Some of the largest irrigation companies in southern NSW have received $6 million for a feasibility study to explore what is required to bolster the efficiency and resilience of irrigation networks in an era of water recovery.

Murray Irrigation said the aim of the study was to find a pathway forward that will minimise the resultant harm of water buybacks on farmers and communities.

Murray Irrigation partnered with Coleambally Irrigation and Murrumbidgee Irrigation to successfully apply for the funding under the Federal Government’s Resilient Rivers Water Infrastructure Program.

The $6 million will be divided between the three companies under a project called Business Resilient Southern Irrigation Districts (BRSID).

It will investigate water saving opportunities by better understanding different water needs in the future, assessing new technology and engineering solutions and how these could be incorporated into existing operations, potentially saving between 50 and 100 gigalitres of water.

Murrumbidgee Irrigation will receive an additional $3.8 million towards a comprehensive assessment of its network to understand where water is being lost and how to fix it.

These projects aim to help NSW meet its Murray-Darling Basin Plan commitments by contributing towards the Commonwealth’s 450 Gl of additional environmental water recovery target and reduce the need for water buybacks.

“We’re looking forward to working with NSW DCCEEW, Murrumbidgee Irrigation and Coleambally Irrigation to investigate potential opportunities for water savings, and financial and operational improvements across each of our irrigation districts,” Murray Irrigation CEO Ron McCalman said.

“This collaboration and access to funding is a positive step to ensure Murray Irrigation has explored and analysed potential solutions to provide shareholders and the community with long-term resilience and business viability in an environment of water recovery.

“I would like to reassure shareholders, customers and the community, that undertaking this feasibility study does not involve the transfer of water.”

Lisa Hingerty from NSW DCCEEW said tangible projects like these were helping NSW reduce the need for voluntary water purchases.

“Investing in new water saving infrastructure is the best way to maximise water for the environment and improve the health of the basin,” she said.

The feasibility studies are expected to be completed by June, informing the next steps for possible further infrastructure upgrades.

To find out more, visit: https://water.nsw.gov.au/resilient-rivers

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