e-News Edition #46 New

Date: 19-Jun-2025

Hot Topics

1. Boost your career in irrigation – Last chance for EOFY intakes and new FY25/26 courses now open!

2. Train smarter with our best value irrigation training - Discounted until 30 June

3. The countdown is on: Just 2 months until the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo!

4. Final call: Nominations closing soon for the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Awards

5. Expressions of Interest now open: Executive Committee roles

6. Welcoming our new members for May 2025

7. Irrigation Efficiency & Practical Skills Micro-credential launches with strong start

8. Building a stronger community together

9. Have your say: Help shape the future of careers in agriculture

10. Fashionably late to Men’s Health Week: Still worth the check-in

11. Exciting opportunities in irrigation: Four exciting roles now hiring

12. Upcoming Webinar: National Innovation Visa

13. Beware of spam emails impersonating Irrigation Australia

1. Boost your career in irrigation – Last chance for EOFY intakes and new FY25/26 courses now open!

It’s an exciting time at Irrigation Australia, not only are our final training intakes for the 2024/25 financial year closing soon, but we’re also thrilled to remind you that registrations are now open for our 2025/26 training courses up until December 2025! Whether you're looking to finish strong this financial year or planning your professional development for the year ahead, now is the time to act.

What’s in store for FY25/26?

We’re delivering our largest and most diverse training calendar yet. From nationally accredited qualifications to hands-on short courses, our programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge, practical skills, and industry recognition that sets you apart.

When you train with Irrigation Australia, you’re learning from the national peak body – dedicated to raising industry standards, supporting certified professionals, and advocating for sustainable water use across agriculture, horticulture, landscaping, urban design, and beyond.

June:

July:

August:

Exciting discounts on offer!

Take advantage of exclusive discounts when enrolling multiple staff members from the same company - it's a great way to upskill your team while saving on costs! Plus, if you're a member of Irrigation Australia, you'll enjoy special member discounts on all training programs. Reach out to training@irrigation.org.au to learn more.

You may be eligible for funding!

Irrigation Australia has a variety of funding and subsidies available in QLD, NSW, SA, and WA for the Certificate III in Irrigation Technology (AHC32424)! Click here to find out more and to see if you are eligible. If you have any questions, please email training@irrigation.org.au. Please note that at the time of writing, SAS contracts for Queensland are still yet to be confirmed.

Click here for all upcoming courses!

2. Train smarter with our best value irrigation training - Discounted until 30 June

Kickstart or grow your team’s irrigation skills with Irrigation Australia’s most cost-effective online training yet! Now available through a 12-month unlimited company subscription for company members, providing unlimited access for your staff to all three online courses. It’s a cost-effective and scalable way to ensure your team is equipped with the skills and knowledge required in today’s irrigation landscape.

Following the successful launch of our Introduction to Irrigation - Part A self-paced online course, we’re excited to expand our training suite with two brand-new learning pathways: Part B: Landscape and Part B: Agricultural. These new modules build on the solid foundation of Part A and are designed to deepen your understanding of irrigation practices in either landscape or agricultural contexts.

Course overview

Introduction to Irrigation - Part A is a four-hour, self-paced online course that provides foundational, non-accredited training based on Certificate II level content. Ideal for newcomers to the industry, including landscapers, property managers, and irrigation retail staff, it delivers clear, practical insights into key irrigation concepts and components. Widely praised as engaging and accessible, it's the perfect starting point for those with little to no prior experience.

Introduction to Irrigation - Part B: Landscape is a six-hour, self-paced online course based on non-accredited Certificate III level content. Designed for those working in urban and open space environments, it builds on foundational knowledge with more advanced topics like commercial systems, filtration, pumps, backflow prevention, basic design, wiring, hydraulics, and water efficiency.

Introduction to Irrigation - Part B: Agricultural is a five-hour, self-paced online course based on non-accredited Certificate III level content. Designed for those in or entering the agricultural sector, it covers key farm irrigation topics such as system types, pivots, drip and under-tree irrigation, filtration, fertigation, pumps, water meters, soil management, and monitoring technology.

Pricing (until 30 June)

Company Members - $550 incl. GST (Rises to $660 from 1 July)

Not a Member? Click here for instructions on becoming a member and sign up today to save!

Whether you're looking to sharpen your existing skills, onboard new staff, or support continued professional development, these courses offer practical, flexible learning for irrigation professionals at various stages of their career.

Click here to find out more and secure a subscription for your whole team today!

3. The countdown is on: Just 2 months until the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo!

Excitement is building as we edge closer to Western Australia’s most anticipated irrigation industry event, set to take place on Wednesday, 13 August at the stunning Novotel Vines Resort in Perth. With just two months to go and registrations filling fast, now ‘s the perfect time to secure your place.

Bringing together professionals from the urban landscape and irrigation sectors, the Waterwise Irrigation Expo is your chance to immerse yourself in water-wise innovation, engage with industry leaders, and help shape a more sustainable future.

This year’s event is shaping up to be our biggest and most inspiring yet, with a packed agenda including:

A cutting-edge Innovation Showcase hosted by major sponsor Hunter, featuring the latest in smart irrigation technologies
A powerful and uplifting presentation from TIACS, tackling the importance of mental health in our industry
A bustling exhibition space with 26 premium exhibitors, showcasing new products, tools, and water-saving solutions
Hands-on rotational site tours throughout The Vines Golf Course, bringing practical learning to life
A thought-provoking Waterwise panel discussion featuring Water Corporation and DWER
And of course, unmatched networking opportunities with the best in the business

With a future-focused agenda and a fresh new venue, the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo offers the perfect mix of learning, inspiration, and connection. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it – register now to lock in your spot!

Just one booth & two sponsorship opportunities left!

Want to showcase your products and services to a highly targeted audience of industry professionals, decision-makers, and innovators? Act quickly - only one exhibition booth remains! Download the Exhibitor Prospectus for full details on booth inclusions, sizing, and pricing, and see which leading businesses have already signed up!

We also have two exclusive sponsorship opportunities remaining:

Catering Sponsor - Put your brand at the heart of the action during morning tea, lunch, and afternoon breaks - the most social moments of the day. Your business will be front and centre, sparking connections and conversations.

Group Leaders Sponsor - Align your organisation with thought leadership, collaboration, and innovation. This high-profile opportunity gives you direct exposure to key stakeholders and professionals dedicated to improving water efficiency outcomes across the state.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this pivotal event. Download the Sponsorship Prospectus to explore the benefits and secure your involvement today.

If you have any questions, please reach out to rebecca.new@irrigation.org.au.

4. Final call: Nominations closing soon for the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Awards

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the outstanding people and projects shaping Australia’s irrigation industry - nominations close Monday, 30 June!

As we look ahead to the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo in Perth, we’re calling on members to submit final nominations for the following award categories:

Water Efficiency Management Awards

Celebrates individuals and organisations leading the way in outdoor water conservation and efficient water management. Open to members Australia-wide, with award categories for:

Individual
Small Business
Large Business

New: Irrigation Innovation Awards

Honours innovative, sustainable solutions that advance the irrigation industry. Recognises projects, products, or practices that reduce environmental impact. Categories include:

Individual
Small Business
Large Business

Distinguished Service Award

Recognises individuals with at least five years of industry experience who have shown outstanding leadership, dedication, and long-term impact in irrigation. If any nominations are received from outside WA, they will be referred to the appropriate regional committee for review before proceeding further.

If you know an individual or organisation that deserves recognition, we encourage you to nominate before 30 June!

Please note: Only current Irrigation Australia members are eligible to nominate.

5. Expressions of Interest now open: Executive Committee roles

Are you passionate about the irrigation industry? Ready to help shape its future and represent your region at a national level?

We’re calling for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for upcoming Executive Committee roles for South Australia and Victoria, a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and direction of our industry.

Whether you’re eager to make an impact, grow your leadership skills, or give back to the community, this is your chance to get involved in a meaningful way.

Interested?

Please contact Rebecca New at rebecca.new@irrigation.org.au by Thursday, 31 July 2025 to express your interest or learn more.

Now’s the time to step up, share your voice, and help lead the future of irrigation in Australia.

6. Welcoming our new members for May 2025

Irrigation Australia is excited to announce the addition of several new members for May 2025. These members bring fresh perspectives and a shared passion for advancing irrigation technologies and practices across the country.

Mr Matthew. F – WA
Mr Jamie. G – WA
Mr Ken. I – VIC
Mr Joel. L – WA
Mr Daniel. M – WA
Coliban Water – VIC
Trident Water – WA
Hiblow Australia – NSW
AG Warehouse (Bega) – NSW

Last chance to join by 30 June and get 3 months free!

As the peak national organisation representing Australia’s irrigation industry, Irrigation Australia offers unmatched support and resources to help you thrive. Our members span the entire sector, from manufacturers and retailers to water authorities and regulatory bodies, creating a powerful network for anyone in the field.

As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive networking events, discounted training and certification opportunities, industry insights, and member-only benefits including advocacy initiatives, discounted advertising in our publications, and regional updates to keep you informed and ahead of the curve.

To celebrate the launch of our bold new direction, shaped in collaboration with industry experts and focused on empowering our sector through knowledge, innovation, and sustainable practice, we’re offering an EOFY special. Join before 30 June 2025 and receive 3 months free on your first year of membership!

Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to connect, grow, and be part of the future of irrigation in Australia.

Join now and help shape a smarter, stronger industry.

7. Irrigation Efficiency & Practical Skills Micro-credential launches with strong start

Recently, we shared the exciting news that we’d lodged a funding application for a new micro-credential aimed at supporting new entrants to the irrigation industry.

We’re now thrilled to report that our Irrigation Efficiency and Practical Skills Micro-credential officially launched on Tuesday, 20 May, with a full class of 12 participants beginning their training journey.

Designed specifically for Queenslanders, this fully funded online course is helping new industry entrants build confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for their first supervised fieldwork or customer interactions.

Delivered over two engaging half-days, the course focuses on foundational knowledge in water, pumps, and energy efficiency, with hands-on maintenance techniques to support productivity, reduce waste, and lower operational costs. Participants also had the opportunity to explore future career development with our experienced Senior Trainer & Assessor, Stuart Alexander.

The feedback from our first intake has been overwhelmingly positive:

“This course has extended my knowledge on the irrigation industry and given me new skills to use in the real world.”

“A great course for anyone looking to better understand the irrigation industry or widen their knowledge on irrigation.”

It’s clear this is a great course for anyone looking to better understand the irrigation industry or widen their knowledge on irrigation, whether you're a newcomer, an employer upskilling your team, or someone exploring a future in water management.

Next intake scheduled for 19 – 20 August

With the first session complete and a growing waitlist, we’re excited to confirm our July intake is already full! The following intake will commence on 19 August.

Thanks to generous Queensland Government funding, this course remains available for just $110 incl. GST, and we plan to run monthly sessions over the next nine months. To meet our grant target, it is critical that we hit our target of 144 students and 50 employers by the end of the funding period.

If you or someone you know would benefit from this course, you can register for the upcoming August intake here or see what other dates are available here.

8. Building a stronger community together

We recently asked members to share their thoughts in our Membership Satisfaction Survey, and the feedback has been both insightful and inspiring. With an impressive overall average satisfaction score of 4 out of 5, we’re thrilled to see strong support for the work we’re doing together.

Members told us the most valued benefits include:

Access to training and accreditation
Opportunities for networking and events
A deeper connection to the industry and a sense of belonging to a national industry body

These insights are helping shape our future direction, focused on expanding professional networks, growing training and certification opportunities, and supporting innovation across the industry. There are always areas for improvement including response times – but the feedback is essential to us and in some instances has helped us identify issues with systems that we would not otherwise have known about.

And now for some exciting news - three lucky members have been randomly selected in our prize draw for completing the survey. Congratulations to our three winners and everyone who participated:

Lauren Dealy – BD Water
John Baker – Rockingham Mobile Mowing
Brett Waters

Your voice is helping us deliver even greater value to the irrigation community across Australia!

9. Have your say: Help shape the future of careers in agriculture

Stakeholders across the agriculture sector are invited to have their say on how to improve the visibility and appeal of careers in agriculture, an essential step in strengthening industry-wide efforts in recruitment, retention, and workforce development.

Your feedback will contribute to identifying a potential agricultural trade qualification pathway and refining how career pathways are represented and understood within the sector.

An Ag Qualification Career Mapping document has been developed, highlighting how AHC Training Package qualifications align with industry sectors, job titles, AQF levels, and career stages. Now, the industry is being asked to review and provide feedback on:

The education and experience requirements for entry-level, trade, and managerial roles
Whether current AHC Training Package job titles reflect real-world industry titles
Suggestions for alternative job titles that may better match current industry practices

Click here to contribute your insights and help shape a more visible and effective career pathway for Australia's agricultural workforce or reach out to dave.cameron@irrigation.org.au if you would like to contribute ideas to Irrigation Australia’s submission.

10. Fashionably late to Men’s Health Week: Still worth the check-in

Men’s Health Week is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a timely reminder to stop, take stock, and have real conversations, especially in industries like ours, where long hours, seasonal pressure, and working in isolation are part of the job.

Across the irrigation sector, from pump sheds to paddocks, workshops to water meters, our workforce is predominantly male. And while we pride ourselves on resilience, hard work, and problem-solving, the truth is: when it comes to our health, especially mental health, many of us find it tough to speak up.

That’s where Irrigation Australia is stepping up.

A commitment to mental health

Irrigation Australia continues to support mental health awareness across the industry, recognising that good mental health is just as vital as physical safety. Through training, conversations, partnerships and publications, we’re creating space for honest discussions, not only during Men’s Health Week but year-round.

We’ve helped spark these discussions through our “Let’s Talk About Mental Health” series, short-form articles and e-news stories that connect with everyone from new apprentices to senior managers. We understand that rural and regional work can be isolating, and that means the mental load can sneak up on people.

Normalising the conversation

Sometimes it’s not about solving problems, it’s about being the kind of industry where checking in with a mate feels just as natural as checking water pressure.

We’ve been proud to promote organisations like TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter), who offer free, professional mental health support to workers in trade and rural industries. Their text and call services are discreet, confidential, and accessible - a lifeline for many who may not otherwise reach out.

We’ve also worked to align our training and workplace initiatives with the latest psychosocial safety guidance under WHS laws, reinforcing that mental health is a workplace safety issue, not a personal one to carry alone.

Start the conversation: One shirt at a time

One simple yet powerful way the industry is keeping mental health on the radar is through TradeMutt - the Aussie workwear brand with a bold message. Their loud and colourful shirts are designed to start conversations, quite literally, with "This Is A Conversation Starter" stitched across the back.

Funky Shirt Friday is a national initiative that encourages people to wear their TradeMutt shirts every Friday to keep the conversation going in a light, positive way.

But at Irrigation Australia, we don’t wait for Friday. You’re just as likely to see one of our trainers or staff in a TradeMutt shirt on a Monday, Wednesday or any other day of the week. It’s not just a statement. It’s a reminder that every day is the right day to talk about mental health.

What can you do?

Ask someone how they’re really going. Not just a passing "how’s things?" but a genuine check-in. Then listen.

Check your own batteries. When was the last time you had a proper break, booked a GP appointment, or had a yarn about what’s on your mind?

Use the resources. TIACS, Beyond Blue, and Head to Health are just a few services ready to support. You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out.

Lead by example. If you’re a supervisor or business owner, let your team know it’s OK to speak up.

Looking forward

The conversation around men’s health - mental, physical, and emotional - is shifting, and Irrigation Australia is committed to keeping that conversation going. Because a strong industry isn’t just about efficient systems and skilled workers. It’s about healthy people, too.

Let’s check in, not just check on.

11. Exciting opportunities in irrigation: Four exciting roles now hiring

Looking to grow your career in irrigation or landscaping? We’ve added four exciting full-time roles to the Irrigation Careers Jobs Board over the past week, each offering great opportunities to work with leading industry employers across Western Australia. Whether you're a seasoned supervisor or hands-on technician, there’s something for everyone.

Landscape Supervisor - Peel Scape Solutions, Mandurah, WA

Lead landscape and irrigation crews on-site to deliver high-quality projects across residential, commercial, and government spaces.

Key Responsibilities:

Supervise on-site teams and manage timelines
Ensure quality and adherence to plans
Order materials and liaise with clients and suppliers
Promote safe, efficient worksites

Commercial Irrigation Serviceman - Newground Water Services, Perth Metro, WA

Maintain and repair irrigation systems across commercial and public sites, ensuring optimal performance and client satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

Diagnose and repair faults
Adjust and test controllers (e.g. Rain Bird, Hunter)
Conduct system checks and write reports
Work independently and in a team

Commercial Irrigation Installer - Newground Water Services, Perth Metro, WA

Install large-scale irrigation systems for parks, sports fields, and commercial developments.

Key Responsibilities:

Read site plans and install components
Lay pipes, set up controllers
Troubleshoot on-site issues
Deliver projects to deadline

Pumps Sales & Projects - Newground Water Services, Perth Metro, WA

Provide expert pump solutions from sales through to installation and ongoing support.

Key Responsibilities:

Recommend and quote pump systems
Manage pump projects end-to-end
Liaise with clients, suppliers, and technicians
Deliver excellent customer service

Click here to apply for any of the above positions or explore other job opportunities available right now and take the next step in your irrigation career today!

12. Upcoming Webinar: National Innovation Visa

Are you an emerging or established leader looking to contribute to Australia’s economic future? The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs invites you to an upcoming National Innovation Visa (NIV) information webinar, a unique opportunity to learn about a streamlined visa program designed to attract top global talent.

The NIV is a key part of Australia’s strategy to drive innovation, create jobs, and boost investment across critical industries. Tailored for exceptional individuals, the program seeks to engage leaders who can deliver long-term economic impact.

Webinar sessions are available at two convenient times:

Tuesday, 15 July at 11:00 am – 12:00 pm AEST

Thursday, 17 July at 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm AEST

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore your future in Australia’s innovation ecosystem. Click here to register.

13. Beware of spam emails impersonating Irrigation Australia

We’ve recently been made aware of spam emails circulating that falsely claim to be from Irrigation Australia. These emails may reference the sale or access to our mailing list or other misleading offers.

Please be assured that Irrigation Australia does not share or sell member contact information, and we take the protection of your data seriously.

Unfortunately, we are unable to prevent spam emails from being sent by third parties, but we are committed to helping keep our community informed. If you receive one of these emails, please forward it to us at info@irrigation.org.au so we can monitor the situation and share updates in our regular e-newsletter to help others stay alert.

Thank you for your continued support.

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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