The Silverleaf Challenge

We were able to turn a potential multi-day, high-risk manual labour task into a precision operation. We started our workflow by visiting the property and taking high-resolution intelligence. This is important preparatory work and helps minimise time in the field, reduce chemical inputs and ensures a high level of control. This initial process included: · imaging work of the property, focusing on the silverleaf · analysing the imagery · creating a variable application map. We considered the location of the property, which sits within a controlled airspace near the Wagga Wagga airport. Our RePL-qualified pilots actively deconflicted with planes, helicopters and air traffic control from the airport for every flight. We were constantly vigilant due to it being bushfire season. We ensured there was no impact on emergency services, especially as water-bombing helicopters transitioned over the farm at low altitudes. We factor in the forecast to ensure it is not raining, storming, or beyond our heat threshold. It was expected to be too hot from around midday each day, so we planned an early start to make the best use of time. Arriving on-site before sunrise, we quickly filled our water stores from tanks while ensuring we didn’t contaminate clean stock water, and were ready to go. This careful planning allows the spraying process to be efficient as well as safe for any local air traffic. It is imperative to keep chemical application rates as low as possible while maintaining efficacy. We consulted with an agronomist and used a Fluroxypyr, 2,4-D Amine and paraffin oil mix. This is a cost-effective solution that has good sticking power and control. Our setup is designed for high-efficiency, remote operations and includes: · 2000L of fresh water · 3-phase generator · a high-capacity batch mixer. This setup allows us to remain entirely self-sufficient on-site and eliminates the ferrying time associated with smaller setups. We can mix and load the T50 in under a minute, and mixing a new batch takes just a few minutes due to our highly efficient plumbing setup. The DJI T50 does a good job of maintaining altitude. This meant that the drone could stay between 2.5–3 metres off the ground despite the block having sections of 20% gradients. Because of this, we could ensure a consistent swath and reliable spraying pattern. We can also operate the drone up to a kilometre from the trailer, with about 75% of this spraying conducted from one location. Combined with our targeted spraying map, this approach saves significant time and cost. We used imagery to accurately identify the silverleaf and spray it with precision in the hard-to-reach areas. This combined our high-resolution intelligence with heavy-lift application and saved the landowner approximately 40% in labour time and 90% on chemical usage. It also gave them peace of mind that their most difficult country was finally under control.