wet Tropics region. Early in 2011 the Government intends to let a contract for the remaining two years of Reef Rescue funding.

For our bid to be successful, it’s important that we can show that there continues to be a strong interest in the region for projects. Initial discussions were held with working groups about possible inclusion of additional primary industries, training courses, or different activities that would give good water quality outcomes. Terrain is keen to hear farmer’s ideas about how the program could be improved to achieve water quality objectives and how to encourage increased participation from farmers in the program.

The funding bid will be submitted in early February, so industry groups are encouraged to provide ideas to John Reghenzani ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 0439 670 893) by the end of January.

We intend to start the Reef Rescue application process a month earlier next year, so that contracts can be finalised earlier and work begin before the end of the calendar year. This means that the application process will start in early April. Details of timelines will be posted on the Terrain website in January.