Mansfield’s New Weather Station Delivers Real-Time Local Forecasts — Powered by AI
In north-east Victoria, the community of Mansfield is stepping up to solve a long-standing issue – inaccurate weather forecasts that don’t reflect local conditions. With the recent installation of a new weather station, residents now have access to real-time weather data tailored specifically to their region.
“It’s pretty well known that the Eildon-based weather reports aren't always the same as the weather we're experiencing in Mansfield,” said Mansfield Shire Council Mayor Steve Rabie.
Nestled near the foothills of the Victorian Alps and close to the Great Dividing Range, Mansfield’s varied terrain makes local forecasting a challenge. Until now, the closest Bureau of Meteorology station was located 28 kilometres away at a significantly different altitude, often resulting in forecasts that missed the mark.
Real-time Local Data That Matters
Powered by solar energy and equipped with sensors to measure wind, temperature, rainfall, humidity, UV radiation and more, the station provides real-time, hyperlocal weather data tailored to the region. Mansfield Shire Council has even launched a dedicated local weather webpage so that farmers, event organisers, sporting clubs and everyday residents can easily access conditions on the ground.
And the best part? The site also features eight-day forecasts powered by the AI forecasting engine developed by meteorologist and Jane’s Weather founder, Jane Bunn.
Powered by AI Forecasting Developed by Jane Bunn
Jane’s Weather uses advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning to interpret multiple data sources faster and more accurately than traditional models alone. The result: precise, timely forecasts that stay up-to-date with changing conditions — exactly what towns like Mansfield need to stay ahead of the weather.
"It’s really important to make sure you’re not putting all your eggs in one wet basket," Jane said in an interview. “AI lets us bring in the best of all models, and deliver useful, reliable forecasts without delay.”
Farmers Already Seeing the Benefits
For local grower Tony Tehan, the new station is a welcome improvement after years of advocating for more accurate data in Mansfield.
“I got sick of getting forecasts from Eildon, which is 20 or 30 kilometres away from Mansfield,” he said. “If it's too hot or too cold the sprays do not operate efficiently… It’s good to know what the 24-hour rainfall is. It affects runoff into dams and all that sort of thing.”
Alli Walker, organiser of the Mansfield Farmers' Market, said the change is a game changer. “As a farmers' market organiser, having access to accurate, local weather data is a game changer — it helps our stallholders plan better and supports the resilience of our regional food producers.”
Regional Communities Filling the Gaps
While the Bureau of Meteorology continues to offer critical national forecasting and emergency alerts, Cr Rabie sees the new station as a complementary local service. “The local weather service means our community has both options available — accurate, real-time local conditions and the wide-ranging forecasts and warnings from our national weather service.”
As smaller, regional communities like Mansfield turn to independent stations and AI forecasting for more precise and timely weather data, they’re leading the way in adapting to local conditions and making smarter decisions day to day.
Helping Regional Australia Forecast Smarter
Jane’s Weather is proud to be supporting Mansfield with AI-powered weather insights that are accurate, up-to-date, and locally relevant.
Want to see how our system can support your town or community? Learn more about our agricultural forecasts here.
