CLIMATE

CLIMATE

In Australia, the high rainfall zone usually means areas with an average annual rainfall greater than 600mm. The Greater Hamilton is among the five per cent of the continent to fall into that zone, with an annual average of 680mm.

The heaviest rainfall is generally recorded from May to October, with a growing season of 8-9 months. Winter temperatures are relatively cold and often combined with cold south-west outbreaks and stronger winds. Summer temperatures are generally relatively mild compared to areas further north in Victoria and NSW. 

The Southern Grampians Shire has developed a series of maps showing land use suitability across the region under current and future climatic conditions, taking into account soil, water and topography.

The maps are based on scientific information – mainly growth characteristics of the commodities of interest – combined with the knowledge of local farmers, agronomists, soil scientists and hydrologists. They are designed to assist agribusinesses understand the potential impacts of climate change, and support farmers in their decision making around innovation and diversification.

As identified in the mapping project, the region has all the conditions required to be a significant player in the agricultural sector now and in the future. This certainty will contribute to secure agricultural production for generations of farmers to come and be a very attractive factor in attracting new agricultural investment to the region.

Visit the Bureau of Meteorology for detailed information relating to climate in the Greater Hamilton region.

‘The value of our land is determined essentially by the rainfall that falls on it and the quality of the soil. The Greater Hamilton region has one of the most reliable environments in Australia, so people want to buy land in this area for its reliability.’

Richard Beggs – Nareeb Nareeb