e-News Edition #10

Date: 11-Jul-2023

Hot Topics

1. 2023 Waterwise Irrigation Expo -Optus Stadium, Perth - Secure Your Tickets Now

2. Call for Nominations - Certification Board Committee

3. Call for Nominations Opening Soon: Join the Irrigation Australia Board!

4. Opportunity to Promote in the Upcoming Spring Journal

5. Training 23/24 Courses Now Available

6. EOI Exhibition and Sponsorship Opportunities - Next Irrigation Australia Conference Sydney 2023

7. Non-urban Metering Rules to be Reviewed

8. Free Webinar - New Approach to Water Delivery Rights in Victoria

9. Media Release - Murray-Darling Basin Plan: Time Extension and Finalisation Ideas

10. Listen up: Young People's Perspective on the Future of Australian Agriculture and Rural Industries by AgriFutures

1. 2023 Waterwise Irrigation Expo - Optus Stadium, Perth - Secure Your Tickets Now

The 2023 Waterwise Irrigation Expo will be held on 16th August at Optus Stadium in Perth.

The Waterwise Irrigation Expo is the premier Western Australian event for the urban landscape industry. This year’s Expo will provide Delegates a wide range of learning outcomes, and an exclusive opportunity to access the Stadium’s playing field. The Stadium and the surrounding Park is located on the Burswood Peninsula and has sweeping views of the Swan River and Perth city in the west and the foothills in the east.

Delegates will participate in seminars which consist of classroom and field components that are based on a series of industry-related topics that will be of interest to not only the irrigation industry, but local government, landscape, turf, retailers, installers and contractors. Each group will rotate throughout the day and both exhibitors and delegates will benefit from an allocated time slot within the trade show for each group to engage with industry suppliers and see the latest technologies on show.

We have introduced a dedicated stream for School Gardeners at this year’s event. The topics covered will assist in expanding the knowledge of this sector of the market in water efficient practices.

Secure your ticket today - download the full Delegate Prospectus or register from either of the event streams below:

Industry Stream https://www.irrigationaustralia.com.au/EventDetail?EventKey=WA006 

School Stream https://www.irrigationaustralia.com.au/EventDetail?EventKey=WA007 

2. Call for Nominations - Certification Board Committee

We are excited to announce the opening of the Irrigation Australia Certification Board Committee nominations. This is a unique opportunity for professionals in the irrigation industry to contribute to developing and promoting best practices, standards, and certifications within our field.

As a member of the Irrigation Australia Certification Board Committee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of irrigation practices and ensuring the highest level of expertise within our industry. Your knowledge and experience will directly influence the certification process, ensuring it remains rigorous, relevant, and responsive to the evolving needs of our profession.  The planned work for the next year is focused on both increasing the overall pool of Certified professionals in the industry and improving opportunities for existing professionals in contracted works.

We invite individuals with a strong background in irrigation, a passion for excellence, and a commitment to advancing industry standards to submit their nominations for consideration. By serving on the committee, you will have the chance to:

• Collaborate with a diverse group of industry experts, sharing insights and experiences.
• Influence the development and review of certification programs and standards.
• Help shape the future of irrigation practices, ensuring they align with the latest advancements and sustainability principles.
• Foster professional growth and networking opportunities within the irrigation community.
• Contribute to enhancing the irrigation industry's reputation and credibility.

To nominate yourself or a colleague for the Irrigation Australia Certification Board Committee, please forward a copy of your current resume to companysecretary@irrigation.org.au by 5pm 30th July 2023.  Please ensure the resume includes any details of your current licenses, certifications or professional qualifications, contact details, along with contact details for a suitable referee.

Our selection committee will carefully review all nominations, may contact you or your referee directly in making its decision.

To be eligible to nominate, you must be a current Irrigation Australia Financial Member and a current Irrigation Professional / Certified Irrigation Designer / Certified Meter Installer & Validator with Irrigation Australia Ltd.

Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Geoff Harvey at Geoff.harvey@irrigation.org.au or 07 3517 4000.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to advancing the irrigation industry, and we look forward to receiving your nominations.

3. Call for Nominations Opening Soon: Join the Irrigation Australia Board!

Attention all eligible active financial members of Irrigation Australia! We are excited to announce the upcoming Board Director elections will be opening soon, and we invite you to participate in this important process. This is your chance to contribute to the growth and development of our organisation.

The requirements and attributes expected of someone applying for a Board position would include a good understanding and knowledge of the irrigation industry sector with business management experience including financial acumen. Members with a willingness to do more and the ability to adapt and adjust during uncertain times are valuable attributes.

Here are the key details you need to know:

🔹 Five Vacancies: There are five positions available this election, providing a significant opportunity for you to make an impact on our board.

🔹 "Key Information" Document: In the first formal notification, we will provide you with a version of the "Key Information" document. This comprehensive resource will equip you with essential details about the nomination process and the responsibilities of a board director.

🔹 Director Nomination Forms: On 11 August, we will issue the Director Nomination Forms, allowing you to nominate individuals whom you believe would be valuable assets to the board.

🔹 Friendly Reminder: To ensure that all interested members have a chance to participate, we will send out a reminder a couple of weeks after the initial notification.

🔹 Last Call for Nominations: In early September, specifically on 8 September, we will have the last call for nominations. This is your final opportunity to submit nominations and have your voice heard.

🔹 Collating Nominations and Profiles: Once the nomination period concludes, our dedicated team will diligently collate all the nominations and collect the necessary profile documents from the candidates. This ensures a thorough evaluation of each nominee's qualifications and aspirations.

🔹 Handling Excess Nominations: In the event that we receive more nominations than available slots, we have a fair and transparent process in place. All profile documents will be made available, and we will initiate a voting process to select the board directors.

🔹 Voting Procedure: This may change for this year – we are investigating an online system to make voting easier.

Your participation in the Irrigation Australia Board Director elections is essential for shaping the future of our organisation. We encourage you to engage actively and nominate individuals who can bring fresh perspectives and expertise to our board.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a difference! Stay tuned for further updates and reach out to us if you have any questions or require additional information.

Together, let's cultivate a thriving future for Irrigation Australia!

4. Opportunity to Promote in the Upcoming Spring Journal

We are thrilled to announce that advertisement opportunities for the upcoming Irrigation Australia Spring Journal are now available! This is your chance to drive interest from an audience of thousands of irrigation professionals and decision-makers nationwide.

Why advertise in the Irrigation Australia Spring Journal?

• Reach a targeted audience of industry experts, researchers, and key stakeholders involved in the irrigation sector. Position your brand in front of professionals actively seeking innovative solutions and advancements in irrigation technology.
• Establish your organisation by sharing your expertise, success stories, and industry insights.
• Boost your brand's visibility and recognition through strategic advertising placements, maximizing your exposure.
• Engage with like-minded professionals, potential clients, and partners who are passionate about irrigation. Create meaningful connections and uncover collaborative opportunities that can drive your business forward.
• Expand your market reach and tap into new business opportunities. The Irrigation Australia Spring Journal provides a platform to showcase your products, services, and solutions to various industry professionals, opening doors to untapped markets.
• Provide valuable insights and educational content to the irrigation community.
• Tailor your advertisement package to align with your budget and marketing goals. Choose from various options, including full-page ads, half-page ads, and digital ad placements, ensuring you maximize your return on investment. View our Media Kit here for more information.

Act fast, as spots are limited! Contact us today to discuss available options and reserve your advertisement space. Together, let's showcase the best of your brand and contribute to advancing irrigation practices nationwide.

For advertising inquiries, please contact Brian Rault at 0411 354 050 or via email at brian.rault@bcbmedia.com.au.

For editorial inquiries, please contact Eve White at 0410 147 331 or evewhiteediting@gmail.com.

5. Training 23/24 Courses Now Available

We are excited to announce that intakes for our July - September training programs are now open for enrolment. We will be continuing to add courses regularly, so make sure to keep your eye out!

Our range of nationally accredited courses and qualifications are designed to provide you with the right skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the irrigation industry.

Whether you're new to the industry, or building on your professional development in irrigation, take the opportunity to expand your skills and browse below at the range of training courses we will be delivering over the next few months. Some registrations are closing very soon, so secure your spot today!

Click here to see what courses are available now!

6. EOI Exhibition and Sponsorship Opportunities - Next Irrigation Australia Conference Sydney 2023

We are thrilled to announce that the Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition is returning to Sydney in September 2024, and we are now accepting expressions of interest for exhibition and sponsorship opportunities! This event brings together industry leaders, professionals, and innovators to showcase the latest advancements and solutions in irrigation technology. With a rich history of success, the conference offers an unparalleled platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and business expansion. Take the chance to be part of this remarkable event that drives the future of irrigation!

As an exhibitor or sponsor, you will have the unique opportunity to gain significant visibility and connect with key decision-makers in the irrigation industry. Showcase your products, services, and expertise to a highly targeted audience of industry professionals, government representatives, researchers, and investors. With extensive media coverage and a comprehensive marketing campaign, your brand will receive widespread recognition and exposure throughout the conference.

Join us in Sydney, Australia, and seize the chance to establish valuable partnerships, generate leads, and leave a lasting impact on the future of irrigation. Stay tuned for more details on expressing your interest and securing your spot at the Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition 2024!

Expression of interest form here.

7. Non-urban Metering Rules to be Reviewed 

Minister for Water Rose Jackson has announced that the NSW Government will thoroughly review the non-urban metering rules to make it easier for water users across the state to become compliant and to ensure water use is being measured and managed fairly and sustainably. You can read Minister Jackson’s announcement here.

The review aims to accelerate progress on compliance and will give water users a chance to have their say on proposed changes. 

Nearly five years have passed since these rules were enacted and while many large commercial water users have jumped on board, thousands of smaller operators have not.

There are valid reasons quoted for this including difficulties in accessing the right people to install new meters, supply chain disruptions, the cost of equipment and of course the recent flooding.

The review will give all water users an opportunity to have their say on how to improve the way water take is being monitored.  It is expected to be complete by the end of 2023. 

8. Free Webinar - New Approach to Water Delivery Rights in Victoria

The new ‘place of take approvals’ framework will strengthen water delivery rights in declared systems and will come into effect during 2023/24 following planned consultation and communications activities.

The new approach will protect irrigator’s existing rights to have water delivered during a rare shortfall event. A consistent framework will be set for all declared systems. Irrigators will also have more flexibility to manage their own delivery risk.

WHEN: Wednesday 12th July from 1pm – 2pm

TOPICS

This webinar will discuss what the new framework means for irrigators. It will cover:

• The drivers for the change.
• What the changes are, and what they mean for water users, including for private diverters and irrigation district customers.
• Proposed rules under the framework, including cap and trade of water delivery rights.
• How the changes fit in the program of work to manage increasing delivery risk in the Murray.

EXPERT SPEAKERS

Expert speakers are Penny Clark - Senior Manager Water Reform Legislation Oversight, and Alex Murray - Acting Manager Declared Systems Reform. Penny and Alex are from the Water Markets and Grid branch at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA). This team over-sees the place of take approval framework.

HOW TO REGISTER

To register for the webinar, please go to bit.ly/AgVicWMW16.

After registering, save the confirmation email containing important information about joining the webinar, including a passcode.

MORE INFORMATION

More information about Place of Take approvals can be accessed at Water Register - place of take. Your rural water corporation will also have information specific to your circumstances and will communicate with you ahead of the changes.

Previous webinars in the Ag Vic irrigation webinar series can be viewed at www.extensionaus.com.au/irrigatingag, including webinars on a range of other recent water reforms.

This webinar series is brought to you by the Sustainable Irrigation Program, a partnership between DEECA, catchment management authorities, rural water corporations, and irrigators.

9. Media Release - Murray-Darling Basin Plan: Time Extension and Finalisation Ideas

The National Irrigators’ Council has released its submission to the finalising the Basin Plan ideas consultation process and it comes as the Federal Water Minister has today asked the Basin Authority to report on whether the Plan can be achieved by its mid-2024 deadline.

NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “Minister Plibersek called for ideas on how to finalise the Basin Plan, honouring her commitment to consider ‘all options on the table’. The Plan was drafted over a decade ago and a lot has been achieved and changed since then. This ideas process is an opportunity for the Minister to consider how we can collectively work to finalise the Basin Plan by focusing on delivering real, tangible outcomes.

“One of the recommendations put forward by NIC was for the timelines to be extended to allow the States time to complete their Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) projects. Reports today that the Minister has asked the MDBA about timelines, signals the Minister’s pragmatic approach to finalising the Plan and hopefully will lead to agreement around the Ministerial Council table to extend the timelines.

“Farmers have already given up over 2100 gigalitres of water. They’ve done the heavy lifting and it’s time for Basin Governments to deliver on their commitments, so their failures aren’t sheeted home to farmers and communities. If that takes a little more time, then so be it. It’s better to have a good plan which works, then a bad plan which destroys jobs, businesses, communities, food availability and the cost of living.

“NIC urges Basin Ministers to consider the ideas which have been presented and embrace the collaboration of stakeholders to finalise the Plan. The alternative is buybacks which will hurt all Australians at the checkout and won’t deliver real outcomes by just adding water and hoping for results.

“In our submission, NIC presents a number of innovative ideas, including options or derivatives trading, co-locating renewable energy and water infrastructure, building and extending partnerships between irrigators and environmental water holders, and investing in complementary measures. These ideas add flexibility, achieve multiple goals at once and deliver triple bottom line outcomes for the productive sector, communities and the environment – which is the most important principle of the Basin Plan.

“NIC has long said there are better ways to deliver the Plan, which gets results without harming industry and communities. We welcome the Government considering these ideas and extending the timelines to ensure the Plan is fair and works for all stakeholders.

“The Plan shouldn’t be about pitting food growers against the environment or communities against communities or state against state. It should be about working together to achieve shared goals and outcomes, and NIC stands ready to engage in this collaboration to see healthy rivers, healthy wildlife, healthy communities and thriving local economies.”

You can find our submission at https://www.irrigators.org.au/policy/. 

Ends. Media Contact: Isaac Jeffrey 0407 083 890 ceo@irrigators.org.au

10. Listen Up: Young People's Perspective on the Future of Australian Agriculture and Rural Industries by AgriFutures

Young people have a key role to play in the future of our Australian rural industries. By investing in young people, listening to young people, and working with young people, we can better support agriculture to thrive, now and into the future.

This report was commissioned following rich and valuable conversations at the 2022 AgriFutures Stakeholder Summit, which bought together 42 Horizon Scholars, their sponsors, 30 secondary students from Albury-Wodonga, AgriFutures Board Members, and other industry stakeholders to unpack the future of agriculture and its workforce.

With the agricultural workforce a challenge faced throughout the industry, the focus of this work was to unearth the insights and perspectives of young people on how to transform the agricultural industry for a more prosperous tomorrow.

Join an upcoming webinar to unpack the insights from this report:

Date: Wednesday, 2 August 2023

Time: 12pm-1pm (AEST)

Location: Online webinar. Login details will be sent on registration.

For more information and to register click here.

Till next time, best wishes....

Click here if you are interested in becoming an Irrigation Australia Member.

Click here to view upcoming Training Courses.

Click here to view the latest Career Opportunities available within the Irrigation Industry.