New use for old technology set to make measuring soil carbon more affordable

Ever heard of an Eddy Covariance Flux Tower?

Well, you’d be forgiven if you hadn’t; and even though this little known technology has been around since 1951 it’s large scale use in measuring the exchange between an ecosystem and the atmosphere is only now being realised in terms of its potential for carbon sequestration in agriculture.

Agricultural group, Agrimix together with Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and funding from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), have joined forces to trial the Agrimix Flux at a number of sites in key beef producing areas of Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Agrimix CEO, Ben Sawley said they are more deeply understanding the sequestering of carbon using the eddy covariance methodology thereby making carbon measuring more readily available and affordable for land managers.

“The biggest challenge of soil carbon is that it is very expensive to measure owing to the drilling of soil cores and taking these cores back to a lab to be analysed; it’s also hard to measure accurately across a paddock as there can be large differences in soil carbon from one soil core to another and they may only be metres apart,” Ben Sawley said.

“So what we are doing is using flux towers to calibrate and validate the models which is much more sensitive and faster than soil coring.” - Mr Sawley

“Soil coring is kind of like measuring a 50 cent piece of soil at the MCG and relying on this to get an accurate picture of what’s going on across the entire field,” Mr Sawley said.

“Currently under the Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) administered by the Clean Energy Regulator in Australia there are only two main approved ways to measure carbon sequestration in soil that is 1) soil coring and 2) validated soil carbon modelling of your farm,” he said.

Like soil coring, carbon modelling is also expensive and setting it up accurately is labour intensive, however once the model is validated it can quantify soil carbon exchanges inexpensively as there is no need for extensive soil coring.

“Agricultural simulation models have been around since the Cold War when the CIA used modelling to understand food production in the Soviet Union,” Ben Sawley said

“To create a good soil carbon model requires lots of calibration and validation to check if it is accurate and you need to do that over a period of time; and in Australia owing to the expanse and variability of landscapes we operate in, you couldn’t just use the same model based on a farm in Rockhampton for a farm in Longreach,” Mr Sawley said.

“So what we are doing is using flux towers to calibrate and validate the models which is much more sensitive and faster than soil coring,” he said.

“This technology has been around for decades so it is tried and tested and it’s been used extensively to measure the ecosystem exchanges in forest systems around the world; this is just utilising an existing technology in a different application.” - Ben Sawley

So how does eddy flux work?

“Eddy flux is a method which measures the flow of carbon dioxide (CO²) molecules into and out of the plants and soil,” Ben Sawley said.

“Simply put; the Agrimix Flux tower is around 6 metres in the air and it can measure a 50-100 hectare radius around it; and it is measuring the flow of carbon into and out of the plants and soil and the net of these gives you the net exchange of carbon dioxide into and out of the soil,” Mr Sawley said.

“We’re calibrating the system to make sure it is accurate and to make sure it is checked through physical soil coring too. Ultimately the goal is to minimise the amount of time land managers have to physically drill soil cores which will help achieve the goal of reducing costs to 1/10th of the current cost,” he said.

But even with access to readily available and affordable methods of accurate measurement not every land manager is going to be able to build carbon in their soil or secure carbon credits.

“There’s so many variables…clay content, rain, drought, or even the ability to make further improvements because the land managers have done such a good job to date,” Ben Sawley said.

“So rather than only use this technology to harness carbon credits and possibly create a new income stream, we want to also use it to help graziers optimise their pasturelands and make them as productive and sustainable as possible,” Mr Sawley said.

"Eddy flux is a method which measures the flow of carbon dioxide (CO²) molecules into and out of the plants and soil." - Ben Sawley

“So we’re looking to uplift current income streams through productivity achieved by better understanding how sequestering carbon drives pasture growth and ultimately increased weight gains in cattle,” he said.

“One of the 17 sites in the research project is a property in Central Queensland and they have two paddocks, one with buffel grass pastures and the other with improved pastures including Progardes® legume, grasses and fertiliser.”

“And what we can see from the data is that improved pastures with good quality plants are more efficient users of water which enables those pastures to grow more organic matter for the same amount of rainfall thereby enabling more feed for animals and the sequestration of more carbon into the soil.”

“This improved productivity often generates many hundreds of dollars of additional production per hectare which very quickly pays back the investment in the improved pasture.”

The Agrimix Flux tower costs around $100K per unit to install, but the business is looking at fully supplied and operated packages for an annual fee.

“It’s not the infrastructure that the land manager wants, it's the data that it produces so we are looking at offering the towers on a package arrangement whereby the land manager can access the data but doesn’t have to own the infrastructure,” Ben Sawley said.

“We’re at the point where we are starting to pull the opportunity together commercially and are hopeful of being able to offer packages to land managers in the near future,” Mr Sawley said.

For a simple explanation of how eddy covariance works visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR4Anc8Mkas

For a more detailed explanation of eddy covariance visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0JWK95Sj84

For information on how eddy covariance has been used in measure gas exchanges in cereal cropping visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfvPoP_xx4Y

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Our Visit With The Bunya People’s Aboriginal Corporation

8 January 2026

Members of the Southern Queensland Landscapes team recently spent time on Bunya Country with the Bunya People’s Aboriginal Corporation, whose work involves Healing Country and strengthening Songlines through on-Country projects and partnerships. We were grateful to be welcomed onto Country to listen, yarn and learn, and to introduce the Growing Climate Smart Grazing in the Condamine River Basin project, which forms part of the national Climate Smart Agriculture Program. Spending time together on Country created space for open conversations, allowing shared priorities to emerge naturally and respectfully. These early discussions explored healthy Country, cultural burning practices and caring for landscapes in ways that honour First Nations knowledge systems that have guided land stewardship for tens of thousands of years. By walking gently alongside Traditional Custodians, these conversations are helping shape the Growing Climate Smart Grazing program so that works will: • Respect and align with First Nations land management knowledge • Support cultural aspirations and practices • Strengthen connections to Country • Build genuine partnerships We recognise that First Nations peoples are the original land managers of southern Queensland, and their knowledge, cultural obligations and connection to Country remain vital to how we care for landscapes today and into the future. Southern Queensland Landscapes sincerely thanks Bunya People’s Aboriginal Corporation for welcoming our team and sharing wisdom and perspectives that will help guide this work.

Media Release - Southern Queensland Landscapes Announces New Board Director Appointments

10 December 2025

Southern Queensland Landscapes is pleased to announce key leadership changes following its 2025 Annual General Meeting, including the appointment of Anthony Glasson as the organisation’s newest Board Director. Anthony, who operates Picarilli Merinos near Thargomindah, brings broad experience in primary production, regional leadership and natural resource management. His long-standing involvement in rural industries and commitment to sustainable land stewardship will be pivotal in supporting Southern Qld Landscapes delivery under its NRM Regional Plan, Flourishing Landscapes, Healthy Communities . Southern Qld Landscapes also confirms the reappointment of Directors, Louise Winton from Morven and Pippa Jones from Goondiwindi. Both Directors bring substantial governance experience and strong regional perspectives, and their renewed terms will continue to support their commitment to community-led outcomes. Additionally, Southern Qld Landscapes acknowledges the contribution of retiring Director Hollie Grimwade, whose service has strengthened their strategic direction and regional engagement. Board Chair, Kimberley Swords said “these appointments reflect the stability and capability of Southern Qld Landscapes governance and the organisation’s strong focus on delivering real outcomes for our communities.” In welcoming and recognising the Directors, Ms Swords said: “I am very pleased to welcome Anthony Glasson as a new Director of Southern Qld Landscapes. Anthony brings a wealth of practical knowledge from his leadership of Picarilli Merinos and a deep commitment to our region. His understanding of land stewardship and his passion for community-led change will be invaluable. I also congratulate and warmly acknowledge the reappointment of Directors Louise Winton and Pippa Jones. I also want to sincerely thank our retiring Director, Hollie Grimwade. Her commitment, professionalism and regional understanding have been significant assets throughout her tenure.” “I would also like to acknowledge our dedicated staff, who continue to deliver meaningful outcomes for landholders, partners and communities. This year, we delivered more than $9 million worth of project activity across the region, with on-ground and in community work to support sustainable agriculture and build community resilience,” said Ms Swords. Members also voted at the AGM to adopt a new modernised, constitution in line with contemporary not for profit governance expectations. Southern Qld Landscapes looks forward to working under its renewed Board leadership to advance regional priorities, continue strong partnerships, and deliver tangible benefits across the Southern Queensland region.

Communication and Events Lead Position Available

4 December 2025

At Southern Queensland Landscapes, you’ll join a team that is dedicated to working with landholders, community groups, industry, and government to deliver practical, science-based solutions that support farming, biodiversity, and the health of our landscapes. Working with us is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a real difference. You’ll contribute to projects that care for the environment, strengthen regional communities, and create a lasting legacy for future generations. If you’re passionate about healthy landscapes, thriving communities, and meaningful work, you’ll feel right at home with us. As a leader in the Program Delivery team, you will play a key role in developing and implementing communication, extension, and adoption strategies for Southern Queensland Landscapes’ environmental and sustainable agriculture projects. You’ll also be responsible for maintaining Southern Queensland Landscape’s brand integrity and consistency across all corporate communications. Reporting to a Programs Manager, you’ll work with minimal supervision to deliver on the responsibilities outlined below. What You Will Do In this role, you will develop communication, extension, and adoption plans for projects and proposals, while supporting the delivery of communications and events for sustainable agriculture and natural resource management initiatives, including managing subcontractors. You will oversee corporate communications to ensure consistent brand representation, organise and facilitate workshops, field days, and other extension activities, and collaborate with stakeholders such as community groups, farmers, researchers, and industry partners to strengthen partnerships. Additional responsibilities include preparing reports on communication and extension outcomes with budget tracking, managing and providing support for Southern Queensland Landscape’s CRM system, maintaining communication resources including the media library, and enhancing the customer journey for land manager partnerships and membership. About You We’re seeking a motivated communicator with a passion for agriculture and the environment. To thrive in this role, you’ll bring: Relevant tertiary qualifications in Communications, Agricultural Science, Agribusiness, or Environmental Science. Proven ability to develop and deliver communication and extension plans that make an impact. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. Strong project management and organisational skills to keep everything on track. Experience in social media, marketing, and content creation, including CRMs and visual assets. Event planning and coordination expertise for workshops, field days, and community activities. A collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently and exercise initiative. Confidence in building relationships with diverse stakeholders and resolving issues positively. Ability to manage subcontractor partnerships effectively. High-level computer literacy, data management, and reporting skills. Analytical and problem-solving abilities to tackle challenges creatively. Knowledge of Australian farming systems, technologies, and challenges. A current driver’s licence and willingness to travel across the region. Why Join Us? At Southern Queensland Landscapes, you will work in a supportive, collaborative environment where your contributions truly matter. You’ll enjoy variety in your work, opportunities to learn and grow, and the satisfaction of being part of a team that’s making a tangible difference for our environment and regional communities. If you’re looking for a role that combines purpose, teamwork and professional growth — apply now and help us create a thriving, sustainable future for southern Queensland.

Administration Officer Position Available

27 November 2025

At Southern Queensland Landscapes, you will be part of a team that works with landholders, community groups, industry and government to deliver real, science-based solutions to support farming, biodiversity, and the health of our landscapes. Working with us means more than just a job; it’s a chance to make a positive difference. You’ll be contributing to practical projects that care for our environment, strengthen regional communities and leave a legacy for future generations. If you’re passionate about healthy landscapes, thriving regional communities and meaningful work, you will find your place with us. We are looking for an organised and proactive Administration Officer to join our friendly and committed team. In this diverse role, you’ll provide essential financial, human resourcing and administrative support across the organisation, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and exceptional service to internal and external stakeholders. What You Will Do You’ll be the go-to person who keeps everything running seamlessly, whether it’s greeting visitors, managing correspondence, or coordinating meetings, travel and events. You’ll provide high-level executive support to the CEO and Executive Leadership Team, assist with finance and HR processes, and help maintain the systems, facilities and resources that underpin our work. Every day will bring variety from supporting community projects and team activities to finding smarter ways to improve communication and workflow. You’ll play a vital role in helping us deliver meaningful impact across southern Queensland. About You You’re a natural organiser with strong attention to detail and a positive, professional manner. You enjoy working with people and take pride in delivering high-quality support. You bring: A Certificate II (or higher) in Business or Administration, or equivalent experience Demonstrated experience across a broad range of administrative functions including reception and executive support, IT support, facilities and equipment maintenance, and office operations Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage confidently with colleagues, partners and community members Strong organisational and time management skills, balancing competing priorities with care and accuracy Initiative, adaptability and a proactive approach to problem-solving A genuine commitment to teamwork, learning and continuous improvement Why Join Us? At Southern Queensland Landscapes, you will work in a supportive, collaborative environment where your contributions truly matter. You’ll enjoy variety in your work, opportunities to learn and grow, and the satisfaction of being part of a team that’s making a tangible difference for our environment and regional communities. If you’re looking for a role that combines purpose, teamwork and professional growth — apply now and help us create a thriving, sustainable future for southern Queensland.

Media Release - Southern Queensland Landscapes to Deliver $9 Million Projects to Improve Grazing Land Along Key Waterways and Protect Koala’s in the States Southwest

7 November 2025

Southern Queensland is set to benefit from a major investment in Queensland’s natural assets, with more than $9 million allocated through the Queensland Government’s Natural Resource Management Expansion Program and delivered by Southern Queensland Landscapes. Southern Queensland Landscapes will receive $6.6 million to work with landholders to improve more than 124,000 hectares of land and vegetation adjacent to key waterways by installing fencing and watering points to better manage grazing. A further $2.5 million is allocated to the improvement of priority koala habitats and support animal movement and survival across Southern Queensland. This targeted action to remove key threats including wild dogs and invasive cactus species. Southern Queensland Landscapes CEO, Gillian Meppem said “the investment highlights the vital link between healthy landscapes, productive agriculture, resilient koala populations and thriving waterways.” “We are looking forward to delivering two key projects in partnership with landholders, through the Natural Resource Management Expansion Program. These projects are focused on protecting our waterways through improved grazing management and supporting thriving koala populations across Southern Queensland.” “Better grazing management, strategic fencing, and improved stock water infrastructure will enhance ground cover and protect waterways, ensuring our landscapes are more capable of resisting and recovering from natural disasters and the impacts of a changing climate.” “We are improving koala habitat by tackling key threats such as wild dogs and invasive cactus and supporting greater genetic diversity to ensure thriving koala populations across southern Queensland,” she said. Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, The Honourable Dale Last, said “the funding demonstrates the Queensland Government’s strong commitment to supporting regional communities and natural resource management.” “When we came into government, we promised we would double funding for NRM organisations, and we would ensure our regional workforce would benefit, and we are delivering on that promise. “These NRM organisations are leading the way in safeguarding our natural resources, and that’s why we’re proud to support them and invest in Queensland’s future.” The NRMEP is a partnership between the Queensland Government and NRM Regions Queensland to deliver $117.84 million in on-ground land, water and biodiversity programs over the next three years.

Natural Resources Recovery Program Update

25 September 2025

We are seeing fantastic momentum across the region, with strong interest from landholders in improving land condition. Even better, clusters of neighbouring properties are getting involved, a promising sign for achieving landscape-scale change that supports water infiltration, soil health, and resilient groundcover. To help visualise this, Projects Lead Payel Sinha, developed a set of clever graphics that capture the essence of the NRRP program. The circular diagram below shows how water, soil, vegetation, grazing, and ecosystem balance are interconnected, all working together to support healthier landscapes.

The 2025 National Landcare Conference

24 September 2025

We were honoured to have CEO Gillian Meppem, Richard Turnbull, Dr Payel Sinha and Uncle Kevin, a Margany Elder from near Quilpie, come together on the Gold Coast for this year’s Landcare Conference, representing our vision, work and cultural partnerships across the region. Dr Payel Sinha delivered a presentation on the Natural Resource Recovery Program: A Holistic Approach to Restoring Landscapes , showcasing how integrative, place-based strategies can unite ecological health, cultural values and community resilience.

The 2025 Australian Cotton Research Conference: Supporting Sustainable Cotton Farming in Australia

10 September 2025

The rapidly evolving global market for agricultural commodities, including cotton, was front and centre at the recent Australian Cotton Research Conference held in Narrabri, NSW. A key theme throughout the event was the increasing pressure climate change places on cotton production and how the industry is adapting through innovation and research. Andrew Davidson of Southern Queensland Landscapes introduced an innovative national project funded by the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC). The project focuses on mapping woody vegetation across cotton farms in Australia, a crucial step toward better understanding on-farm biodiversity and supporting sustainability goals. The project uses a cutting-edge methodology developed by Southern Queensland Landscapes, drawing on a national dataset curated by the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN). What makes this approach unique is its ability to consistently measure vegetation across state and territory lines, overcoming long-standing challenges caused by fragmented and inconsistent regional datasets. The initiative is a true collaboration between the cotton industry, Natural Resource Management (NRM) groups, and NRM Regions Australia. Together, they aim to build a national picture of woody vegetation cover, including how much of it connects to larger, regional biodiversity corridors. Why It Matters... This vegetation data will provide a scientifically robust and cost-effective indicator of potential biodiversity on cotton farms. In practical terms, it can help: • Support cotton growers in meeting environmental standards for market access • Inform risk management strategies and conversations with financiers • Align with international frameworks such as: - The Science-Based Targets for Nature - The Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework - The Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) As the cotton industry looks to remain competitive and resilient in a changing climate, initiatives like this are critical. They help position Australian cotton as a globally trusted, environmentally responsible product.

Board Update July 2025

30 July 2025

A Message From Our CEO, Gillian Meppem

Monitoring to Protect Threatened Habitat in Southern Qld

29 July 2025

Project Officers Katrina Higgins and Erin Landsberg recently joined Rose and Weston from Boobook Ecological Consulting in Roma, to complete field monitoring in the Murweh and Maranoa districts. This monitoring measures the value and health of Coolibah, Poplar Box, and Brigalow habitat. During this time, we deployed acoustic recorders and motion-sensor wildlife cameras, and took DNA samples from nearby water sources to ascertain the fauna within these threatened habitats.