The project will operate within the Bass Coast Landcare Network (BCLN), South Gippsland Landcare Network (SGLN) and Western Port Catchment Landcare Network (WPCLN) areas. The project will apply existing industry models to calculate Net Farm Carbon Balance, Environmental Profit and Loss and CO2 emissions profiles. 18 farming enterprises will be guided through an educational workshop process enabling them to demonstrate and evaluate the effectiveness of these models. They will be supported through peer learning processes that will inform management decisions, build knowledge, contribute to increased carbon storage and greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Learnings will be used to identify new markets and income opportunities.

The project has four main components:

• Measuring what Matters: Working with 18 farming enterprises, the project will create whole-of-farm Carbon Balances, calculate CO2 footprints and develop Environmental Profit and Loss statements (EP&L). Existing FullCAM, Flintpro and EP&L Models will be used to analyse the previous 3-5 years of farm performance.
• Summarise the data and results, identifying key messages and creating targeted learning materials. Key findings will be reported to landholders and partners, identifying key low environmental impact production factors.
• Work with a subset of landholders to link sustainability conscious brands to market pathways and relationships. This may enhance existing income or create new income streams.
• Develop multimedia case studies and educational legacy content. The stories will be developed into a project documentary, highlighting the participants journeys, challenges and learnings leading to changed thinking and practice.

This proposal complements programs currently in place, including the Smart Farming in Westernport project, and is part of a suite of educational and engagement programs that are designed to assist farming enterprises transition to a more climate-resilient future.