SmartSat CRC CEO Professor Andy Koronios, left, shakes on the MOU with Elders CEO Mark Allison.

AGRIBUSINESS Elders has joined with Australia’s leading space research centre to explore the application of satellite-enabled earth observation technologies in agriculture.

The SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on transforming agricultural practices by addressing challenges in emissions monitoring, pest management, and crop yield enhancement.

The partners said the agreement marks a significant step towards integrating space technology into Australian agriculture for improved environmental and operational outcomes.

Under the MOU, both SmartSat and Elders have committed to using satellite-enabled earth observation technologies to address key challenges in Australian agriculture.

The Killara feedlot will be under satellite observation. Image – Elders.

The collaboration will focus on several critical areas, with a major goal of utilising satellite technology to monitor and report emissions from Elders’ Killara cattle feedlot, contributing to improved environmental management.

The parties will also work together to apply these technologies to enhance the management of weeds, pests, and diseases in Australian grain cropping systems, further improving agricultural efficiency.

Another priority is the use of satellite data to develop innovative techniques aimed at increasing the quality and quantity of yields in the Australian viticulture industry, ultimately benefiting grape growers and winemakers across the country.

Elders managing director and chief executive officer Mark Allison said Elders is committed to creating sustainable solutions for our customers and communities.

“Being at the forefront of agricultural innovation allows Elders to continue providing future focused solutions for our clients, ensuring their businesses remain resilient and profitable in our fast-changing world.

“To this end, we are delighted to be collaborating with SmartSat CRC to explore satellite-enabled earth observation technologies, for the benefit of Australian farmers and the wider sector,” he said.

SmartSat CRC CEO Professor Andy Koronios said the organisation is delighted to be partnering with Australia’s premier agricultural and rural services company to leverage the huge opportunity that space technologies offer to enhance food production and protect our environment.

“This partnership with Elders underscores the importance of earth observation technology in addressing some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture.

“By combining space-based data with on-the-ground expertise, we can enhance environmental monitoring and sustainable agricultural & farming practices across Australia,” he said.

The SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre brings together over 135 participating organisations, including national and international partners, with more than 400 researchers. The CRC has a portfolio of more than 150 research and development projects across advanced communication, connectivity and IoT technologies, advanced satellite systems, sensors and intelligence, and next generation earth observation data services, SmartSat continues to contribute to building Australia’s space R&D capability. The SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre’s activities are funded by the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science and Resources through the Cooperative Research Centres Program. Find out more at www.smartsatcrc.com.