e-News Edition #47 New

Date: 03-Jul-2025

Hot Topics

1. Grow your career in irrigation - Upcoming courses are filling fast!

2. Upcoming certification updates and pathways unveiled in free webinar

3. Unlock smarter, scalable irrigation training

4. Get ready, Perth - The Waterwise Irrigation Expo returns in just 7 weeks!

5. Now open: New Irrigation Efficiency & Practical Skills Micro-credential intakes for QLD

6. Join the team that keeps Emerald growing

7. A chat worth having: Mental health across cultures in the irrigation industry

8. Upcoming Webinar: Real jobs, real wages – Recruitment support to grow your workforce

1. Grow your career in irrigation - Upcoming courses are filling fast!

It’s a busy time at Irrigation Australia, and places are filling quickly for our upcoming training courses from July onwards. Whether you're starting your irrigation career or looking to sharpen your skills, now is the time to secure your spot – some intakes are already closing soon!

What’s on offer?

We’re delivering our most comprehensive training calendar yet, including nationally accredited qualifications and hands-on short courses. These programs are designed to give you the knowledge, practical skills, and industry recognition that set you apart in irrigation, agriculture, landscaping, urban design, and beyond.

When you train with Irrigation Australia, you're learning from the national peak body – committed to raising industry standards and promoting sustainable water use across Australia.

July:

Meter Installation & Validation | Brisbane, QLD | 22 - 24 July CLOSING SOON
Irrigation Systems Efficiency | Adelaide, SA | 22 - 24 July LIMITED-TIME OPPORTUNITY FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA

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.

Irrigation Australia has just had Queensland funding renewed this week. Instructions will be issued to all prospective students – noting that there are a lot changes to terminology with the Career Boost program being of most relevance to existing employees interested in undertaking the Certificate III in Irrigation Technology.

Click here for all upcoming courses!

2. Upcoming certification updates and pathways unveiled in free webinar

Irrigation Australia invites industry professionals to a free webinar on Wednesday, 16 July at 1 PM (AEST), showcasing major updates to its professional certification programs.

This session will highlight the launch of the Australian-led Certified Irrigation Designer (CID) Program, a key advancement in recognising design excellence through locally tailored examinations. From 1 July, CID assessments will be delivered by Irrigation Australia, with content specifically focused on Australian projects and practices, making certification more accessible and relevant than ever before.

The webinar will also seek feedback on a new offering designed to deliver a training and certification program for auditors working in landscape systems, as well as new CPD opportunities for existing Certified Professionals.

As the industry faces growing pressure to optimise water use and improve system performance, certified professionals are more important than ever. This webinar is a valuable opportunity to stay informed and take the next step in your professional development. Register now to secure your place.

3. Unlock smarter, scalable irrigation training

Set your team up for success with Irrigation Australia’s most affordable and flexible training option yet. Our 12-month unlimited company subscription for online courses is available now at a special discounted rate for company members, and we’ve already seen a fantastic uptake from members signing up their entire teams for this valuable training!

Give your staff unlimited access to our complete online training suite, designed to build foundational knowledge and expand expertise across both landscape and agricultural irrigation systems. It’s the smart, scalable way to train your team, all for just $660 incl. GST!

Three online courses, one powerful subscription

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.

Why choose the company subscription?

Unlimited access for your staff for 12 months
Scalable, cost-effective training solution
Supports onboarding and upskilling
Access to all three online courses – anytime, anywhere

Pricing

Company Members - $660 incl. GST

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

Whether you're onboarding new team members, building technical knowledge, or supporting long-term career growth, this subscription is the easiest way to level up your workforce.

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

4. Get ready, Perth - The Waterwise Irrigation Expo returns in just 7 weeks!

Excitement is building as we count down to Western Australia’s leading irrigation event, the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo, happening Wednesday, 13 August at the stunning Novotel Vines Resort, Perth!

With just 7 weeks to go and registrations filling fast, now’s the time to lock in your place and be part of an inspiring day focused on innovation, sustainability, and smarter irrigation solutions.

This is your opportunity to connect with professionals from across the urban landscape and irrigation sectors, learn from thought leaders, and explore real-world applications of waterwise technology.

What to expect

The 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo is shaping up to be our biggest and most impactful yet, with a future-focused agenda that includes:

A project spotlight, allowing you to hear firsthand from Rain Bird, Western Irrigation, and Living Turf on The Vines Golf Course’s multi-million-dollar irrigation system upgrade
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 trade show 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
A fun mini golf challenge, with awards up for grabs for best (and worst) players
A sneak peek at Irrigation Australia’s brand-new learning management system – Ammonite
Waterwise Awards Presentation, where we’ll be recognising and celebrating the outstanding contributions of individuals and businesses to water efficiency and sustainability

With a brand-new venue, interactive sessions, and a full day of learning and connection, this is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about sustainable irrigation. Check out the full event program to plan your day and see who’s exhibiting at this year’s event.

Register now to secure your spot – spaces are limited!

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

5. Now open: New Irrigation Efficiency & Practical Skills Micro-credential intakes for QLD

We’re excited to share that our Irrigation Efficiency & Practical Skills (Micro-credential) is now officially underway, with the first session held in May receiving strong participation and great feedback from those who attended.

This non-accredited online course has been developed specifically for Queensland and is funded by the Queensland Government to help new entrants gain practical irrigation skills, build confidence, and get field-ready for their first role in the industry.

Delivered online over two half-days, the course covers essential knowledge in water, pumps, and energy efficiency, along with hands-on maintenance techniques designed to reduce waste, boost productivity, and lower operating costs. Participants are also guided through career opportunities by our 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.”

Upcoming intakes

Course cost

Thanks to generous Queensland Government funding, this course remains available for just $110 incl. GST, with approximately 80% of the total course cost subsidised.

To meet our funding target, we aim to support 144 students and 50 employers by March 2026 – so if you, your team, or someone you know would benefit, we encourage early registration.

View all upcoming intakes and register here.

6. Join the team that keeps Emerald growing

Are you passionate about working outdoors and playing a vital role in supporting agriculture and regional communities? Fairbairn Irrigation Network is looking for a motivated Irrigation Channel Operator to help deliver water to the heart of Emerald’s farming region.

This is more than just a job, it’s an opportunity to be part of a dedicated team that sustains one of Queensland’s most productive agricultural areas. As an Irrigation Channel Operator, you’ll contribute directly to the efficient and reliable flow of water across the region, helping to grow our local economy and support sustainable farming practices.

What you’ll be doing:

Operating and monitoring irrigation channels, gates, and structures
Performing inspections and maintenance on channel infrastructure
Communicating with growers and managing daily water orders
Recording usage data and contributing to asset performance tracking
Assisting with vegetation and weed control within the channel network
Ensuring safety and environmental compliance across the network

Whether you're experienced in irrigation or looking to start a rewarding new career in water operations, this is your chance to make a difference in a growing region.

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

7. Let’s Talk About Mental Health: A chat worth having

We’re excited to bring our Let’s Talk About Mental Health series, launched last year on LinkedIn, to our e-newsletter! Every Friday, we’ve been sharing articles aimed at raising awareness and encouraging meaningful conversations about mental health in our industry. Now, we’ll continue posting shorter versions on our social media channels while delivering the full articles straight to your inbox. We’re passionate about supporting the wellbeing of our irrigation community, so if there’s a topic you’d like us to explore, don’t hesitate to get in touch at maddison.coward@irrigation.org.au.

Mental health across cultures in the irrigation industry

Ever tried fixing a jammed valve with the wrong spanner? It doesn’t work - and supporting someone’s mental health without cultural understanding is no different.

In the irrigation industry, we’re a diverse mob - working across city parks, cane fields, cotton farms, and everything in between. Among our workforce are many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, whose perspectives on health and wellbeing can differ greatly from Western views.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health First Aid (AMHFA) guidelines remind us that mental health isn’t just in the head - it’s social, emotional, cultural, and spiritual too. For example, someone seeing spirits or hearing voices might be experiencing a meaningful cultural connection, not necessarily a symptom of illness. Misunderstanding this could stop someone from reaching out for support.

And let’s not forget communication. A direct question or firm eye contact might feel normal to one person but disrespectful to another. Sometimes, the best way to connect is a casual chat - maybe over a cuppa or while checking on a pump - not a sit-down interview.

The key? Respect, listening, and checking in the right way. That includes understanding the importance of family, community, and country. With the person’s consent, involving trusted community members can make a huge difference.

Also important is acknowledging history - displacement, and ongoing inequalities still affect mental health today. A little understanding here goes a long way.

At the end of the day, just like no two irrigation systems are the same, no two people - or their experiences - are either.

So, whether you’re on a tractor, in a ute, or behind a trade counter - remember: sometimes the best tool is a chat and an open mind.

Irrigation Australia proudly supports the work of organisations like TIACS and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Australia. We actively promote the importance of having accredited Mental Health First Aiders within our industry, because knowing how to support a mate, a colleague, or a customer when they’re doing it tough is just as important as knowing how to fix a jammed valve. Through awareness, training, and continued conversations, we aim to build a safer, stronger, and more connected irrigation workforce.

8. Upcoming Webinar: Real jobs, real wages – Recruitment support to grow your workforce

Are you looking to grow or diversify your workforce? Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the Real Jobs, Real Wages pilot – a new initiative designed to help employers find and retain talent while building more inclusive workplaces.

This free, 30-minute webinar on Wednesday, 9 July at 1 PM AEST will introduce you to the financial incentives and support services available through the program, which launches on 1 July 2025. Whether you're facing skills shortages, workforce turnover, or want to build a more inclusive team, this pilot could be the key to unlocking new potential in your business.

Register now and take the first step toward growing your team with confidence. For further information, contact the team at rjrw@dewr.gov.au or visit the Real Jobs, Real Wages website.

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.

Back to list