e-News Edition #31

Date: 20-Sep-2024

Hot Topics

It's a wrap - Irrigation Australia Conference & Exhibition
Read the Latest Irrigation Journal - Spring 2024 Edition
LAST INTAKES FOR 2024 - Secure your Spot Now!
NSW Government Changes to Water Meter Compliance
Mental Health Article - Looking Forward Not Behind You
National Irrigators' Council release urging States to reject the new Federal Government National Water Agreement
Five Western Australia Golf Courses have now been recognised for their efforts as part of the Waterwise Golf Program
You're invited to attend Drill24, Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA) Event

1. It's a wrap - Irrigation Australia Conference & Exhibition

Our Irrigation Australia Conference and Exhibition was delivered on Wednesday 4 September, with the ICID International Executive Council finalised on Saturday 7 September. We had a great event with almost 1,400 delegates and visitors over its course.

Some highlights

Excellent presentations and panel sessions; particularly those convened on the benefits of irrigation agriculture and our women in water panel.
An incredible conference dinner and awards night – with an exceptional presentation from Jason Banks from TIACS and plenty on the dance floor at the end of the night…
Some of the things we tried to get people engaged – especially the Garry the Pipe Robot building challenge, and interactive zone. Plenty to be built on for future events.

Where to from here?

Every session in the Pyrmont Theatre was recorded and we are working through those now to have available on our website.
Photos from the event are available here.
Speaker presentations are available here.
We are working through each of the interactive sessions and recommendations received to build actions into our work plan. If you have ideas you’ve not shared in a survey or directly with us, please do!
We have a lot to work on, especially engaging better with Young Professionals – a focus for the next more modest, national event (in a regional location).
Our board meets to review all on 18 September, and we will make more announcements around the next event following that feedback. In the meantime – full steam ahead for the next Waterwise Expo in Perth in August 2025!

Awards

Maclean Iedema

Scott MacLean and Don Iedema were strong supporters and contributors to the Irrigation Association of Australia (IAA) during its early years. Both men were involved in the organisation at a regional and national level, and Scott was a former chairman.

As partners and principals of the then large retail irrigation supply chain, Aquafield McCracken, they expressed their commitment to the irrigation industry through the support of their business and the contribution of their time to the Association and its ideals. Scott, Don, and Roger Bell, an employee and talented, well-respected irrigation designer with a young family, tragically all lost their lives in a light aircraft accident in 1995.

In recognition of their contribution to the irrigation industry and the association, the IAA decided to create an award to perpetuate and honor their memory.

The award recognises an outstanding individual who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of the irrigation industry or a sector of the industry. In this case, two awards were presented:

1. Ben Chapman

Ben Chapman has spent over 45 years in the irrigation industry, stepping back from his role as MD of Project Pumps & Irrigation last year after 15 years in the business. As the ultimate modern measure of success, his farewell post on LinkedIn attracted 92 individual comments, with most making specific reference to his contribution to the industry.

Ben is respected throughout the industry for his innovation, experience, and his commitment to quality.

Technically, his achievements are too numerous to list, but the highlights reel includes landscaping and irrigation design and project management for Singapore’s “Super Trees,” Prime Minister Mahatir’s residence in Malaysia along with the Putrajaya Technology Park, Nudgee Golf Course, Cam Smith’s home of Wantima, and racecourses around the country.

Ben proudly celebrated his 20 years as a Certified Irrigation Designer at the event and has supported Irrigation Australia and its predecessors as a volunteer for many years – from chairing the Queensland committee to cooking the bacon and egg burgers at the site tour of the Minnippi Golf Course at Cannon Hill last year.

Ben’s colleagues typically classify him as collaborative and one who freely gives advice and support, whether you might theoretically be a business competitor or not. He is a mentor to many and a natural leader in every project he undertakes.

He genuinely cares about people, quality work, and enhancing the reputation of our industry.

2. Chris Thompson

Chris “Thommo” Thompson is well-known within the irrigation industry nationally. He’s widely recognised as a blue-sky thinker, leader, and mentor who, over a 45-year period, has had significant influence on irrigation development and water management in Australia.

Chris was an active member of the Irrigation Association of Australia (IAA) in the 1990s, holding various positions including Chairman of the IAA certification board and the first Australian board member on the United States Irrigation Association (IA) Certification Board of Governors. He played a pivotal role in the metrification of the CID program for IAA and was one of the very first to be awarded a CID in Australia.

Chris was the driving force for the adoption of center pivot irrigation systems for broad acre irrigation in Tasmania. In 1994, he designed the very first systems installed and was active in promoting the technology and convincing the local farming industry they were the way forward.

Chris has also been instrumental in the development of the majority of Tasmania's large-scale (state and federally funded) irrigation delivery schemes built by Tasmanian Irrigation, the Ord River development, advice on sustainable irrigation supply to the Northern Territory, amongst many other major projects.

Chris is currently Technical Director and Global Water Leader at Pinion Advisory and has served as a Director of Tasmanian Irrigation. He is an incredible mentor and champion of young professionals, has supported strategic water resource planning in Timor Leste, and volunteered his time to educate and support extensively.

Water Efficiency Management Awards individual category

Steven Boyer, City of Perth

During 2018, the City awarded a contract for the supply and installation of a City-wide irrigation central control, transforming more than 100 irrigation controllers into one integrated system. The rollout of this project occurred during the irrigation season, meaning that on a daily basis irrigation controllers were being swapped out, and the subsequent database for (flow and precipitation rates) required daily data entry to ensure the ‘water was kept on’. The basis for this upgrade was to future-proof the City’s irrigation control. Yes, it includes the benefits of remote shutdown for rainfall events and app control for testing. However, the key ambition was the transition away from time-based irrigation schedules to Evapotranspiration (ET) based irrigation schedules to ensure that water use aligned or met the needs of the plants/turf being irrigated.

Steve’s ongoing efforts to improve irrigation scheduling outcomes have resulted in groundwater savings of 718,450kL or 718,450,000L. An equivalent of 287 Olympic-sized swimming pools of groundwater have been saved over the past three irrigation seasons. On average, this equated to being 29.74% under allocation. He continues to excel and innovate, constantly tackling new challenges for the City.

Water Efficiency Management Awards individual category

Inform Ag

Inform Ag is a technology company established by farmers for farmers – developing a series of remote and smart water management technologies. Solutions are tailored to the needs of crops, ultimately meaning better application, reduced energy consumption, and water savings in the order of 33%.

GrowData Irrigate is Inform Ag’s cloud-based Wi-Fi connected irrigation system that talks to everything else. This single point of truth utilizes Microsoft’s latest cloud platform and reporting, bringing to the market a simple-to-use system.

Water Efficiency Management Awards large business category

City of Cockburn

The City of Cockburn is a gold waterwise council and has maintained this status for over 10 years. Cockburn has been very proactive with its management of groundwater for irrigation of public open space. As an example of its significant innovation - Cockburn has repurposed irrigation electrical cabinets and converted them into dosing cabinets. Liquid wetting agent and products like Biowish, which provides beneficial organisms to help improve turf health and manage sting nematodes, can then be injected when irrigating.

Combined with soil moisture sensors and various other smart technologies, the City is well-geared to respond to impending reduced groundwater allocations.

Innovation in Sustainability

Monash University

Monash University developed a water harvesting system from storm water and rainwater for irrigation and toilet flushing across its 3 major campuses: Clayton, Caufield, and Frankston, covering approximately 30+ hectares of sports turf, amenity turf, garden beds, and approximately 1800+ toilet tanks from student residential rooms and building offices. Each campus has rainwater tanks from 20,000 to 600,000-liter capacity, totaling 4.2 million liters, positioned strategically in areas to capture rain from rooftops and storm water from roads and pathways. These tanks are designed to be filled up from the main water harvesting system through an underground piping ring-main system in a "no-rain" condition. The system is capable of pumping recycled water up to 800,000 liters a day if required.

Each campus has weather stations, irrigation controllers, level transducers for tanks, pumps and filter (screen and UV) systems, and smart water metering devices (actual usage), using IoT technology, all controlled and monitored remotely to assist in delivering effective and efficient use of water.

Ultimately resulting in a 25-40% reduction in usage and a 90% reduction in reliance on potable water. Monash University has cooperated with Water Sensitive Cities and Monash Sustainable Development Institute on campus tours and workshops for international and local delegates, demonstrating the proper use of technology on recycled water in a large urban and commercial operation.

Innovation in Safety

Sunwater (and Woodfield Engineering)

The nominated project was the design and fabrication of a removable mobile work platform, to be secured onto the existing Clare Weir gantry crane’s downstream rail-track during use. Clare Weir is located in North Queensland on the Burdekin River, a critical piece of infrastructure in the Burdekin Haughton Irrigation Scheme.

The platform was used to provide safe access for staff to work while installing permanent survey points into Clare Weir - essential to complete deformation surveys. The platform was constructed from aluminum and included handrailing, steps, decking, locking plates, and wheels, allowing it to roll along the Weir’s spillway with little more than a push.

The mobile work platform was the critical component of this project, significantly reducing the risk involved for staff to complete the works. It was a far more robust, safer, and usable means of access than other options (e.g., attaching scaffolding/platforms to the Gantry Crane; suspending workers from the Gantry Crane using workboxes, harnesses, ropes, etc.). It is difficult to imagine the works being completed in such a controlled manner, without using this platform.

Following its initial use and exposure to the wider business (e.g., annual dam safety inspections), further uses for the platform were identified.

Emerging Leader

Stephen Jennings

Stephen started off as a fitter at Brown Brothers building pumps and pump-sets. From there, he progressed to sales and today finds himself as Franklin Electric’s National Sales Manager. His key qualities listed in his nomination include honesty, ethics, trustworthiness, and being a natural leader and teacher.

Stephen articulates a clear vision of the future for his business, providing direction and purpose. He understands his own limitations, seeks feedback, and encourages others to learn from mistakes as well as to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional methods. He is a respected mentor and educator. He is a champion for efficiency, sustainability, and safety in pumping operations.

Life Membership

Andrew Ogden

Andrew first served as a director of Irrigation Australia in 2013 and was elected as Chair the following year, a role he was re-elected to until stepping aside in 2022 as part of a planned succession before his maximum ten-year tenure as an Irrigation Australia director expired.

Andrew brought to the IAL board his extensive knowledge of the pumping, drilling, and irrigation industries gained over many years of involvement. Since 1992, he has been Managing Director of one of the leading water businesses in Western Australia and applied the same qualities which built that business into an industry leader to his role at Irrigation Australia, overseeing the expansion of the RTO and training activities, developing more sustainable revenue models, and ensuring the next growth phase of IAL through his involvement in the selection of our new CEO, Dave Cameron.

Andrew’s tenure also included overcoming the challenges of COVID. Together with the executive team, Andrew helped IAL not only survive COVID but emerge stronger.

At Irrigation Australia, we are very fortunate to have such a person working with us in this industry. Andrew not only supports the industry but imparts and shares his experience wherever he can. His presence is felt in many sectors of the industry, ranging from:

The mining Industry
Agricultural industry
Drilling (both domestic and commercial)
Liaising with government departments on all levels and all aspects of water conservation, management, and water usage through planning and managed projects.

Andrew gives back at every opportunity, generously sharing his knowledge and experience in a way that encourages people to become involved and make change.

In a personal and professional capacity, Andrew also supports many groups, associations, and individuals in the community.

He has held several voluntary roles over the years, including:

President of the Windelya Sports Association
Director and Vice Chairman of the Australian Drilling Industry
Training Committee and National President of the Australian Drilling Association.

He also continues in his role as Secretary of the WA Regional Committee of Irrigation Australia.

As an organisation, Irrigation Australia has benefitted greatly from Andrew’s advice and commitment to his role. His professionalism and integrity are second to none, including his ability to apply his high standards to his own contributions in the pursuit of even better results.

Exhibitor awards and other exhibition prizes

Congratulations to the below exhibitor awards!

Best Shell Scheme – Grundfos Pumps
Best Custom Stand – Bermad Water Technologies
Best Interactive Zone Presentation – Plasson Australia
Scavenger Hunt Winner – Iain MacLeod

Congratulations to the below Garry Time Challenge Winners:

1^st Place – Jake Lott
2^nd Place – Jarrod Galipo
3^rd Place – Clinton Hort

A final round of thank you’s

To our Irrigation Australia staff;
Our amazing IACID committee (and more specifically Momir Vranes as our committee chair);
Our very supportive board and particularly Simon Treptow as board chair;
The Event Gap, our friendly and over-achieving Professional Conference Organisers;
Our exhibitors and particularly our sponsors – Franklin Electric, Davey Rain Bird, Brown Brothers, Rubicon, and Sterling Pumps;
The support of Business Events Sydney and the NSW government;
I.C.I.D. and all of our international delegates, our Australian delegates and visitors, and all who took the time to present, convene a workshop or panel, or chair a session, along with our amazing tour hosts.

The contribution of many volunteers can easily be overlooked, but is a credit to our industry.

2. Read the latest Irrigation Journal - Spring 2024 Edition

Packed with insightful articles, groundbreaking case studies and research, and the latest industry updates concerning technology, training, and all things irrigation, this edition promises to be a valuable addition to your reading list!

Click here to read the full Spring edition of the Irrigation Australia Journal.

3. LAST INTAKES FOR 2024 - Secure your spot now!

Unlock your potential with our nationally accredited Meter Installation and Validation training, designed specifically for professionals like you!

Here's just a few reasons you should sign up for our next intake today:

Expert instruction - Learn from industry-leading trainers who bring years of valuable experience and knowledge.
Career advancement - Equip yourself with the latest standards in validation and installation, increasing your value in a competitive job market!
Certification - Upon successful completion, you will earn a nationally-recognised Statement of Attainment and become certified, awarding yourself a point of difference in the market!

Ready to take the next step? Register now to secure your spot!

Irrigation Pumps and Systems Course - 3 Full Days Face to Face – Perth, WA
Certified Irrigation Operator Course – 3 Full Days Face to Face – Brisbane, QLD
Electrofusion & Butt Welding Course - 2 Full Days Face to Face - Brisbane, QLD
Irrigation Efficiency Course – Face-to-Face - Perth, WA
Meter Installation & Validation Course - 3 Full Days Face to Face - Brisbane, QLD
Certificate III in Irrigation Course - 5 Full Days - Adelaide, SA
Electrofusion & Butt Welding Course - 2 Full Days , NSW

FUNDING OPTIONS AVAILABLE! 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.

4. NSW Government Change to Water Meter Compliance

The NSW government has completed its review of the NSW non-urban metering framework and is implementing reforms aimed at making it easier for water users to comply with the rules. The review identified several roadblocks to compliance including a shortage of qualified meter installers, inconsistent rules, and high costs for smaller users.

Over the next 12 months, the government is prioritising key recommendations including:

Focusing resources on larger, high-risk water users first.
Expanding the tamper-evident meter installer workforce through more certification pathways and better training.
Increasing direct support to meter installers in the field.
Making it cheaper, easier, and faster for smaller and low-risk users to comply with the rules.
Strengthening the regulator’s enforcement powers.
Extending deadlines for larger coastal water users to 1 December 2026.

The changes are summarised at Review of the non-urban metering rules | NSW Government Water and the site includes a link to the full report.

Most significant to members and Certified Professionals are changes for “smaller and low-risk water users”:

“While smaller and low-risk water users will be given the flexibility to install cheaper measurement options, they will still be required to record and report their licensed water take to ensure accountability and transparency. This strategic reallocation of resources will help ensure that the vast majority of licensed water take in NSW is measured, recorded, and reported by December 2026.”

Irrigation Australia has reviewed and streamlined training underpinning its CMI and CSV courses, and we are working through the available Continuing Professional Development options for ongoing Certification, following great feedback provided at the recent workshop held in Sydney. We will continue to work with the government to ensure the best outcomes for all stakeholders.

5. Mental Health Article - Looking Forward - Not Behind You

Looking Forward – Not Behind You

Sometimes this advice is given by those who want to move you away from the past, often with good intention. It's good advice in many ways until you walk into a pole and break your nose!

While the thought of going back over the past may spark anxiety and panic attacks, shifting your perspective to focus on its positive aspects can transform the experience to one of celebration and personal growth. For irrigation professionals, the review process is not just about looking back on past performance — it’s about building a strong foundation for future success.

Managing Anxiety Over Past Experiences: Mental Health Strategies for Irrigation Professionals

Anxiety stemming from past experiences is a challenge faced by many professionals, especially those in high-stress environments such as the Irrigation Industry. Here are some strategies to help irrigation professionals move forward:

Reflect on Lessons, Not Regrets: Instead of viewing past mistakes as failures, ask yourself: “What lessons can I take from past experiences that will help me grow as a professional?”
Build Positive Habits for the Future: Try developing new routines and skills to create a sense of ability and talent.
Separate Self-Worth from Mistakes: Recognising that mistakes are a natural part of learning allows you to be kinder to yourself.
Set Small, Achievable Goals: Breaking down your career and personal development into achievable steps can help reduce stress.
Be Mindful of the World Around Us: Simple mindfulness exercises can reduce the intensity of anxious thoughts.
Challenge Negative Thoughts by Recalling Past Successes: When anxiety over past experiences arises, ask yourself: “What evidence do I have that I’ve successfully overcome challenges before?”
Build a Support Network: Having someone to talk to can provide perspective and encouragement during tough times.
Focus on Growth: Continuous improvement – not perfection – should be the goal.
Reframe Failures as Continuing Professional Development: Every mistake offers a unique learning opportunity.
Prioritise Self-Care: Self-care can significantly enhance your resilience to stress.

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/

6. National Irrigators' Council release urging States to reject the new Federal Government National Water Agreement

Please note the release from the National Irrigators Council, click here.

Public consultation on the NWA principles closed on 18 September. While Irrigation Australia lodged a submission on behalf of members, the process conducted to establish an important piece of long-term policy for water management in Australia was rushed and leaves many unanswered questions. We support the call for a robust consultation process.

7. Five Western Australia Golf Courses have now been recognised for their efforts as part of the Waterwise Golf Program

To view the media release from the WA State Government, click here.

8. You're invited to attend Drill24, Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA) Event

Australian Drilling Industry Association has offered Irrigation Australia members the chance to attend the event at ADIA member rates.

Details for the event are below.

Event: Drill24

Date: 15^th to 17^th October 2024

Venue: Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

To find out more information and register, click here.

ADIA hopes that Irrigation Australia members will benefit greatly by attending Drill24 as the exhibition and conference speaking program centres around the latest innovations in drilling technology and techniques.

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.

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