e-News Edition #49 New

Date: 31-Jul-2025


Hot Topics

1. Real skills, real results – Finish the year strong with irrigation training!

2. Government-backed, expert-led training for only $110!

3. It’s official – Our final exhibitor for the 2025 Waterwise Expo has signed up!

4. Last chance to register - First South Australian networking event for 2025!

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

6. Join the team at Frenchams Landscaping Services as an Irrigation Technician!

7. Farewell to a longstanding industry leader: Alan White retires from Antelco

8. Let's Talk About Mental Health: Creating a supportive team environment

9. Murray Darling Basin Authority declares positive progress but calls for a broader strategy beyond water recovery

10. Upcoming webinar: Restoring our Rivers – 450 GL Implementation Plan Update

11. Empowering changemakers in rural and regional Australia

12. Notice - Phishing emails purporting to be from Dave Cameron


1. Real skills, real results – Finish the year strong with irrigation training!

There’s still time to make 2025 count! With plenty of course options still open, now is the perfect opportunity to gain practical skills, build your professional profile, and boost your confidence in the field of irrigation.

From hands-on welding workshops, to nationally recognised qualifications, Irrigation Australia’s flexible training options are designed to suit your schedule and support real-world success, whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career.

Better yet, more and more intakes are now being delivered through our brand-new training platform, Ammonite, and the feedback so far has been fantastic! Learners are loving the platform’s user-friendly interface, streamlined navigation, and the ease of tracking progress throughout their course.

Last chance to start the Certificate III in Irrigation Technology in Brisbane this year!

We're returning to Brisbane for our final Certificate III intake of 2025, and it kicks off in just 3 weeks!

Starting on 25 August, this nationally recognised qualification is your gateway into the irrigation industry. Whether you're just starting out or looking to build practical skills, the Certificate III in Irrigation Technology covers everything you need to know to install, operate, and maintain irrigation systems across a wide range of environments. 

This course is ideal for those with looking to launch a career in a growing, essential industry, with strong job prospects and government support available for eligible students. Secure your spot today by registering here or emailing training@irrigation.org.au.

Irrigation Australia is an approved Queensland Skills Assure Supplier for User Choice Funding. Click here for more information.

Upcoming training

August:

September:







Train your team and save

Upskill your workforce while saving on costs! Discounts are available when enrolling multiple staff members from the same organisation. Contact training@irrigation.org.au to learn more about group bookings.

Explore your funding options

Funding and subsidies are available for the Certificate III in Irrigation Technology (AHC32424) across QLD, NSW, SA, and WA. Several states have recently updated their funding programs, and Irrigation Australia has extended and renewed contracts to support trainees under new pathways like Career Start and Career Boost. Check your eligibility here or reach out to training@irrigation.org.au to learn more.


2. Government-backed, expert-led training for only $110! 

You will have previously read about our successful application for a Queensland Government funded Irrigation Efficiency and Practical Skills Micro-credential.

The course content has been completed and delivered twice now with extremely positive feedback. It takes approximately 8 hours over two 4-hour blocks, facilitated online over Microsoft Teams by our senior trainer, Stuart Alexander. The content sits in our new Learner Management System, Ammonite. It is incredibly user friendly and has been appreciated by all, including plenty of people who describe themselves as “not keen” on computers.

“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.”

We made an application for the grant and developed all the content based on feedback from members. It includes some ambitious targets – we have to get 144 students over 12 deliveries. To date it’s been a little disappointing - we filled the first couple of courses, had a few dropouts last week, and don’t have strong enrolments yet for upcoming courses. Some cancellations are inevitable, but it also means losing an opportunity for someone else who might be interested, so we will be tightening up our payment policies etc. very soon if the trend continues.

It is heavily subsidised, costing just $110 including GST per student and is an amazing opportunity for newer staff to receive quality training without having to leave work! There was a bit of earlier confusion around eligibility - to be clear we can’t offer it to state government departments or agencies, but local councils are eligible.

We need your help to get to those targets! The Micro-credential program is unique to Queensland and our aim is to deliver a great result for this one and then keep applying for new subsidised courses annually. We will put the call out for ideas later in the year, but you are welcome to reach out in the meantime with suggestions for topics which are suitable for this format.

  • For simplicity, click here to go directly to the registration page where you’ll see a table with all of the dates.  
  • Below is the course content in some detail to help you decide who might be best suited for it.
  • Finally, if you are only limited to a particular date and you find the course has reached maximum numbers when you try to book, please email training@irrigation.org.au and we’ll put you on a standby list in case of cancellations.

Course content

1. Irrigation systems and equipment

  • Water sources and usage
  • Irrigation systems
  • Learn irrigation terms
  • Download irrigation terms
  • Irrigation system components
  • Basic irrigation installation
  • Irrigation safety
  • Legislation

2. Design

  • Sprinkler spacing and layout
  • Precipitation rate
  • Sprinkler layout
  • Sprinkler efficiency
  • Evaporation
  • Sprinkler system design
  • Sprinkler layout - pipe sizing

3. Practical task 1

  • The “bucket test” to determine flow rates
  • Measure and record

4. Soils

  • Soil and plant basics
  • Soil structure and texture
  • Effect of dispersible soils under irrigation
  • Evapotranspiration, field capacity, infiltration rate, readily available water, holding capacity

5. Practical task 2

  • Jar test video
  • Mason jar instructions
  • Practical - soil textural jar test

6. Pumping and hydraulics

  • Introduction to pumps
  • Types of pumps - rotodynamic
  • Types of pumps - positive displacement pumps
  • Energy efficiency
  • Flow rate
  • Total static head
  • Total friction head
  • Demand pressure

7. Feedback

Next intake: 19 - 20 August

With demand continuing to grow, we’re offering monthly sessions through to March 2026. Register for our upcoming August intake here or view all upcoming intakes here if this one doesn’t suit you.


3. It’s official – Our final exhibitor for the 2025 Waterwise Expo has signed up!

We’re thrilled to announce that the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo will feature 27 outstanding exhibitors, and with registrations pouring in, we’re on track to beat our delegate attendance record from the 2023 Expo at Optus Stadium!

With just 13 days to go, the excitement is building fast! Join us on Wednesday, 13 August at the picturesque Novotel Vines Resort for a full day of innovation, learning, and industry connection. 

What to expect

The 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo is shaping up to be our biggest and most impactful yet. Plan your day around our exciting and future-focused program, including:

  • 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 27 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, a record delegate numbers expected, and registrations closing soon, now is the time to secure your spot! Check out the full event program and exhibitor list to plan your day.

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. Last chance to register - First South Australian networking event for 2025!

Irrigation Australia is pleased to invite both members and non-members to our first South Australian 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. 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!







6. Join the team at Frenchams Landscaping Services as an Irrigation Technician!

Frenchams Landscaping Services is seeking a motivated and experienced Irrigation Technician to join their dedicated Perth team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who takes pride in their work, enjoys working both independently and as part of a team, and is looking for a long-term career with a reputable and supportive company.

Whether you’re a seasoned technician or have practical experience and want to build on your knowledge, Frenchams is committed to helping the right candidate grow and succeed.

About the role

This is a hands-on position where no two days are the same. Key responsibilities include:

  • Installing, servicing and maintaining irrigation systems
  • Diagnosing and resolving faults to ensure efficient system operation
  • Programming and monitoring reticulation controllers with a focus on sustainable water use
  • Providing friendly, professional service while working in the field
  • Keeping tools, vehicles, and equipment in top shape
  • Supporting the team with general maintenance and accurate reporting

Sound like you? Click here to apply for this position or browse other openings around you on the Irrigation Careers Jobs Board.

Promote your job for free!

Are you an Irrigation Australia member? Did you know you can list your job openings just like this one on the Irrigation Careers Jobs Board for free?

The Jobs Board connects you directly with skilled professionals in the irrigation industry, helping you find the right fit faster. Visit Irrigation Careers to browse opportunities or reach out to info@irrigation.org.au to discuss posting a job ad today.


7. Farewell to a longstanding industry leader: Alan White retires from Antelco

Antelco has formally announced the retirement of Alan White, who has served as the company’s Sales & Marketing Manager for the past 23 years.

Some of you may have had the pleasure of working with Alan over the years and will know the wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and passion he brought to every interaction. His retirement marks the conclusion of a career spanning more than four decades in the irrigation industry, including 21 years with Reed Irrigation, James Hardie Irrigation, and Toro prior to joining Antelco.

Throughout his time at Antelco, Alan has been a tireless advocate for the company and a champion of Australian-made products. He played an instrumental role in expanding Antelco’s presence, particularly across the Australian, Asia-Pacific, UK, and European markets. His leadership and commitment have left a lasting legacy on both the business and the wider industry.

On behalf of Irrigation Australia and the broader irrigation community, we extend our sincere thanks to Alan for his remarkable contribution and wish him a happy and well-earned retirement.


8. Let's Talk About Mental Health: Creating a supportive team environment

In the first part of this series, we looked at how cultural background influences the way people experience and talk about mental health. Then we explored what to say when you’re worried about a mate.

Now let’s take it one step further - knowing what to say is important, but creating a culture where those conversations feel safe and welcome is where the real change happens.

So, what does a supportive team environment look like in the irrigation industry?

It’s not all beanbags and morning meditation (though if that’s your thing, go for it).

A healthy team culture is built on simple, practical things - the stuff that keeps everyone connected, respected, and heard.

1. Lead by example

Team culture doesn’t come from posters in the lunchroom, it comes from what we do every day. If you’re in a leadership or senior role, be real about how you’re doing. Take breaks, show respect, and normalise checking in with others.

When leaders are real, it gives everyone else permission to do the same.

2. Make space for conversations

This doesn’t mean scheduling weekly heart-to-hearts. It means being open. Say g’day in the mornings. Ask how the team’s travelling. Encourage five-minute check-ins over a coffee or toolbox talk.

You don’t need to turn every chat into a deep conversation, but the more you build trust, the more people feel they can speak up when it counts.

3. Call out toxic behaviour (respectfully)

Workplaces that tolerate bullying, exclusion, or “just toughen up” mindsets aren’t safe, and people won’t speak up in them.

Calling things out respectfully helps keep your team accountable. A quiet word like “That’s not how we do things here” can go a long way.

4. Recognise effort, not just outcomes

When people feel valued, they’re more likely to speak up if something’s not right. Celebrate the little wins. Notice when someone goes the extra mile, or when they show up even on the tough days.

It’s not about fluff, it’s about self-confidence and team morale.

5. Know what support looks like

Make sure your team knows where to turn if they’re struggling - whether it’s a supervisor, a Mental Health First Aider, or reaching out to a service like TIACS. Awareness is great, but access is better.

At the end of the day, irrigation systems run best when they’re checked, maintained, and cared for, and people are no different. Occasionally we need to audit our own operating system, and make sure we’re not running on empty, ignoring the warning signs, or overdue for a bit of maintenance ourselves.

Let’s keep building a workplace culture that supports our people, not just our productivity.


9. Murray Darling Basin Authority declares positive progress but calls for a broader strategy beyond water recovery

The Murray Darling Basin Authority’s (MDBA) 2025 Basin Plan Evaluation and Sustainable Rovers Audit, released on 24 July 2025, reveals that the Basin’s health has improved significantly due to environmental water recovery, with most original water recovery targets now met. However, the MDBA strongly emphasises that water alone is “not sufficient” to achieve all environmental goals.

While there are clear benefits to river flows and connectivity, the report highlights concerning gaps in outcomes for native fish populations, pest control, and complementary measures such as floodplain management, fish passage, and habitat restoration. It also acknowledges the socio-economic toll on some communities and the lack of accurate assessments of these impacts at the local level.

The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) welcomed the Evaluation as both a validation of progress and a critical “wake-up call,” urging the government to move beyond the narrow focus on water buybacks and to invest in a broader suite of strategic, non-flow environmental measures. The NIC also calls for a collaborative reset of the Basin Plan to ensure environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

Click here to read the full media release.


10. Upcoming webinar: Restoring our Rivers – 450 GL Implementation Plan Update

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is pleased to announce the release of the July 2025 Implementation Plan Update, the third update since July 2024, providing the latest progress on delivering water for the environment under the Basin Plan.

This update outlines key developments across three major programs:

To support transparency and engagement, DCCEEW will be hosting a webinar on Thursday, 14 August at 11:00 AM (AEST), to share insights, highlight achievements, and discuss the next steps in restoring the health of our rivers.

The webinar will feature a panel of representatives from DCCEEW who will walk through the latest Implementation Plan Update and take part in a live Q&A session. Questions are encouraged to be submitted in advance by emailing water.engagement@dcceew.gov.au. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from the team driving the Basin Plan’s implementation and to have your voice heard in shaping the future of our rivers.

Register for the webinar here.


11. Empowering changemakers in rural and regional Australia

Country Education Foundation of Australia (CEF) is excited to announce the launch of the Tim Fischer Fellowship – a new $50,000 annual opportunity for individuals passionate about creating real impact in rural and regional Australia. Honouring the legacy of The Hon. Tim Fischer AC, the Fellowship supports Australians aged 18 and over to explore bold ideas, drive community-led change, and help build thriving, resilient regional communities. 

Those who know a passionate changemaker, or who are one themselves, are encouraged to explore the Fellowship and submit an application before 17 August 2025.

Click here to find out more and to apply.


12. Notice - Phishing emails purporting to be from Dave Cameron

We have been advised by a number of members of emails coming from Dave Cameron offering a partnership on behalf of CTFD Solutions. It includes a Southport address for Irrigation Australia, and encourages email rather than phone contact for a import opportunity.

These are all scams and a frustrating waste of time for all concerned.  

We’ve discussed with our IT contractor – unfortunately there is little we can do other than advise members and stakeholders that it’s happening and to be vigilant. Thanks to those who’ve drawn them to our attention. If you ever aren't sure of the legitimacy of an email, please contact info@irrigation.org.au. 


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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