Nominations Now Open for the 2026 Zimmatic Trailblazer Sustainable Irrigation Awards
Innovation, leadership and a commitment to sustainable water management are shaping the future of Australian agriculture and it's time to celebrate the people leading the way.
We are pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Zimmatic Trailblazer Sustainable Irrigation Awards, recognising farmers who are making an outstanding contribution to responsible irrigation and environmental stewardship.
Returning for the third time in Australia, the Awards provide an opportunity to recognise those embracing innovation, improving water efficiency and demonstrating leadership across the irrigation industry.
Winner of the 2022 Sustainable Irrigation Management Award, Jaco Pauer of the Pye Group, Parilla, South Australia.
Celebrating Irrigation Excellence
The 2026 Awards will recognise excellence across four categories:
Supreme Trailblazer Award
Sustainable Irrigation Management Award
Stewardship & Community Award
Future Trailblazer Award (awarded at the judges' discretion)
An independent judging panel of irrigation and agricultural professionals will assess nominations, recognising growers with a commitment to sustainable irrigation.
Why Recognition Matters
One of the most rewarding parts of the Zimmatic Trailblazer Awards is the nomination process itself. Anyone can nominate a grower who they believe deserves recognition. It only takes a minute, but it can mean a great deal.
Every nominated grower receives a personal phone call from the Awards team to congratulate them and let them know someone has recognised their achievements. For many growers, this acknowledgement alone is incredibly meaningful.
Those who are nominated are then invited to enter the Awards should they wish to do so. Entering is entirely optional, but it provides growers with an opportunity to reflect on their irrigation practices and share the innovations making a difference on their property.
Nominate Someone or Enter Yourself Today?
Farmers and growers are encouraged to consider entering the Awards directly, as you do not need to be nominated to enter.
Each category winner will receive an awesome prize pack including travel vouchers to attend the next irrigation study tour.
Nominations will close Friday 14th August and entries close Monday 31st August.
For information about the Awards, click here.