e-News Edition #29

Date: 09-Aug-2024

Hot Topics

1. Exciting Opportunity: Casual Marker/Assessor for Certificate III in Irrigation

2. WA Waterwise Program Celebrates its 20th Anniversary!

3. Irrigation Australia Calls for Director Nominations - Opening Soon!

4. Reminder to Members - Irrigation Australia Constitution Changes

5. Irrigation Australia Conference and Exhibition - Registrations Closing Friday 16th August

6. Netafim Drip and IRRICAD Link Seminars

7. FINAL CALL - Virtual Delivery of CMI Training

8. Our new Irrigation Careers Website is now live!

 9. Mental Health Article - That feeling of being Overwhelmed: A Guide for the Irrigation Industry

10. VegetablesWA - Limited Spaces Available! FREE Intensive 1.5 Day Masterclass in Protected Cropping

11. Northern Basin Connectivity Expert Panel - Release of Final Independent Report

12. Ag Trade Apprenticeship Feasibility Report - Now Available

13. National Water Reform 2024

1. Exciting Opportunity: Casual Marker/Assessor for Certificate III in Irrigation

Irrigation Australia is seeking a dedicated professional to join its team as a casual marker and assessor for the Certificate III in Irrigation student workbooks. This remote position offers a competitive pay rate of $60 per hour.

As the leading organisation dedicated to promoting excellence in the irrigation industry, Irrigation Australia provides high-quality education and training to ensure students acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for their careers.

The ideal candidate will have a current qualification of Certificate IV in Training and Assessing, along with comprehensive knowledge of the Certificate III in Irrigation curriculum and assessment requirements. Excellent attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are essential.

If you are passionate about contributing to the development of the irrigation industry and meet the criteria, Irrigation Australia would love to hear from you. Submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications to sam.obrien@irrigation.org.au

You can view the seek ad here.

2. WA Waterwise Program Celebrates its 20th Anniversary!

Irrigation Australia’s WA Waterwise Programs celebrated its 20th Anniversary on Friday, August 2nd, at The Left Bank in Fremantle. We had a fantastic turnout of members, stakeholders, and staff who joined us to mark this significant milestone. A special thanks to Alison Waters, Damien Postma, and Greg Stewart for their excellent presentations. We hope everyone enjoyed the evening as much as we did!

To relive the memories, check out the photo booth images here: https://bit.ly/3SAuolR

Thank you all for making this milestone so memorable!

3. Irrigation Australia CAlls for Director Nominations - Opening Soon!

Are you committed to advancing Australia's irrigation industry? Do you have innovative ideas and a desire to make an impact?

Irrigation Australia will soon open nominations for its Board of Directors.

Join a dynamic team shaping the future of irrigation in Australia.

Your expertise and vision can drive innovation, sustainability, and growth in this critical sector.

Key dates coming up:

• Call for Board Director Nominations Opens – Wednesday 21st August
• Call for Board Director Nominations Closes – Friday 6th September
• Wednesday 13th November – Irrigation Australia Annual General Meeting

For any questions or queries, please email companysecretary@irrigation.org.au.

Please note - an election only takes place if there are more nominations than vacant positions as per section 39 in the Irrigation Australia Consitution.

4. Reminder to Members - Irrigation Australia Constitution Changes

In brief Summary

• At 6 years, the document is due for review and modernisation to pick up changes in technology, Corporations Law, but more generally make it easier to navigate. A rewrite was chosen in this instance as the existing document is lengthy and includes a number of inconsistencies.
• Governology is the company engaged to draft the new document. They are linked to the Associations Forum and are specific experts in governance for Associations.
• The amendments are not substantial. The biggest driver for change was to make very clear voting rights to conduct elections with confidence. As a result it is proposed that many of the member categories in the existing Constitution are removed and handled separately by the Board with By-Laws, the new version simply refers to Voting and Non-Voting members with transitional arrangements detailed.
• The AGM is currently scheduled for 13 November at 11am AEST. The current Constitution requires 5% of the total number of financial members, or twenty members present (whichever is the lesser). Amendment of the Constitution is a Special Resolution, requiring 75% of the votes cast by members present to pass.
• These amendments have required a significant investment for our Association and the Board believes they represent the best interests of members, and we look forward to your support with the changes. It is important that all members clearly understand the process and have an opportunity for input.

Irrigation Australia Members have been sent an email with links to the current and proposed Constitution with an explanatory table. Please email info@irrigation.org.au if you did not receive it.

5. Irrigation Australia Conference and Exhibition - Registrations Closing Friday 16th August

The countdown is on! 3 Weeks to go! - REGISTER HERE

With only 3 weeks to go, the countdown is on for the Southern Hemisphere's largest irrigation event for 2024! Behind the scenes, we're all working hard to finalise all of the fine details to ensure the Irrigation Australia Conference and Exhibition is as interactive, fun, and productive as possible. 

Get set for a great lineup of entertaining and inspiring keynote speeches, informative workshops and plenary sessions, and a plethora of fun competitions and presentations.

• Live Program - VIEW THE FULL PROGRAM.

• Check out the event blog with updates, click here.

• Industry Workshops – a mix of FREE and low-cost workshops – view summaries here.
  • Certification and Metering Workshop - REGISTER HERE
  • Irrigation Scheduling Training for Local Government Irrigation Operations Staff - REGISTER HERE
  • Water Utility / Irrigation Industry Partnerships Workshop - LEARN MORE
  • Water Conservancy / Waterwise Workshop - LEARN MORE
  • OneBasin CRC Workshop – Acceleration of the Adoption of Digital Irrigation Technologies: From Barriers to Opportunities - REGISTER HERE
  • Environmental Conservation: How Irrigation Makes a Difference Workshop - LEARN MORE

• Keynote Speeches - This year’s most influential minds in their respective fields, each ready to share groundbreaking insights and transformative strategies.

• Panel Sessions - Join leading experts, industry pioneers, and visionary thinkers as they share insights on the latest advancements, trends, and challenges facing the irrigation and drainage industry today.

• Interactive Zone - APPLY HERE

The Interactive Zone as a prominent feature within the Exhibition Hall, which will provide exhibitors with 15-minute sessions for presentations during scheduled catering breaks. This innovative platform offers exhibitors the exclusive opportunity to present their latest ideas and technologies directly to event attendees. There are limited spaces available, so apply today to secure your spot!

• Exhibitor Opportunities - BECOME AN EXHIBITOR

  There's still time to give your company an opportunity to stand out from the crowd by exhibiting at the event!

• Sponsorship Opportunities - PARTNER WITH US

It's not too late to get involved as a sponsor! There are still a range of opportunities available, so have a look at our packages and find the best fit for your organisation's needs. Below are just a few examples of partnership opportunities still available:

• Welcome Reception Partner
• Networking Lounge Partner
• Women in Water Breakfast Partner

• Technical Tours

Explore technical tours highlighting the latest innovation in Sydney, in partnership with Sydney Water and other hosts. We anticipate there will be three themed day-long bus tours:

• Open space irrigation projects around Sydney, including new and brownfield developments, in conjunction with Sydney Water
• Agriculture and horticulture irrigation case studies around and to the South of Sydney (Shoalhaven region)
• Viticulture case studies to the North of Sydney (Hunter region)

The Conference & Exhibition is a rare chance for the industry to come together under the same roof to celebrate our achievements and revolutionise the way we manage one of our most precious resources.

Hurry up and register, time is running out!

6. Netafim Drip & IRRICAD Link Seminars

Drip Seminar – REGISTER NOW

Speakers:

• Wayne Ingram, Netafim, Irrigation Products Technical Manager 
• Andrew Pollard, Netafim, Irrigation Products Business Manager 
• Katherine Munn, Netafim Market Development Manager

Agenda:

• UniRam™ & DripNet PC AS™ – Best in Class 
• Netafim Innovation
  • UniRam™ Hybrid
  • Orion™ PC
  • Insect Shield™
  • PCJ™ PRO
• Ancillary products
• Developing markets using Netafim dripline
• Question and Answers

IRRICAD Link Seminar – REGISTER NOW

Speakers:

• Gennaro Vellotti, Netafim, Irrigation Engineer Lead
• Dan Crosby, IRRICAD, Software Engineer

Agenda:

• IRRICAD Irrigation Design Software Demonstration 
• IRRICAD Pivot Module Demonstration
• New IRRICAD Features on The Horizon
• Question and Answers

Event Details
Date: Tuesday 3rd September 2024
Venue: International Convention & Exhibition, Sydney Centre, Room E3.1
Drip Seminar: 9:30am - 12:00pm (Morning Tea Provided)
IRRICAD Seminar: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Cost: $0. This is a free event!
Limited spaces available so please ensure you register ASAP!

7. FINAL CALL - Virtual Delivery of CMI Training

If you are thinking about becoming a 'Certified Meter Installer' and don't have time to travel, this is your last chance to take advantage of our Virtual delivery of the CMI course for 2024.

Equip yourself with the latest standards in meter validation and installation, increasing your value in a competitive job market.

Four days of Virtual training (4 hours per day) 
August 20th - 23rd 
Contact: training@irrigation.org.au for terms and Conditions.

Our other courses are now open. Secure your spot today so you don’t miss out!

• Certificate III in Irrigation Technology AHC32422 - NSW (irrigationaustralia.com.au)
• Meter Installation & Validation - Face-to-Face - Virtual (irrigationaustralia.com.au)
• Irrigation Installer Course - NSW (irrigationaustralia.com.au)
• Meter Installation & Validation - Face-to-Face - DUBBO (irrigationaustralia.com.au)
• Meter Installation & Validation - Face-to-Face - SA (irrigationaustralia.com.au)
• Certificate III in Irrigation Technology AHC32422 WA (irrigationaustralia.com.au)

There are funding opportunities available, click here to see if you are eligible! Need further clarification or answers to questions, email training@irrigation.org.au. 

8. Our new Irrigation Careers Website is now live!

We're thrilled to announce the launch of IrrigationCareers.org.au, your ultimate destination for forging a rewarding career in the irrigation industry! Whether you're starting and wanting to learn more about the industry or just looking to advance, this platform is designed to help you thrive in a field dedicated to sustainability and innovation.Visit Irrigation Careers now and start cultivating your future today!

We are going to keep working on improvements to the site, adding more useful resources to help members attract and retain staff. Please send any feedback on how it could be enhanced including useful links to info@irrigation.org.au.

9. Mental Health Article - That feeling of being Overwhelmed: A Guide for the Irrigation Industy

Across the irrigation industry, from our installers and pump technicians to our retail workers and all the other support workers that make the industry tick, the feeling of being overwhelmed is all too common. Those long hours, challenging conditions, and the pressure to meet deadlines can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. Recognising and managing this feeling is crucial for maintaining both your general health and job performance and has the potential to add a strain on our mental health.

What does it mean to feel overwhelmed?

Feeling overwhelmed occurs when you perceive that the demands placed on you exceed your ability to cope. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and a decrease in productivity. It’s not unusual to feel lost and alone with few options to turn to.

Some of the more common signs could include:

- Constant fatigue and a lack of energy

- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

- Feeling irritable or on edge all the time

- Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues

Why it's important to address This feeling of being overwhelmed.

Ignoring the signs of feeling overwhelmed are likely to lead to more severe mental health issues, such as depression and burnout if not addressed. It can also increase the risk of workplace incidents and accidents, particularly in those hands-on roles like installation and technical work, where focus and precision are critical.

Practical Tips to manage that feeling of being overwhelmed.

• Prioritise Tasks: Break down your tasks into smaller, manageable steps and prioritise them. Focus on one task at a time rather than juggling multiple things all at once.
• Take Regular Breaks: Short, frequent breaks can help clear your mind and reduce stress. Even a five-minute walk can make a significant difference.
• Communicate: Don’t hesitate to talk to your supervisor or colleagues if you're feeling overwhelmed. They can offer support, redistribute tasks, or provide solutions you might not have considered.
• Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to additional tasks if your plate is already full. It's important to recognise your limits and protect your time and energy.
• Practice Self-Care: Ensure you are taking care of your basic needs. Get enough sleep, eat well, and make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you relax.
• Seek Professional Help: If your feelings of being overwhelmed persist, consider talking to a GP or mental health professional. They can offer strategies and support to help you manage your stress effectively.

Implementing Workplace Controls

Employers in the irrigation industry can also play a significant role in helping workers to manage feelings of being overwhelmed. Controls that can be put in place include:

• Workload Management: Ensure workloads are reasonable and evenly distributed among employees.
• Flexible Scheduling: Offer flexible work hours or shifts to help employees balance work with personal responsibilities.
• Training and Resources: Provide training on time management, stress management, and mental health awareness.
• Support Systems: Establish a support system, such as an employee assistance program (EAP), where workers can seek help confidentially.

Feeling overwhelmed is a common challenge in all industries, including our irrigation industry, but it doesn't have to be a permanent state for those that it affects. By recognising the signs and taking proactive steps to manage stress, we can maintain our mental health and continue to perform our job effectively.

Remember, it's okay to ask for help and prioritise your well-being. Your health is just as important as the work you do.

Here are some symptoms that you might want to look out for and some helpful tips.

Fatigue: Constant tiredness or lack of energy, even after rest.

• Ensure adequate sleep, take regular breaks, and maintain a balanced diet.

Difficulty Concentrating: Struggling to focus on tasks or make decisions.

• Break tasks into smaller steps, limit distractions, and practice mindfulness.

Irritability: Feeling easily annoyed or angered.

• Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, and ensure regular physical activity.

Anxiety: Excessive worry or fear about everyday situations.

• Identify and challenge negative thoughts, use relaxation exercises, and consider professional counselling if needed.

It is always a good idea that you seek professional help if your symptoms remain, and recovery is not going the way you think it should.

Here are some controls that will help eliminate feelings of being overwhelmed in the workplace and at home -

Prioritise Tasks: Try and break tasks into manageable steps and focus on one at a time.

Take Regular Breaks: Short, frequent breaks will help clear the mind and reduce stress.

Go for a walk: An often overlooked, but simple control method which switches your focus awayfrom those issues and clears your mind. Allows you to reset and re-focus on those tasks needs to be completed.

Communicate: Talk to colleagues or supervisors about your workload and feelings.

Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to additional tasks when overwhelmed.

Practice Self-Care: Ensure adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and engage in activities that you enjoy.

Seek Professional Help: Consult your GP or mental health professionals for persistent symptoms.

Workload Management: Employers should ensure workloads are reasonable and evenly distributed.

Flexible Scheduling: Offer flexible work hours to help balance work and personal responsibilities.

Support Systems: Establish an employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential support.

TIACS – 0488 846 988, https://www.tiacs.org/ 

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 https://www.beyondblue.org.au 

Lifeline Australia 13 11 14, https://www.lifeline.org.au/ 

10. VegetablesWA - Limited Spaces Available! Free Intensive 1.5 Day Masterclass in Protected Cropping

WA vegetable growers and their staff are invited to participate in this intensive 1.5-day masterclass in Protected Cropping or attend one or more of the sessions below including New Water Grant info and Intro to PC.

Ideal training for irrigation staff or for growers who are relatively new to protected cropping. This masterclass will cover all the basics. Places are limited to please register by Friday 9 August, 2024. RSVP here with the names of the people you would like to attend and their dietary requirements (lunches, morning and afternoon tea provided). 

Details below, including program highlights. Or view the full program here.

11. Northern Basin Connectivity Export Panel - Release of Final Independent Report 

The Northern Basin Connectivity Expert Panel was established to provide independent advice to the Minister for Water on work being carried out to improve connectivity and flows into the Barwon-Darling River.

Release of final independent report

In July 2024, the panel provided their final report to the Minister outlining their findings and recommendations. These findings have been done independently of government. To determine the next steps, the department will: 

• take the time needed to consider the report and ensure we have the right data in front of us before making any decisions
• conduct detailed hydrological and economic modelling on all the panel’s proposed changes to fully understand their potential benefits and impacts
• give all water users an opportunity to have their say, including the usual processes for water sharing plan amendments
• issue updates on actions we will be taking.

While the NSW Government is focused on improving the health of the Barwon Darling River System it must be done in a way that does not have a detrimental impact on regional communities. 

Visit our website to access the panel's final findings and recommendations report.

12. Ag Trade Apprenticeship Feasability Report - Now Available

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Ag Trade Apprenticeship project which involved extensive stakeholder consultation, workshops and site visits across the country. Your feedback has been used to inform the Ag Trade Apprenticeship Feasibility Report which outlines the insights provided by stakeholders and presents advice for how an agricultural trade apprenticeship could be implemented.

The feasibility report notes a number of steps that need to be taken for successful implementation of an Ag Trade Apprenticeship. Three supplementary reports have also been published, with the first outlining the research methodology used for the project and the key data gathered. The second contains the example qualification research and testing that took place throughout the consultation workshops and the third is a guide to recognising apprenticeships and traineeships.

A steering committee of employers, industry bodies, unions and other relevant parties helped guide the consultation and research processes and provided input into the report.

Skills Insight looks forward to the continued collaboration with industry as the next steps in establishing an ag trade apprenticeship are considered.

The report has been reviewed and approved for publishing by the Agriculture Workforce Forum, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry the Hon Murray Watt and the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

For more information and to read the reports, visit the project page.

13. National Water Reform 2024

This report was sent to Government on 28 May 2024 and publicly released on 27 June 2024.

The report sets out the Commission’s findings and recommendations on the urgent need to renew the 2004 National Water Initiative, due to climate change and changing water demand. The report also sets out the Commission’s assessment of jurisdictions’ progress towards meeting the outcomes and objectives of the 2004 National Water Initiative.

To download the inquiry report, click here.

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.