e-News Edition #48 New

It’s a big season for training at Irrigation Australia, and demand is high! From July onwards, we’re rolling out a packed schedule of nationally recognised qualifications and practical short courses.

Whether you're kickstarting your career or looking to boost your expertise, now’s the time to act. Some intakes are already nearing capacity, so don’t miss your chance to get ahead.

Last chance to become certified as a Meter Installer & Validator in Brisbane this year!

Our most in-demand course is back in Brisbane for its final intake of the year, and it starts in just 5 days!

Join us from 22 - 24 July for the Meter Installation & Validation course and take the next step toward certification. With only 6 spots remaining, this is your last chance for 2025 in Brisbane - don’t miss out!

Recently completed the virtual component? You can finalise your certification by completing the practical session next week for just $500 incl. GST for Company Members or $600 incl. GST for Individual Members. Non-Member pricing will differ slightly.

Secure your spot today by registering here or emailing training@irrigation.org.au.

Why train with us?

Our 2025/26 training calendar is our most extensive yet, offering opportunities across irrigation, agriculture, landscaping, and urban water management. Each course is developed to build your practical skills, industry confidence, and professional recognition.

As the national peak body for irrigation, we’re committed to supporting you with high-quality training that drives innovation and promotes sustainable water use across Australia!

Click here for all upcoming courses!

July:

Meter Installation & Validation | Brisbane, QLD | 22 - 24 July LAST CHANCE THIS YEAR

August:

Electrofusion & Butt Welding | Perth, WA | 7 - 8 August
Irrigation Efficiency & Practical Skills (Micro-credential) | Virtual Delivery | 19 - 20 August QLD FUNDED - LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE - INCLUDES LOCAL GOVERNMENT STAFF
Certificate III in Irrigation Technology | Brisbane, QLD | Commences 25 August QLD FUNDING AVAILABLE
Certificate III in Irrigation Technology | Perth, WA | Commences 25 August WA FUNDING AVAILABLE
Certified Irrigation Installer | Brisbane, QLD | 26 - 29 August
Certified Irrigation Installer | Perth, WA | 26 - 29 August

September:

Certificate III in Irrigation Technology | Paterson, NSW | Commences 15 September NSW FUNDING AVAILABLE
Certified Irrigation Installer | Paterson, NSW | 16 – 19 September
Irrigation Efficiency & Practical Skills (Micro-credential) | 23 – 24 September QLD FUNDED
Certificate III in Irrigation Technology | Townsville, QLD | Commences 29 September QLD FUNDING AVAILABLE
Certified Irrigation Installer | Townsville, QLD | 30 September - 3 October

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. Note that a number of states have recently revised funding contracts, Irrigation Australia has received an extension to its current contract for Queensland as well as a new offer and is in the process of finalising the new contract. There are a number of new requirements and new terminology for traineeships, e.g. Career Start, Career Boost.

2. Smart, scalable irrigation training for your whole team

Our 12-month unlimited company subscription has already helped teams across Australia upskill faster and more affordably, and if you haven’t signed up yet, now’s the time to get on board.

For just $660 incl. GST, company members get year-round access to our full suite of online irrigation training. It’s the easiest way to support onboarding, grow in-house expertise, and stay ahead in a fast-moving industry.

Here’s what your peers are saying

“Being new to the industry and having done a lot of the online training available from suppliers, I can say that your training modules are very user friendly and more understandable than any of the others I have done or am completing currently. It delves in far enough without going so far into technical depth that the basic learnings are lost or overcomplicated. At this early stage in my career, I’ve come away with more retainable information than anything I’d compare it to.”

What's included?

Introduction to Irrigation - Part A: A 4-hour, self-paced course based on Certificate II content. Ideal for newcomers in landscaping, property management, or retail, it covers the fundamentals of irrigation systems and components in an accessible format.

Introduction to Irrigation - Part B: Landscape: A 6-hour, self-paced course based on Certificate III-level content. Ideal for those in urban or open space environments, it covers advanced topics like commercial systems, filtration, pumps, backflow, design basics, and efficiency.

Introduction to Irrigation - Part B: Agricultural: A 5-hour, self-paced course based on Certificate III-level content and tailored to the agricultural sector. Topics include drip and pivot systems, fertigation, pumps, water meters, soil management, and monitoring technology.

Why teams are choosing the subscription

Unlimited access for your staff for 12 months
Scalable, cost-effective training solution
Supports onboarding and professional development
Learn anytime, from anywhere

Already a member? Secure your training subscription now for just $660 incl. GST.

Not a member yet? 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!

3. Just 4 weeks to go until the 2025 Waterwise Expo - Final registrations close 8 August!

The countdown is on! Western Australia’s premier irrigation event, the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo, is returning on Wednesday, 13 August at the picturesque Novotel Vines Resort, Perth - and you won’t want to miss it.

With only 4 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.

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 and an opportunity to provide direct input into our planning for new courses
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 before Friday, 8 August to be a part of this inspiring industry event!

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

4. Join us for the first South Australia Member Event for 2025!

Irrigation Australia is pleased to invite you to our first South Australia member networking event of 2025 on Tuesday, 12 August, proudly sponsored by SAGE Automation, A Tetra Tech Company, and hosted by the City of Tea Tree Gully.

This engaging morning event is your opportunity to connect with peers, gain practical insights, and see firsthand how innovation is transforming operations in local government.

What’s on the agenda?

Explore SAGE Automation’s SCADAAAS system – a cutting-edge tool designed to streamline operations, improve data visibility, and reduce manual workloads.
Hear from the City of Tea Tree Gully team on how their adoption of SCADA technology has led to smarter infrastructure management and better outcomes for the community.
Enjoy a light breakfast and fresh coffee while networking with professionals from across the irrigation, water, and tech sectors.

Whether you’re interested in automation, data-driven decision-making, or simply looking to expand your industry connections, this event is not to be missed!

Registrations close at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, 6 August, and spaces are very limited – so be sure to secure your spot early.

We look forward to seeing you for a morning of conversation, collaboration, and coffee. Register here!

5. Welcoming our new members for June 2025

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

City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder - WA
Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority - VIC

Join Irrigation Australia today!

As the peak national organisation representing Australia’s irrigation industry, we offer unmatched support and resources to help you thrive. Our members include professionals from across the sector, from manufacturers and retailers to water authorities and regulatory bodies, making this a powerful network for anyone in the field.

Did you know, as a member of Irrigation Australia, you’ll gain access to exclusive networking events, discounted training and certification opportunities, and industry insights designed to support your growth and success. Don’t miss out on member-only benefits such as access to advocacy initiatives, discounted advertisement in our publications, and regional updates to keep you informed and ahead in the industry. Learn more about becoming a member and join here.

6. Upcoming webinar: Beyond the resume – How social media and culture fit are shaping the future of hiring in irrigation

Irrigation Australia, in partnership with Goheadhunt, invites you to an insightful and practical webinar on Wednesday, 20 August at 1:00 pm AEST, designed to help employers adapt to the changing landscape of recruitment in the irrigation industry.

Hiring in the irrigation industry is evolving – and employers can no longer rely solely on technical resumes. This webinar explores how assessing mindset, values, and digital presence can improve hiring outcomes and future-proof your workforce.

What you’ll learn

The hiring shift: Why employers must go beyond technical skills – and what recruitment strategies are working today.
Culture fit first: How to identify shared values, behavioural alignment, and mindset in candidates – before evaluating capabilities.
Harnessing social media: A live case study of Goheadhunt and Irrigation Australia’s targeted recruitment campaigns that attracted younger and more diverse talent pools.
Video interviews & storytelling: Why showcasing personality through digital tools is becoming essential in workforce development.
Practice interviews: How giving candidates a voice and space to show their authentic selves is improving retention and engagement.
Live Q&A: Ask your questions and gain personalised insight from the Goheadhunt team.

Why employers should attend

The upcoming Jobs 2025 report reveals a growing demand for:

Human-centred skills like empathy, collaboration, and adaptability
People-focused roles across practical sectors such as irrigation
Innovative recruitment approaches to engage younger generations and career switchers

If your organisation is finding it difficult to attract or retain talent, especially in a skills-short market, this session will offer actionable insights and tools to transform your hiring process.

Whether you're a business owner, HR professional, or industry leader, this is your opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in recruitment. Register here!

7. Irrigation Australia’s SA Skills grant application moves forward

Irrigation Australia recently lodged an Expression of Interest for Skills SA’s Skill Shortage Solutions grant program and found out in mid-June that it had been approved to move forward into the codesign phase. This does not mean a guarantee of funding, but a consultant from the department has been assigned and is working with us to get a full project design which is likely to be supported provided we can get the right industry buy-in.

As it stands, the project would aim to see some new staff employed in the region as well as training (built around our Certified Irrigation Installer program and other introductory offerings), mentoring and workplace readiness activities. The department is keen on projects which not only lead to employment but also improved pathways to completion of the trade-equivalent Certificate III in Irrigation Technology.

The application has been supported by your SA regional committee, and we greatly appreciate the members who have contributed feedback and insights to help shape the proposal. Your input has been invaluable in strengthening our case and demonstrating industry need.

8. Be seen where it matters: Final call to join the updated Certification Directory

Your certification is more than a title. It represents your skill, credibility, and hard-earned expertise. We’re proud to offer the opportunity to make sure those credentials are seen by the people who need them most!

A few months ago we relaunched the Certification Directory with a fresh new look and powerful search features designed to connect certified professionals like you with clients, employers, and the broader public. The upgraded directory now includes:

Interactive map functionality
Filterable search by certification type, location, and radius
With demand for certified expertise growing across multiple regions, having your name listed helps ensure that essential work is delivered by qualified professionals, and you stay top of mind in your field.

By being listed, you can:

Increase your visibility within the industry
Demonstrate your professional certification
Attract new job or contract opportunities

If you haven’t yet given your consent to be featured in the directory, this is your final reminder to do so. It only takes a moment, simply click here and make sure you’re part of the updated directory!

9. Join the team at Beyond Reticulation as a full-time Reticulation Technician!

Beyond Reticulation is looking for an enthusiastic, reliable, and motivated individual to join their growing team as a Reticulation Technician. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone seeking a rewarding, hands-on career in a supportive team environment. Whether the applicant has years of experience in irrigation or is ready to learn on the job, Beyond Reticulation is committed to developing the right people for long-term success.

Why work with Beyond Reticulation?

Beyond Reticulation is a Perth-based business specialising in waterwise irrigation systems and quality landscaping solutions. With a strong focus on sustainability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, the team takes pride in delivering outstanding results across both residential and commercial properties. Joining Beyond Reticulation means becoming part of a passionate, close-knit team that values collaboration, continuous learning, and a strong work-life balance.

Role responsibilities:

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

Performing irrigation repairs and maintenance across Perth, both North and South of the River
Assisting with landscaping and lawn installations
Installing, repairing, and maintaining a variety of reticulation systems
Diagnosing faults and implementing effective solutions
Communicating with customers and providing a high standard of service

Take the next step in your career and join a company where your skills are valued, your growth is supported, and your work has purpose. Click here to apply via the Irrigation Careers Jobs Board. Applications close 1 August 2025.

10. Registrations are open for the 2025 Western Australian Horticulture Update!

The Western Australian Horticulture Update (WAHU) returns on Wednesday, 22 October at Mandoon Estate, Swan Valley, bringing together growers, researchers, industry leaders, and government stakeholders to shape a more sustainable and resilient horticulture future.

This year’s theme will explore:

Advancing sustainability and food system resilience
Strengthening WA’s market position through innovation and collaboration

This one-day event is designed to spark meaningful conversations and foster powerful collaborations across WA's horticulture sector.

Attendees will gain insights from leading voices in the industry through expert presentations, panel discussions, and real-world case studies. The program will highlight groundbreaking research and celebrate Western Australia’s world-class produce.

From sustainability strategies to economic resilience, WAHU 2025 will examine how we can future-proof our horticultural systems. It’s also a unique chance to connect with peers, providers, and changemakers who are helping shape the future of food and farming in WA.

Tickets are available now - register here to secure your spot!

Exhibitor enquiries: Contact Jennifer Birkhead at jennifer.birkhead@dpird.wa.gov.au or (08) 9777 0120.

11. Checking in: What to say when a mate’s not okay

Last time, we spoke about the importance of understanding cultural differences when it comes to mental health. We’re a diverse Irrigation Industry - and knowing how someone’s background shapes their view of wellbeing is a great first step.

But what about the next step? What do we actually say when we’re worried about a mate?

We’ve all had that moment - something feels off. A colleague’s not their usual self. They’re distracted, withdrawn, maybe snappier than usual. You’re not sure what’s going on, but you know something’s just not quite right.

The big question: Do I say something? Short answer? Yes.

You don’t need to be a mental health expert. Just being a good mate goes a long way. And a check-in doesn’t need to be formal - in fact, it works best when it’s not.

Try something like:

“You’ve seemed a bit flat lately - how’s things going?”

“You alright, mate? If you ever want to chat, I’m around.”

“Let’s take five you look like you’ve got a lot on your plate.”

If they open up, that’s your cue to listen - not fix, just listen. You don’t have to have the perfect response. Try, “That sounds rough,” or “Thanks for sharing that with me mate.” It’s about making space available to chat about stuff, not solving everything.

And if they brush it off with a “Yeah, I’m fine,” but you’re still not sure, don’t give up. Let them know you’re there, and check in again down the track.

It’s also okay to get backup. If you’re worried and not sure what to do next, reach out to a Mental Health First Aider, a supervisor, or a support service like TIACS. You’re not alone in supporting others.

Just like we troubleshoot and maintain irrigation systems to keep water flowing efficiently, we need to check in with our mates to keep the human side of our industry flowing too. A simple chat can be the first step - not to fix someone, but to help them feel seen, safe, and supported.

12. Upcoming webinar: Understanding the future of irrigation in a changing climate

Irrigated agriculture in the Murray–Darling Basin is entering a period of increasing uncertainty as climate change intensifies. With projections indicating a warmer and drier future, the region faces a dual challenge: a decline in water availability and a rise in crop irrigation demand. For growers, irrigation suppliers, and agricultural planners, understanding these dynamics is vital for making long-term decisions about crop selection, water sourcing, and infrastructure investment.

To address these challenges, One Basin CRC is hosting an insightful webinar on Wednesday, 6 August at 1 pm (AEST). This session will spotlight a One Basin CRC-funded research project that models how irrigation needs for key crops may evolve under different climate scenarios. A panel of experts will share their findings and discuss the implications for irrigated farming throughout the Basin.

This is a valuable opportunity for anyone involved in irrigated agriculture to gain forward-looking insights, engage directly with the researchers, and ask questions about how climate impacts may shape the Basin’s future.

Don’t miss this chance to prepare for what’s ahead - register now and be part of the conversation.

13. Jobs and Skills Roadmap for Regional Australia - Phase 1

The Jobs and Skills Regional Roadmap Phase 1 (Roadmap) was published on July 3 and provides an overarching national framework to help shape the future of regional jobs and skills.

Regional communities face different challenges than in cities - from distance and infrastructure to service availability. These challenges extend beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.

Phase 1 aims to create a starting point for fostering local conversations, planning and actions to enable each region of each State and Territory and region to also progress towards shaping the future of regional jobs and skills.

Jobs and Skills Australia consulted widely to develop the report and is now seeking further feedback to shape the next phase.

Next steps include a series of regional roundtables to support the development of tailored regional Roadmaps for different jurisdictions, regions and sectors.

Click here for more information including a link to download the documents.

14. Former cotton grower of the year jailed

John Norman, a once-celebrated Queensland cotton grower, has been sentenced to 9.5 years in prison for orchestrating one of Australia’s largest water frauds, involving $8.7 million in fraudulent claims. Norman, who led Norman Farming at its peak with over 18,000 hectares near the Murray-Darling Basin, exploited the Commonwealth-funded Healthy Headwaters program, a scheme intended to support water efficiency initiatives, by falsifying invoices and pressuring contractors between 2010–2016.

The fraud not only benefited Norman’s business but also severely impacted local contractors and eroded trust in public water programs. His former CFO has also been sentenced. Judge Bernard Porter noted the scale of deception and lasting damage to the rural community.

Read the full article to learn how one of the industry’s most awarded growers brought a national water scheme into disrepute.

15. 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 and individual staff members of 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. Emails from us will only ever come from addresses ending in @irrigation.org.au. If you receive an email that seems suspicious, please forward it to us at info@irrigation.org.au - we’ll be able to confirm its legitimacy and continue monitoring the situation. We also share regular updates in our 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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