A pilot project in the Pyramid-Boort Irrigation Area has delivered lessons and experiences for other Australian communities experiencing rapid changes to traditional land and water management due to irrigation reforms.

Tim Shanahan, Strategic Irrigation Team Leader with the North Central Catchment Management Authority, said the 'Accelerating Reconfiguration' project supported landholders to make informed decisions about the future of their agricultural enterprises in response to new opportunities.

Landholders were provided with a variety of information that helped to clarify different water reform initiatives. Support services were identified depending on each individual landholders circumstances and information on how to source the services was provided.

Information was provided through fact sheets, extension advice and the likes of workshops, including 'Grain vs Hay', 'Coping with Today - Planning for Tomorrow', and 'Business Planning and Evaluation'.

As a result of the pilot project, eligibility requirements for the Loddon Campaspe Irrigation Region broadacre incentive schemes have been modified to better reflect new circumstances in the region.

A user-friendly self-assessment tool was developed for those considering an irrigation reconfiguration offer to determine their best on-farm irrigation system. Another complimentary tool to assess environmental risks was also developed.
Landholder, Sue Bennett from Yarrawalla, was the community representative on the steering committee for the project.

"It is important in these extremely trying circumstances to maximise the opportunities for our farmers, and this pilot project aimed to provide all the information needed to make the right decisions for each farming family for their particular circumstances," said Ms Bennett.
Department of Primary Industries, Irrigation Development Coordinator, John Mansfield, said the pilot project gave agencies a better understanding of the challenges landholders faced during the irrigation reconfiguration and modernisation process and enabled them to define and understand their roles and responsibilities to offer the best assistance possible to farmers.

"As a consequence, delivery methods were adapted, supporting tools developed and relevant information was collated and made accessible to assist landholders in their decision making."
DPI staff addressed the opportunities and implications of reconfiguration and modernisation on farms through the development of an Integrated Whole Farm Plan (WFP). Landholders were informed about additional works they could then undertake following an approved WFP and financial incentives to do so.

Sandra Schroen, Goulburn-Murray Water Operations Manager for the Pyramid-Boort Irrigation Area, said the project was a precursor to the current irrigation modernisation program being rolled out in the Goulburn-Murray Irrigation District.

"At the end of the day, (G-MW) is working towards a modern efficient irrigation delivery system to ensure our customers have viable and sustainable irrigation businesses."

Ms Schroen said it was important that information be continually updated and accessible to landowners as part of the Northern Victoria Irrigation Renewal Project.

The pilot project was conducted by the North Central CMA, Department of Primary Industries, Department of Sustainability & Environment and Goulburn-Murray Water. More information can be found on the NCCMA website or by contacting DPI (Echuca and Kerang) or the North Central CMA.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au