Victorian Farmers Remain Hopeful Amid Flooding Setbacks
By Editor • August 15, 2026 • 2 min read
Farmers in regional Victoria are facing a mix of challenges and optimism following recent heavy rainfall that has led to significant flooding across the area. While some are grappling with waterlogged fields and crop losses, many are hopeful for a robust season ahead.
Russell Hocking, a broadacre cropping farmer operating in Werrimull and Prairie, has witnessed the dual impact of the rains. Despite losing about 15 percent of his barley and lentils to flooding, he remains upbeat about the future, citing a favorable moisture profile as the growing season approaches. "The whole Mallee looks excellent, but our farm at Prairie is extremely wet," Hocking explained.
With rainfall totals exceeding their annual averages—410mm at Prairie and 348mm at Werrimull—Hocking's properties have faced challenges due to a deluge that dumped 80mm at the end of June. As the state sees some sunshine, the focus shifts to managing plant diseases exacerbated by the wet conditions. Agronomist Simon Craig notes that demand for fungicides has surged, creating supply shortages. Farmers might need to explore alternative chemical solutions to tackle rising disease risks.
Craig indicated that aerial spraying, though costly—between $24 and $26 per hectare compared to $8 to $10 for tractor spraying—has become a necessary option as some paddocks become inaccessible due to flooding. For instance, dairy farmer Craig Dwyer from Bullaharre has enlisted a helicopter for spraying and fertilizing, acknowledging the challenges of wet conditions, but also the relief after two years of drought.
In northeast Victoria, cattle farmer Damien Gerrans also reported substantial rainfall, with his dams full and creeks overflowing. This recent weather event, he noted, has improved conditions significantly, setting him up well for the coming months despite needing to relocate his herd to dry land.
As farmers navigate these turbulent waters, the mood remains cautiously optimistic, with many looking forward to a potentially bountiful harvest as the El Niño weather pattern approaches.
Source: www.abc.net.au
