How to get involved?

You can be part of that journey in one of two ways — by nominating a farmer or grower who deserves recognition, or by entering yourself for the Awards.

Nominate a Farmer or Farming Business

Know someone doing an exceptional job with irrigation? Nominate them for the Trailblazer Sustainable Irrigation Awards.

Everyone nominated is personally contacted and congratulated on their nomination and invited to enter the Awards should they wish.

Many outstanding growers would never consider putting themselves forward for an award, despite leading the way in sustainable irrigation. A nomination is simply a way of saying: "We see what you're doing, and we think it's worth celebrating."

Anyone can make a nomination - it only takes a minute.

Enter the Awards

Now more than ever, there is a focus on water use and agriculture is in the spotlight for ensuring sustainable water management.

We know how hard farmers work to manage and care for their water resources. These Awards are designed to celebrate farming excellence and be a platform to share how farmers are leading the way in responsible irrigation, innovative water management, and environmental stewardship. 

The Zimmatic Trailblazer Sustainable Irrigation Awards are open to farmers and farming operations within Australia that are leading the way in sustainable irrigation management.

2026 Awards Timeline

20 July 2026 Nominations and entries open

21 August 2026 Nominations close

8 September 2026 Entries close

Oct - Nov 2026 On-farm judging (finalists only)

Nov 2026 Winners announced

FAQ’s

Am I disadvantaged if I enter without being nominated?

Absolutely not! Nominations are simply a way for people to recognise farmers and growers doing great things in sustainable irrigation and encourage them to enter.

Think of it as a pat on the back and a nudge to get your entry in. Whether you're nominated or enter yourself, every entry is judged on the same basis.

Do I have to use a centre pivot to enter?

No. The Awards are open to anyone actively irrigating more than 25 hectares of agricultural land as part of an economically viable farming or growing enterprise in Australia.

There are no restrictions on the type of irrigation system you use or what you produce.

What do I get out of entering?

Plenty! The entry process gives you a chance to reflect on your operation, what you've achieved and where you're heading.

If you're selected as a finalist, the on-farm judging process provides valuable outside perspectives on your operation.

And then there are the prizes! An impressive prize pool worth over AUD$20,000 is up for grabs, headlined by travel vouchers towards next year’s Trailblazer Irrigation Study Tour, Metos weather stations, and a selection of other products and gear that are always a hit with farmers and growers.

Most importantly, you'll become part of a like-minded community of farmers and growers who enjoy sharing ideas and experiences. Entrants receive advance invitations to future Trailblazer tours and events.

I have entered before but have moved further along my journey. Should I enter again?

Absolutely! We encourage it. You can enter the Awards more than once, provided you haven't previously won the Supreme Award.

We love seeing how farms continue to develop and improve. If you've adopted new technology, made further improvements or achieved new outcomes, we'd love to see where your journey has taken you.

What are the judges looking for?

The judges are looking for thoughtful, practical and effective approaches to irrigation and farm management. This could include improving water use efficiency, productivity or profitability, using technology or data to make better decisions, protecting natural resources, building resilience or finding a practical solution to a challenge.

You don't need to tick every box or be doing something completely new or groundbreaking. Trailblazing is about finding better ways to do things and making a positive difference where it matters — to your operation, your community or the wider industry.

Is there a cost to enter?

No. There is no cost to nominate someone or enter the 2026 Trailblazer Sustainable Irrigation Awards.