The Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association (GVIA) represents in excess of 400 water entitlement holders in the Gwydir Valley.
Our water entitlement holders are some of the most progressive in the world, actively engaged in, and innovating irrigated agriculture. From broadacre crops such as cotton to tree crops such as pecans, oranges and olives, our industry is diverse and productive. We are all acutely aware that reliability of water in the valley is low, and thus strive to Make Every Drop Count for the producer, the community and the environment.
Our vision is for the local irrigation industry, the environment and the Gwydir Valley community to have a secure, vibrant future, with the GVIA recognised as an industry leader.
The Gwydir Valley, centred around the town of Moree in north west NSW is an extremely productive agricultural region. Agriculture employs 20-30% of the population and contributes an estimate 7.8% of NSW’s total agricultural production. Irrigated agriculture is particularly important, contributing significantly to the social and economic wellbeing of the region.
The irrigated olive industry was initiated in the Gwydir Valley over 25 years ago. Olives are a vertically integrated industry
with the nationally recognised Gwydir Grove Olives the largest local producer and processor. In recent years the number of olive
trees has declined as some producers have switched from olives into pecans.
Oranges are a new irrigation industry in the Gwydir Valley, with the majority of the trees planted since 2005. It is currently expanding
with an expected area of 350Ha to be under production by 2020. The citrus industry in the Gwydir Valley is part of the locally owned and vertically
integrated Grove Juice business.
The pecan industry is an important irrigation industry for the Gwydir Valley. Trawalla, owned and operated by Stahmann Farms is the largest
in the region producing approximately 90% of Australia’s pecans. Australia is the fourth largest global producer of pecans. Stahmann Farms operate
the country's only commercial pecan shelling, value-adding and packing plant.
The Gwydir Valley is a diverse broadacre cropping region producing a range of both summer and winter crops. The primary winter crops include; chickpeas,
wheat, barley, and more recently canola. While summer plantings include sorghum, faba beans, mung beans, maize and sunflowers. The majority of the broadacre
cropping area is dryland.
Cotton is the most significant irrigated crop in the Gwydir Valley with an average of 70,000Ha. It is also an important dryland crop with an average of 79,000Ha annually.
The area planted can fluctuate from year to year, being dependant on either available irrigation water and seasonal rainfall.
Lucerne and Hay are niche crops in the Gwydir Valley covering an estimated 4,500Ha. Lucerne is produced primarily on smaller blocks and is irrigated by bore water
entitlements. Hay production includes Lucerne, cereals and pastures.
The turf industry has been a part of the irrigation industry of the Gwydir Valley for almost 20 years, but there are only two producers in the valley. It covers a very small
area of only 20Ha and is irrigated by bore water entitlements. The primary species produced is Buffalo.
The Gwydir Wetlands are a system of terminal delta wetlands, located downstream of the Gwydir River approximately 45kms west of Moree in north west NSW. They are recognised for their
unique vegetation and bird breeding potential. The wetlands are estimated to consist of approximately 6,829Ha of semi-permanent wetland and 77,949Ha of floodplain wetland.
WaterNSW monitor 51 river gauge locations in the Gwydir River and streams(418) using telemetry with data accessible in real time. These sites collect a range of information from flow rate,
discharge volume and river heights and assist WaterNSW in their role of water delivery operators whilst providing an indication of water availability.
All water in the Gwydir is managed by water sharing plans established progressively since 2004. Currently 19% of long term Gwydir river flows and 85% of sustainable yield of the Lower Gwydir
aquifer are available for irrigation. This has been reduced over time following reforms and water recovery for environment.
The are a number of groundwater sources including the Lower Gwydir aquifer used for irrigation and the Great Artesian Basin, including recharge zones. WaterNSW monitor
levels via 26 monitoring sites with data accessible in real time.
Groundwater provides reliable irrigation water, quality drinking water for towns and properties and is one of the region’s major tourism attractions.
Copeton Dam is located on the Gwydir River upstream of Bingara on the north-west slopes of NSW. It is one of the largest inland dams in NSW with a capacity of 1,364,000
megalitres of water. It was initiated in 1966 to provide town water supplies and to boost irrigated agricultural production in the Gwydir Valley.
The DCCEEW will be hosting a webinar on the draft Water Sharing Plan for the Gwydir Unregulated River Water Sources 2025.
This webinar on Tuesday 19th November 2024 from 12 noon will cover the following topics:
the draft water sharing plan
the public exhibition details, and
how to make a submission.
A question-and-answer session will be held at the end of the webinar. Please include your questions when you register
at the link below.
Alternatively email your questions to wspconsultation@dpie.nsw.gov.au.
There will also be a meeting in Bingara on Wednesday 27th November 2024. Register
hereRead More
WaterNSW pricing proposal to double cost of rural water
Rural water users in NSW could see their costs more than double over the next five years if IPART accepts the WaterNSW pricing proposal released today.
NSW Irrigators’ Council CEO Claire Miller said pricing proposal recommends hiking water bills by 21-24% every year for five years, adding up
to $40,000 to a ‘typical’ farmer’s water bill by 2030.
“NSWIC is alarmed by this proposal and urges stakeholders across industries to understand the implications. Many stakeholders are not fully
informed about the proposed prices, leaving them at risk of being unprepared until it is too late,” Ms Miller said.
This month’s focus is on Water Sharing Plans, what they are and why we need them. The presentation will cover how water sharing plans
are remade and outline which inland plans are due to be remade by 1 July, 2025 and how you can comment on the proposed
changes.
Speakers from the Water Group at the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water include:
Peter Hyde, Director Inland Water Planning
Antonia Morrow, Senior Advisor, Water Engagement team
Included is the NSW Irrigators Council September Newsletter. This includes commentary on;
Concerns raised by the Inspector-General for Water Compliance in an audit of DCCEEW, (federal) protocols to prevent insider trading on its
Bridging the Gap (BTG) water buyback.
The release of the latest round of water buybacks under Bridging the Gap, aimed at recovering water to meet Sustainable Diversion Limits (SDLs) in the Condamine-Balonne and NSW Border Rivers.
The National Water Agreement which introducers a range of concerning proposals under the 302 principles that the federal government is trying to rush though before the next election.
The National Ag Rally - and the complete lack of consultation with farmers in areas which are critical to the sustainability of the industry
- our Chair Jim Cush joins the 1-2,000 at the front of parliament house.
The National Farmers Federation (NFF) is holding a farmer rally in Canberra to highlight the key issues impacting on Australian agriculture and its communities -- including the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. If you cannot make the rally NFF have a petition
going.
The MDBA published the 2022-23
Sustainable Diversion Limit Accounts
on 2 August. It shows water use across the Basin was 23 per cent below the 2022-23 SDLs, continuing the pattern of chronic and
persistent water underuse since the 1994 Cap.
In NSW Basin valleys, water use was 16.6 per cent, or 1105 GL, under the state's SDLs for 2022-23. The Gwydir diverted 26%, or
214.5GL less than its 2022-23 SDL.
Several other valleys were also well under, including:
Barwon-Darling diverted 34 per cent, or 155 GL, less than its 2022-23 SDL.
NSW Murray diverted 25 per cent, or 342.6 GL, less than its 2022-23 SDL.
Macquarie-Castlereagh diverted 27 per cent, or 231 GL, less than its 2022-23 SDL
Since accounting began on 1 July 2019, water use across the Basin has consistently remained below the SDLs, accumulating a 5076 GL credit in
unused water
Read More
The Water Engagement Roundup is a live monthly webinar about all ongoing and upcoming engagements and consultation on important water
policy, reforms and programs for New South Wales, and includes a guest presentation topic each month. This month’s focus topic is a deep
dive into some of our work under the Hydrometric Networks and Remote Sensing Program, following with an open question and answer
session.
Speakers from the Water Group at the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water include:
Mustak Shaikh, Principal Remote Sensing/Geospatial, Water Knowledge
Kilian Vos, Senior Remote Sensing Analyst, Water Knowledge
Antonia Morrow, Senior Advisor, Water Engagement team
The most recent NSWIC newsletter provides details of some of the challenges being faced by water entitlement holders across NSW. The
GVIA are working with NSWIC on the issues that will directly impact our region. Most critical at present is the Connectivity Panel
report. Over the next few weeks we will provide you more insight into how or what actions we can progress.
Moderate rainfall and constant river flows were experienced across the Gwydir catchment during 2023–24. Major flooding occurred across the
Gwydir River floodplain during March and April 2023.
Water managers used water for the environment during the 2023–24 water year to support fish communities in rivers and create connections to
the Barwon River, the Mallowa Creek, and low flows into the Gingham Watercourse to fill waterholes by season’s end.
In planning for 2024–25, water managers have applied:
a set of principles and triggers to guide the watering of key water-dependent assets
an adaptive approach to support fish and downstream ecological connectivity.
As of June 2024, the El Niño–Southern Oscillation outlook is neutral. That is, neither La Niña nor El Niño conditions are favoured as
oceanic and atmospheric indicators have returned to neutral levels. International climate models suggest neutral El Niño–Southern
Oscillation conditions will persist through the southern winter, but there are some signs that La Niña conditions could form later in the
2024–25 water year.
Read More
WaterNSW has recently installed a new Hydrometric gauging station on Gurley creek at Tyrone road. This gauge will be able to provide river height data as soon as there is water in Gurley creek. There may be a delay in it's ability to provide accurate flow information.
On 4 July 2024, the Australian Government released the Framework for delivering the 450 GL of additional environmental water.
The Framework sets out how the government will recover 450 GL of water for enhanced environmental outcomes.
There are three programs:
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is hosting a 60 minute an online public webinar to provide an
update at 12:00pm (AEST) on 17 July 2024, including representatives from DCCEEW and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority. More details and
resources can be found here: https://linktr.ee/dcceew_waterRead More
General security (GS) licences and the Environmental Water Allowance (EWA) in the Gwydir regulated river water source have received an allocation of 1% of their entitlement. Since the last assessment, rainfall has continued to elevate inflows above minimums and losses remain
lower than the budgeted volume resulting in the 1% allocation increment. Inflows into Copeton Dam in June were 18.1 gigalitre (GL) and
downstream tributary inflows added about another 3.0 GL to the system. Total essential supply demand was about 1 GL, and general security
usage was approximately 1 GL. There were no EWA orders in June. Water currently available to GS water users totals 469.7 GL, or an average
92% of entitlement. The Environmental Water Allowance (EWA) account balance is about 89 GL or about 199% full.
The program outlines the proposed strategic purchasing framework for the $100mill available to purchase aboriginal water. It will
be delivered under an interim governance arrangement. The Commonwealth will hold entitlements until an enduring governance mechanism is
designed. This governance mechanism will eventually take over the management of water entitlements acquired during the interim period. The Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water will commence purchasing entitlements under an
interim governance structure that includes an Advisory Group and a Directorate composed of aboriginal People. The structure aims to ensure decision-making is culturally and commercially informed
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has published the What We Heard Report from recent consultation
on delivering the 450 GL.
The North West Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan was developed through consultation with a range of stakeholders. This plan
covers 10 established pest species such as deer, pigs and rabbits. The NSW Governments are looking for your input through a
survey or via a submission.
Read the North West Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan and
share your insights and feedback by completing the survey, answering the quick poll and/or uploading a submission by Monday 8
July 2024.
Please find included the May newsletter from NSW Irrigators Council. The newsletter provides updates on the Connectivity Panel Interim
report, the National Water reform, the federal budget and metering.
Expressions of interest open for the Murray–Darling Basin Community Committee
The Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) is seeking expressions of interest from individuals to serve as members of the Basin Community
Committee (BCC). Established under the Water Act 2007, the BCC plays a vital role in advising the MDBA and the Murray–Darling Basin
Ministerial Council on issues relating to water management in one of Australia’s largest river systems. MDBA Chief Executive Andrew
McConville said members of this Committee will provide essential input to governments as full implementation of the Basin Plan progresses
and the Authority prepares for the 2026
Basin Plan Review.
“We need people with diverse views and experiences from right across the Basin to lend their voice on water and environmental management,”
Mr McConville said.
Up to 6 vacancies will be appointed by the Authority for this round. They will commence in April 2025 for up to 3 years, offering a
rewarding opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Basin-scale water management decision-making.
Nominations close 11:30 pm on Sunday 14 July 2024. Information is available from The MDBA Careers
page
The Moree AgTech Breakfast will be on Wednesday 19th June from 7:30 - 9:30am
Supported by UNE SRI and Cicada Innovations, the breakfast will delve into the future of agriculture, showcasing the power of technology
and innovation in transforming Moree's and Australia's agricultural landscape.
Panellists include Oscar Pearse (Director of NSW Farmers Association), Lachlan Elworthy (Agronomist McGregor Gourlay), Jack Rickers
(Hiringa Energy, green hydrogen), Sophie Venz (President of Young Aggies) facilitated by Brooke Sauer (owner & director of
IntellectAg). Following the TED-style talks will be interactive discussions, Q&A and breakfast.
Business NSW are conducting a re-run of the Workplace Law Training for Business Zoom webinar this Friday 17th May at 10am. It is free to
register as a member of Moree Chamber of Commerce.
This is the 'blurb' to intro the webinar: Due to overwhelming popularity, we are excited to announce that we will run the Expert
Industrial Relations Guidance: Workplace Law Training for Business webinar again, in partnership with Australian Business Lawyers &
Advisors. Learn invaluable insights into the recent changes in workplace and industrial relations laws following the passing of the Closing
Loopholes Bills.
The NSW Irrigators Council April 2024 newsletter provides updates on issues important to irrigators across the state including;
The Connectivity Panel interim report
National Water Agreement
Water Market reform and
The Murray Darling Basin Update
The NSW Government have released their Non-urban metering what we hear report. The main issues raised were:
- Availability of DQP's
- Call for greater flexibility and
- Simplification
- Cost of compliance.
The report focuses primarily on the survey responses, but does acknowledge issues with need to ensure data system and equipment standards are "fit for purpose".
For FPH: "Just over half of submissions (n=15) received recommended that the floodplain harvesting measurement policy be reviewed to
ensure that it is practically effective, arguing that it is impractical and not currently fit-for-purpose." More details are available in the report.
NRAR issued the following media release today confirming the NSW Government has two sets of rules for irrigators with water users with
floodplain harvesting licences being treated inconsistently to all other water users - having no ability to nominate individual points of
take and alternative systems, when a primary measurement device is not yet operable. Thus confirming the NSW Government intends to undermine
the integrity of the process of issuing floodplain harvesting licences in the Gwydir Valley.
The Regional Skills Relocation Grant assists regional NSW businesses in identified industries attract skilled and specialised employees
from NSW metropolitan areas, interstate or internationally, to regional NSW. Grant amount: Up to $12,500 Application closes: 15 December 2023
The Regional Skills Relocation Grant aims to:
support economic growth in regional NSW by supporting businesses and organisations to find and attract skilled workers to live and work in
regional NSW
fill regional job vacancies
increase the strength, diversity and size of regional economies.
This program is funded and administered by Department of Regional NSW.
Read More
Despite a concerted effort by NSWIC, NIC and NFF on Thursday 30th November the Controversial Water Amendment Bill. Labour did deals with the greens and cross benchers to pass a bill which has not had any regulatory impact assessment done on it and has removed to critical
socio-economic considerations initially tied to the 450GL enhanced environmental outcomes for the southern connected system.
This means the 5GL over-recovery from the Gwydir can now be attributed to the 450GL.
On the day the various Senate reports on the Water Amendment Bill were released, we thought it might be time to re-release Cold Fish. A
humorous take on the serious issue of Cold Water pollution and the detrimental impacts it can have on native fish populations. It is
disappointing that the Government is not considering complementary measure as a critical element to improving the health of our rivers.
Instead, the Bill is focused on removing social economic considerations, removing the cap on buybacks and on chasing 450GL without regard to
the environmental measures it was intended to achieve.
DCCEEW hosted webinar about the Water Amendment Bill 2023 on 11 October 2023.
The webinar ran for 90 minutes with panel representatives from DCCEEW, MDBA, CEWH, BoM, ACCC and IGWC.
Questions raised during the webinar will be answered in the near future. Additional information from the department is available here
The Water engagement roundup is a live monthly webinar update about ongoing and upcoming engagements and consultation on important water
policy, reforms and programs for NSW. This month we focus on the NSW Groundwater Strategy.
Date: Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Time: 11:00 AM Australian Eastern Standard Time (New South Wales)
The Habitat Action Grants are funded from the Recreational Fishing Trusts which direct revenue generated by the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee
towards onground actions to improve fish habitat and recreational fishing in NSW.
Angling clubs, individuals, community groups, local councils and organisations interested in rehabilitating fish habitats in freshwater and
saltwater areas throughout NSW can apply for grants of up to $40,000.
Habitat rehabilitation projects which may be funded include:
removal or modification of barriers to fish passage
rehabilitation of riparian lands (river banks, wetlands, mangrove forests, saltmarsh)
re-snagging waterways with timber structure
removal of exotic vegetation from waterways and replace with native species
bank stabilisation works.
Grants are open until the 29th of September 2023Read More
Improve the rate and reach of R&D adaption and adoption
Enable successful cotton industry expansion
Respond to biosecurity threats and assist in the event of natural disasters
The Role
With the incumbent moving on, there is now the need for a replacement CottonInfo Program Lead. Reporting to the CRDC GM
Communications and Extension and working closely with the joint venture partners, the role is responsible for leading the extension program
and supporting a team facilitating the adoption of R&D in the Australian cotton industry.
The CottonInfo Program Lead is responsible for shaping, implementing and delivering against the CottonInfo strategic plan in this execution
role, influencing the team delivering key information to market.
This includes delivering on KPI’s around:
The Peter Cullen Water & Environment Trust invites applications from people who are actively involved in water and environmental
science, systems, advocacy, policy or management, to participate in our unique Leadership Program. This transformative Program is designed
to foster courageous leaders who will drive the sustainable and equitable management of Australia’s waterways and natural
environments. The PCT Leadership Program enables participants to develop their leadership capabilities, communication skills and
ability to drive change.
Limited to 16 participants, this remarkable journey significantly changes the clarity, confidence, shared vision and strategic capability
of each participant, and enhances their capacity to take up leadership roles within their organisations and communities.
Applications for the 2024 Leadership Program are now open, and will close on 15 October 2023. The 2024 Program will run
across two sessions: 17-22 March 2024 and 19-24 May 2024. Further group work and meetings will occur online between these two
sessions.
To apply for a position in the Program, please read the information provided in the links,
prepare your application material, and submit via the online application form prior to the closing date. To apply you will need a current
CV, statement of claim addressing the selection criteria, two current referees, and your ‘pitch’ for why you are the right match for this
Program.
Applications are open for the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP), the flagship program of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation
(ARLF). Over 30 diverse leaders from across rural, regional and remote Australia, come together for a series of unique and immersive
experiences to develop their leadership capabilities. The program takes place over 15 months and develops the capacity of individuals as
leaders in ways that are transformational in many, using face-to-face experiential learning supported by online engagement and peer-to-peer
mentoring.The program will commence in June 2024 and finish in September 2025 (four sessions with over 40 contact days). For more
information about the ARLP, visit https://rural-leaders.org.au/programs/australian-rural-leadership-program/ TO APPLY: You need to apply via our online platform -https://apply-rural-leaders.smapply.io/prog/australian_rural_leadership_program/.
You will need to register first.
The Australian Farm Data Code (the Code) was developed and adopted by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) in consultation with industry,
and with support from the Australian Government.
The Code is intended to inform the data management policies of product and service providers who manage data on behalf of farmers. It is
also a yardstick by which farmers can evaluate the data terms and policies of those providers. Benefits to farmers include:
increased awareness and understanding of the ways in which providers are collecting, using, and sharing their farm data;
a framework to compare providers and inform negotiations about data terms and policies; and
improvements to industry-wide data practices over time.
Benefits for service providers include: clear and agreed guidance on data policies and a helpful framework to inform
discussions with farmers about data.
Read More
Funding from the NSW Government through the NWLLS Has enabled the GVIA to manage the Gwydir Valley Strategic Pest Management
Initiative. The aim is to assist landholders monitor and manage feral pigs in the Gwydir Valley. The most effective management of feral pigs
involves a co-ordinated regional approach. As part of the project we are providing Gwydir Valley producers support for feral pig management. To get this support please complete the attached form and forward it with a copy of pig control invoices to Lou
Gall
at the GVIA office.
The Australian Government has announced consultation into ideas and ways to finalise the Murray Darling Basin Plan.
The Gwydir Valley has 5,000 ML of environmental water over the legal requirements for the Basin Plan and the consultation open at the
moment presents an opportunity to highlight this and the inequity that exists for the region who has over-recovered water compared with regions that have progress still to make.
WaterNSW are seeking views from customers and the community regarding water pricing values and outcomes for 2025-2030.
Considering it is water users that must pay for these outcomes and values, it is important that your views are received and
understood by WaterNSW. To make that happen we ask you to take the time to complete the survey.
The GVIA and other Customer Advisory Group members will have the opportunity to have input into this process but it starts with this
survey.
We are delighted that our Project Officer, Lou Gall has been awarded a new opportunity to enhance her governance education as part of the
Women’s Regional Rural & Remote Diversity Scholarship in partnership with @Australian
Institute of Company Directors
and with the support of the @Department
of the Prime Minister and Cabinet’s
Office for Women. Lou starts the program next month. #scholarships #governance.
There are a range of future scholarship opportunities available via the AICD website.
Following recent rainfall, WaterNSW have announced a 10% supplementary event for most sections of the rivers. If water users do not intend to take supplementary water, please contact WaterNSW so that can be reallocated.
See WaterInsights update for details.
NOTE: following this event, Tareelaroi Weir is again out of action to complete the refurbishment works required. This will mean you will not be able to order General Security or High Security allocation downstream of the weir until the works are complete. This is
planned to require around 7 weeks, up until end of May.
NSW Government has extended the Farms for the Future grants which are available in our region.
These grants provide opportunities to upgrade your farm ag technology and connectivity improvements.
You must complete an online training program and farm plan to be eligible. Note also this program can be used for selected government telemetry connectivity and selected secondary devices for floodplain harvesting measurement.
Monday 20th March - Learn about your local river, its cultural heritage and the creatures that call it home.
Join CottonInfo for a FREE, FUN and INFORMATIVE kayak trip at Moree's Tareelaroi Weir. You will hear from aquatic experts, entomologists and ecologists about what animals contribute to natural pest control in your region and what you can do to manage their
habitats.
Presenters: Simone Heimoana (CSIRO entomologist) – Pest Suppressive landscapes, Dr Rhiannon Smith (UNE ecologist) – Valuing biodiversity and how best to revegetate floodplains Dr Susan Fuller (QUT ecologist) – Innovative acoustic monitoring technology David Preston (DPIE) –
Environmental flows and river management, Rodney Price (NSWDPI ecologist) – Fish Screening program, Jay Barnett (OzFish unlimited) – River Repair Bus, Kerrie Saunders (Yinarr-ma) – Cultural Heritage and bushtucker
Sundown Pastoral Company would like to invite you to join them for the 2022 Bayer Grower of the Year Field Day at Keytah, Moree on
21st February 2023
from 10am.
Industry-led panel sessions will explore:
1. Carbon and Greenhouse Gas Emissions.
2. Customer expectations along the value chain.
3. The power of Supply Chain Traceability.
4. Adaptive Agriculture and Innovative Solutions for Growers
5. Practical Applications and Field Innovations
Please see your invitation included. A detailed agenda is available here.
Could you please share this information with your network as this will be a fantastic day where all aspects of the cotton supply chain from
field to fabric will be explored. .
We hope to see you there! Please RSVP for catering purposes.
Tocal College are taking applications for their WHS &
HR Fundamentals course (online).
The course is designed for business owners, managers and supervisors and is delivered as 3 distinct topics (WHS, industrial relations and managing your team) over 16 weeks. It starts Feb 20th, with applications closing Friday (Feb 3rd).
The Australian Government Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program is open. The program will support grants valued up
to $8 million per grant. The program will fund innovative and transformational practices that have the potential to positively influence (socially, economically and/or environmentally) the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of Australian farms from the impacts of drought and climate change.
Projects will test, refine, and demonstrate the effectiveness (or otherwise) of yet to be proven farming practices in a robust scientific
manner. The testing of these practices will underpin and assist to drive widespread adoption through increased evidence and by providing
farmers with the confidence and information they need to try the practices themselves.
Expressions of Interest (EIO) for the Regional Job Creation Fund are open. Attracting new investment to the regions and boosting job security will be the focus of the next round of the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government Regional Job Creation Fund. The Regional Job
Creation Fund will provide grants for regional businesses to expand operations and attract interstate and international businesses to
relocate to regional NSW.
Eligible businesses can apply for grants of between $100,00 and $10 million for projects such as replacing plant equipment, upgrading technology and ensuring businesses that might otherwise have to relocate can remain based in regional areas.
Expressions of Interest for Round Three will close 5pm Monday, 6 March 2023. Successful EOI applicants will be invited to submit
detailed applications from May 2023.
Moree Chamber have forwarded a couple of Flood Impact Surveys. These help inform both local and state governments and may assist in
future aid packages. It is important that these surveys provide information on impacts from businesses across our shire, so we would
appreciate it if you could please complete them - it takes 2 minutes.
The Gwydir is one of the first four regional water strategies that have been finalised by the Department of Planning and Environment. The
plan covers three Priority areas;
1. Water for critical human and environmental needs
2. Sustainable water resources for new and existing users
3. Best use of existing water for the environment
New local intelligence devices available for non-urban water metering reform
Three telemetry-enabled local
intelligence devices
(LIDs) have been listed for use for non-urban metering, including one which can transmit data from multiple meters.
The FlowPRO Multipoint Monitoring System is the first listed LID that supports the transmission of data from multiple meters. It is a
cost-effective solution for water users who can now purchase a single LID for use with up to 4 meters. Read More
NSW Government is requesting landholders impacted by recent flooding to report damages using the Natural Disaster Survey via the link
below.
This information will be used to seek assistance and target the Government's response. It includes and esitimate of crop losses,
infrastructure and repairs.
For isolated members needing emergency assistance for food supplies and medication contact SES 132 500.
The Gwydir River peaked at Gravesend at 11:45pm on Friday 21st October 2022 at a height of 16.20m. as of 10am on Saturday 22nd October 2022 the Gwydir was falling at Gravesend, steady at both Pally and Yarraman. The Mehi was rising in Moree at this time. Please visit the History of Flooding page on our website for more information. Gwydir
Valley Irrigators Association Inc - History Of Flooding (gvia.org.au)
We have also linked to the MPSC website with more information.
For updates on Copeton Dam operations, which is under airspace management and adjusting releasing according to actual and forecast inflows,
you are encouraged to register for the Early Warning Network via WaterNSW the river operators.
WaterNSW operate an Early Warning System for subscribers which provide critical water updates for the state. You can select your
valleys of interest when you register.
This year Mr Bernie George was awarded the prestigious Incitec Pivot Fertilisers Service to Industry Award. Bernie is the Water Services and Compliance Manager at Australian Food & Fibre. Bernie has been delivering excellence in service to the cotton industry
through various high-profile roles for over 30 years. He has worked in the Gwydir having been instramental in the development of the Auscott Midkin aggregation, and has represented various industry organisations including as Chair of the Cotton Australia Board and as a member
of the National Irrigators Council and NSW Irrigators Council. It is wonderful to see Bernie recognised for his committment to the cotton
and irrigation industry.
Keytah was announced as the 2022
Cotton Grower of the Year
at the Australian Cotton Conference. Nick Gillingham, Keytah General Manager along with owners David and Danielle Statham are pictured
receiving the award in August. Sundown Pastoral Company have been actively involved in irrigation efficiency research since 2009, they have
willingly shared their experiences and understanding to help other producers adopt new and innovative technologies. The team are also
farming St Ronans in Qld and have been instrumental in the creation of the Good Earth
Cotton
Company and FibreTrace. This award is well deserved and highlights that the
Gwydir is still at the forefront of the Australian Cotton Industry.
At last NSW DPE recently confirmed that there is a new exemption for metering conditions for "works used solely
to take water under a basic landholder right".
This means, groundwater works in particular those that have an water access licence attached to the work ("the bore") but
you do not use it to irrigate, rather you only use it for stock and domestic purposes are now exempt from metering requirements. This
exemption is welcomed considering the cost implications for individuals with little benefit to the reform outcomes, as there is no water
being used for irrigation anyway.
You may want to inform WaterNSW to tag your work as not active for irrigation, however it is not a requirement.
The below link refers to all the current exemptions available.
NSW DPI Fisheries is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from water users who would like financial and logistic assistance to upgrade their water diversion (pump or gravity-fed channel) with a modern fish-protection screen.
Modern screens keep fish and debris where they belong – in the river and out of infrastructure. They feature a large self-cleaning surface
area that maintains the volume of water extracted, while using a fine mesh that limits the extraction of fish from our rivers.
We encourage all members with surface water offtakes to apply, regardless of whether you are located in the priority area along the
Mehi River or not.
Applications are easy - just your works details and descriptions. Visit the website for more information EOI
- Fish Screens Australia
Water NSW have announced a rescheduling of the regulator works at Tarelaroi Weir until April 2023.
Works to have the regulator back fully operational will need to occur prior to the commencement of this season's delivery which will result in a 1-2 week shut down period for the Mehi/Moomin. The gates must be properly reinstalled to allow full operations.
WaterNSW confirmed today that all the approvals have been implemented to enable floodplain harvesting licences in the Gwydir Regulated
River Water Source and the Gwydir Unregulated Water Sources, where there is a licence with allocation available to take water.
The announcement confirmed that these licences can be used provided the total storage in Menindee Lakes is greater than 195GL. The Menindee Lakes currently have a total of 1,958 GL storage or at 113% capacity, which is 1000 times more water than the drought
limit triggers which restrict floodplain harvesting access. Restrictions are also removed when local in-valley flow targets can be achieved,
these our outlined for each management zone in the WSP.
For a copy of the announcement, visit WaterInsights.
DPE have made an allocation announcement for supplementary entitlements of 0.79 megalitres per unit share brining supplementary entitlements
to 100% availability, this has come in response to the issuing of replacement floodplain harvesting licences in the regulated and
unregulated water sources with water availability of 1 megalitre per unit shares. These licences are now fully enabled.
This for the first time brings all licences into the water management framework and with 100% availability for all forms of take with
general security accounts at their maximum of 150%.
I'll note Copeton Dam remains on spill operations to maintain capacity to 100% and more information is available on our webpage linked below.
In a milestone for water management in the region, the NSW Water and Environment Minister’s jointly amended the Gwydir’s water sharing plans
to include floodplain harvesting, the take of water during floods.
This is the final form of water in the region to be licensed and has taken 20 years of delays and deliberations with licences to begin by 1
September 2022.
Zara Lowien, the Executive Officer of the Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association whose members will be the first in NSW to be licenced for
this form of take said this is not a win for northern irrigators, as it's often portrayed.
"On average water users in the Gwydir are losing 30% of their long-term access to flood water which will have more than a $90 million impact to our economy through less production" she
said.
"Make no mistake, this is an environmental reform like no other.”
The Water Sharing Plan for the Gwydir Regulated River Water Source and the Gwydir Unregulated Water Sources were amended and made
available on Friday, 29 July 2022.
The updates include the floodplain as a source of water and the new account management, access and dealing rules for replacement floodplain harvesting licences which are due to commence no later than 1 September 2022. This is a major milestone for the near completion of the Healthy Floodplains Program in our region.
Update were also made to make these plans consistent with rules for the Basin Plan.
The Mehi River has been flowing quickly through Moree as Copeton Dam spilled to make room for recent inflows. These flows were largely shared between the Carole Ck and the Mehi River. The releases were then used to fulfil orders for water users who are planning to
irrigate wheat and ensure on farm supplies are ready for the upcoming cotton season.
Releases from Copeton peaked at 7,000 ML per day and have reduced to 1,600 ML per day. Currently, there is just under 3,000ML/day
visible under the bridge through town as per the picture.
WaterNSW are actively managing Copeton Dam to 99% capacity unless water orders reduce this volume.
The NSW Government has released a draft Groundwater Strategy which is currently open for consultation. The Strategy is available here
for review.
Public webinars are available on 25th and 28th of July to hear about the strategy and its objective and priorities.
The Gwydir region relies on a number of groundwater sources to maintain production during droughts as well as stock and domestic use around
the catchment. Groundwater also supplies many of our towns and commercial businesses.
The GVIA will be participating in the public and targeted information sessions prior to preparing a submission. Please click the link for
more information or to register for one of the public information webinars.
Carbon is one of the topics getting attention at present. It is important for our members to understand what it means for them. To help
we are hosting the Gwydir Regional Carbon Forum in partnership with UNE, NSW DPI and the CRDC. We are looking to provide information on
Sustainable Soil Management and how this links with a productive cropping system and Carbon.
What is soil Carbon: Understanding, monitoring and measuring soil carbon. What levels could be expected as a baseline? What
do producers need to know before they make any changes? How can they use existing/historic soil tests?
Understanding and measuring emissions: What is involved in making this assessment and how should producers go about collecting the
information.
Data management: What data do producers need, where can it be stored, how can this be easily managed over time.
Tools that can assist producers and agronomist easily manage the Carbon space.
When: 3rd August 2022 Where: Town and Country Club, 5 Frome St, Moree Start: 2:00pm
The NSW Government as enabled the establishment of replacement floodplain harvesting licences and mandatory metering conditions in regulation on 1 July 2022.
These regulations provide the framework to determine, issue and implement floodplain harvesting licencing in NSW.
The regulations provide for a temporary exemption to take rainfall run off collected in irrigation tailwater drains when no other overland
flow is being intercepted - i.e. outside of floods. This enables a consistent approach around NSW to ensuring irrigators can
adopt best management practices and implement required environmental safeguards.
There were minor amendments to these regulations which can be summarised here.
Local valley based water sharing plans must be amended to reflect the local implementation of these replacement licences.
Copeton Dam is at 99% capacity with approximately 35,000 ML of surplus water available for allocation to accounts with airspace. Currently all accounts are at their maximum and do not have airspace.
Copeton Dam is being carefully managed to a safe capacity. This means releases will beginning to occur to make airspace for
upstream inflows.
Spill releases trigger unregulated flow rules below Copeton Dam and can be accessed as supplementary or higher priority licences such as
general security of high security. Currently, WaterNSW have an expression of interest open for supplementary access. Supplementary allocations are currently reduced to 21%.
Local water utilities and High Security Licences received 1 ML per unit share or 100% allocation. These licences are secured with
reserves for 2-years.
General Security Licences are at their full account of 150% and therefore, no allocations were made as users carried over that water. Copeton Dam remains at 99% meaning there is surplus water available for allocation for accounts that have airspace. The next allocation is due before 7 July 2022.
Supplementary Licences received only 0.21 unit share of 21% allocation. This reduction is a direct response to the failure to issue floodplain harvesting licences and update the Water Sharing Plan for the Gwydir Regulated Water Source.
1ML unit share announcement was made for aquifer licences with 100% allocation to local utilities.
This announcement includes the Lower Gwydir Groundwater water source, the Great Artesian Basin water sources and Fractured Rock
water sources across the Valley.
The next draft of the Gwydir Regional Water Strategy is open for consultation this month with submissions due by 29 June 2022. The strategy aims to provide a forward plan for priorities and actions for the region to work towards building resilience within our communities
and industries through variable conditions.
The GVIA attended the public sessions in Inverell and Moree this week where concerns regarding the lack of infrastructure options, the need
for a forward thinking and equitable policy framework and the challenges with water delivery for all water users in extended dry
periods was discussed.
A webinar will be hosted on 20 June 2022 for more information visit the Department website.
Gwydir High Security and General Security water users will end the water year with full accounts, as Copeton Dam remains full at 99% with
accounts again topped up to the full limits.
There remains 34.3GL surplus water in Copeton Dam even after this last announcement which can be allocated to accounts with airspace.
IPART NSW have finalised water prices for the 2022-23 water year, agreeing to inflation only increases. The outcome will see a 5.1%
increase and will be felt by all water users, who are encountering significant input cost rises across their businesses. With water
availability high the cost increase will come at a time with farm production is also at its peak. However users on a one-part tariff
who do not use their allocation or licence this year, will need to absorb the increase as they have less opportunity to offset the
rise through increased production.
We have updated the pricing page with the current information.
This month DPIEW confirmed that all stored regulated accounts are again at their maximum level, with excess water stored in Copeton Dam. This brings the years total allocation to 413% which is an odd way of explaining that accounts have been full and spilling since
December 2021, only those with airspace can receive the available water.
There is excess water available for sharing remaining in Copeton Dam when the dam is higher than 95%, the most recent resource assessment had 1,300ML surplus water available for next months allocation announcement (provided their is account airspace).
This months resource assessment provided a further 8.6% allocation to general security accounts, with the ECA and environmental water
accounts at maximum level. Irrigation water availability is just below the 600GL maximum account limit.
The main summer irrigation season is drawing to a close and deliveries to the Gwydir Wetlands are also slowing down, which should see
releases at Copeton Dam ease off and the majority of this water carried over for future use.
Copeton Dam is holding steady at 93% capacity which means there is plenty of water to enjoy at the Holiday Park. At this level at the end of the irrigation season we anticipate, a few good years of economic activity from the stored water.
NSW DPIEW now regularly track groundwater extractions against the long-tern annual average extraction limits allowed in water sharing plans. This replaces the updates that we used to provide.
To report and status of groundwater regions is available from the Department's website.
Currently, extractions in the Lower Gwydir are well below limits although account water availability is high. The valley is deemed to have a medium risk to breaching limits but we see this as unlikely given the high surface water availability and low extraction to date. To
ensure the register has the most current usage information, please provide usage updates in iWas, where there is no telemetry automating your usage information.
NSW DPIEW are providing an update on groundwater levels in the Gwydir Valley on Tuesday, 15th March 2022 - 9:30- 11:30am. This
meeting is a face to face meeting in Moree at the Services Club.
Groundwater levels have generally fluctuated within acceptable levels of decline and recovery. However, in some localities, with
concentrated areas of pumping, groundwater levels are not able to fully recover before the following irrigation season starts. The
Department have more information on this and have provided a brief report accessed via the below link.
Join us for discussions on the Siphon-less tailwater backup design at Saunders Farming "Thuraggi Overflow" St George on Tuesday
8th March 2022. The field day is the second half of the CSD Cotton Management Field day.
The irrigation session will start at 10am with an update on the Water productivity benchmarking followed by an introduction to the system
from Craig Saunders. We will then have a panel session with Glenn Lyon, Lucas Wuersching, Andrew McKay, Grant Oswald and Malcolm
Gillies to discuss the design, the performance and some of the considerations for implementation.
We will be leaving Moree a 7am on Tuesday. Please contact Lou on 0427521498
Conditions are looking better in the Gwydir Valley for farmers and the environment. Natural river flows in 2020 and early 2021 started the process, with further rainfall, flows and flooding in 2021 and ongoing river flows in 2022. This has helped improved water
availability for farmers but has also encouraged the return of many water birds to the region this year, which is the most significant bird
breeding event since 2012. NSW and Commonwealth agencies have been monitoring the environmental condition of the region and have
provided updates following aerial surveys in December 2021 and January 2022 with five colonies of birds breeding and four of these
containing 1,000 to 2,000 nests each.
The bird breeding event, triggered from natural inflows is being supported by existing water sharing rules as well as water owned by
governments for environmental purposes. For more information on water for the environment visit our page
or the Commonwealth Environmental Water Office updates.
DPIEW have announced the latest water availability with a 40% allocation bringing this years total to 160.4%; general security accounts have a 150% limit and the environmental contingency allowance has 200%. All of these accounts are full, with 36,100 megalitres of
surplus unallocated in Copeton Dam.
The Dam remains steady at 96% with deliveries from some stream flows occurring, dam releases equalled inflows of 215,000
megalitres with around 64,000 megalitres ordered by licence holders during the time.
The Natural Resources Commission is undertaking their audit and review of the Water Sharing Plan for the Gwydir Unregulated Water
Sources 2012, due every 10-years. Previous reviews by the NRC have been controversial as in the 5-year review of the Barwon Darling (here)
resulting in significant changes including, active management, increased commence to pump thresholds and new restrictions following drought
periods called resumption of flow rules.
The key areas as guided by the NRC are:
Environmental outcomes: examples of how the plan rules provide for environmental outcomes.
Social outcomes: examples of how has having ‘a plan’ allowed for improve social outcomes for you, your region and community.
Economic outcomes: examples of the value of a licence, clear rules and a trading market.
GVIA will be preparing a submission which is due on 6 February 2022. You can provide your own submission or to see more see the NRC
Review.
Read More
The NSW Government finally issued an exemption and outlined the process to apply for water users who do not have enough network connectivity (are in a black spot) to install a telemetry unit on their compliant water meter site. This exemption comes after raising this issue
since 2017 and NRAR issuing letter of advice to water users who had not been able to be fully compliant because of this issue.
There are three steps to apply for this exemption, which allow water users or duly qualified persons to identify whether a site is within network coverage and to apply using the standardised form. Please ensure this exemption is added as an update to your file in
the DQP portal so that all agencies have access.
We are continuing to work through the remaining outstanding issues that require an exemption.
WaterNSW have eased Copeton Dam releases and they remain steady since 14 December, with 1,500 megalitres per day being released.
Flood warnings have ceased for the Gwydir Valley in response, with the tail of the released water expected to pass through all of the effluent creeks and streams now that flow rates are within the scope of operations of the river infrastructure.
For information on river heights, visit WaterInsights.
As flood waters continue to move along our river systems now reaching western communities such as Mungindi, Collarenebri and Walgett and
spill operations for major storages continuing, including the recent addition of Menindee Lakes. This flooding is occurring as the NSW
Upper House report into Floodplain Harvesting[1] declared the historical practice is legal and should be measured and
licenced.
“The community rightly expect, is that whenever industry has access to water, it is only to our share, that the limits are policed and that
it is very transparent, even in floods when there is water everywhere” she said.
“We agree and that is why we’ve supported the licencing of Floodplain Harvesting - a long-standing, historical form of take that
happens when rivers and our floodplains are spilling, so that all forms of take are consistently managed in our valley” she said.
“Our position was supported by the Upper House Committee report which highlighted the need for measurement of storages and our rivers to
properly account for water use and licencing to ensure all limits in state and Federal legislation could be achieved and monitored”.
“These are all key elements of the reform which the majority of stakeholders agree, it is what the community expects and should be
implemented state-wide” she said.
The Gwydir Valley is currently experiencing a once in a decade event with Copeton Dam filling and spilling, along with most rivers and
streams flowing naturally.
Zara Lowien, Executive Officer of Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association who represents water users in the valley said whilst it is rare to
see Copeton Dam this full and spilling, this signifies the region is at the start of the boom, of our historical boom and bust cycle here in
the Gwydir Valley.
“Copeton Dam filling and our rivers constantly flowing, as they have for nearly a year now, is exactly what happens here when it finally
does rain” she said.
“These conditions are a far cry from those a few years ago, when environmental water and high security deliveries were the only sources of
water keeping parts of our rivers flowing, while others just didn’t flow at all” she said.
WaterNSW advised releases from Copeton Dam have decreased to 5,000ML/day. Copeton Dam remains steady at 99% capacity, with all
accounts at their maximum allocation.
The water releases take 4-5 days before reaching Pallamallawa.
The Gwydir River at Yarraman remains at a minor flood level, with additional inflows below Gravesend combining with spill releases from
Copeton Dam. Keep an eye on the BOM weather warnings for any flood warning updates.
From 1 December 2021, along with the last stage of new metering requirements for the Valley the NSW Government also kicks of new reporting
needs.
These are for water users that use their work for multiple purposes and they require you to report the split in your licensed water and Basic Landholder Rights use, to ensure water is not deducted off your license. Without reporting, all the water use
measured will be considered licensed. The rules also include self meter reads for those water users who do not have telemetry. The
rules are explained here https://www.industry.nsw.gov.au/water/metering-archive/new-reporting-rules
.
The rules are rather Draconian for water users that do not use water for irrigation but have a licensed attached to the work and therefore have the potential to irrigate, as you need to add up the water used each month and report it as BLR. We would encourage you to
write with your first report, complaining about these requirements as you are not an active irrigator but want to use the work for Basic
Landholder Rights. We did provide a submission at the time which was clearly ignored.
The attached approved form, which also has to be used is provided in the below link.
WaterNSW advised that releases from Copeton Dam were increased to 16,000 megalitres per day and again, to 20,000 megalitres per day to
account for recent rainfall upstream at Bundarra and with the current forecast.
These flows are now meeting with existing inflows and the the flows are larger and more sustained than the stream capacity of any
system, downstream (West) of Moree township being: the Lower Gwydir and Gingham, Mehi, Moomin and the Carole and Gil Gil systems.
Flooding in low lying areas or known chokes in these systems is likely as a result of these flows and that is before any further inflows. Flooding is already occurring along the Lower Gwydir, Gingham and Carole systems from earlier this week and local
inflows.
For a comparison of past floods, their heights and flow rates please visit our webpage History of Flooding, whcih was updated to reflect the
flood already this week.
For the first time since July 2012, Copeton Dam has reached 99% and WaterNSW have had to release water to make airspace for inflows, which
are the tail of the current event at Bundarra on the Gwydir River. This is only the fifth time since construction the dam has reached
this level.
Releases at this stage are 5,000 megalitres/day for the next few days, depending on the weather. WaterNSW will aim to maintain Copeton at
100%, no more or no less. These flows are well within the operational capacity of WaterNSW downstream near Moree.
All accounts associated with Copeton Dam are now full, with some unallocated water.
Releases are considered unregulated events and shared accordingly.
Follow and check in with river heights along the river via the BOM
river network here. WaterNSW
systems (WaterInsights - the preferred platform, WaterLive app and Realtime data) are overloaded and at times have delayed data or
cannot be displayed.
The Gwydir Valley is a distributary river system, which spreads our rivers and creeks across the Gwydir Floodplain which acts as a large
inland delta. Our rivers spill out naturally to these floodplains when they are full and spilling. Not every flood is the same, they
range in magnitude of height and duration and can occur from locally generated rain or from rainfall further upstream of the
catchment.
Recent flood warnings in December 2020 were predicted because of upstream rainfall and inflows. This was a short, sharp and small flow
which has created limited flooding. For example, the height at Pallamallawa was half of that experienced in 2011 and 2012 when the
entire north-west was in flood. This flow also didn't contain a lot of water but its peak flow rate at Pallamallawa of 33,000 ML/day was
still higher than the operating capacity of the regulator and cannot be managed. Rather this water flows naturally, unmanaged by
WaterNSW to the watercourse the lowest point of our inland delta and towards the Gwydir Wetlands.
DPIEW have updated the Metering Guidance Tool with a number of new questions to better guide you through the metering requirements. We recommend everyone step through this process to help them work out whether they need to call a Duly Qualified Person or not about needing a
meter.
Have your work approval and licence conditions on hand - you will need them to complete many of the questions. Remember to watch our videos via Vimeo https://vimeo.com/showcase/8853111 which step through how to find
these numbers and the information your need.
Copeton Dam is currently at 95% capacity with inflows still occurring from recent rainfall above the Dam - the dam storage levels can
be checked via WaterInsights.
Copeton only needs to get to 96% capacity before all licences have full allocations, meaning that at 100% capacity there is unallocated
water that sits until there is account space for it to be allocated.
However, for context, Copeton Dam has only reached 99% capacity for an extended period on four occasions since it was finished full
construction in 1976. Being 1978, in 1984, 1998 and most recently in 2012.
Please note, WaterNSW are not making airspace releases from Copeton Dam at this stage but this is occuring for Keepit Dam in the Namoi
Valley.
With minor flooding in the Gwydir Valley, WaterNSW has issued an update to the 9 November supplementary announcement, today the 12
November 2021, increasing access to 100% of allocation for those interested with updated pumping volumes provided.
Anyone who did not participate in the EOI earlier this week and would now like to participate must call WaterNSW to discuss, do not
just put in a water order you must email riveropsnorth@waternsw.com.au.
Reminder to place water orders via iWas or using the form and emailing water.orders@waternsw.com.au.
The BOM have revised the Flood Warning for the Gwydir Valley down to minor via their updates here.
Whilst the flood level has reduced. The flow rate in the Gwydir River is currently above the safe operating level of the
infrastructure at Tareelaroi Weir - this means that the gates are fully lifted, allowing the river to flow in its natural
direction which temporarily limits the ability for WaterNSW to direct flows down the Mehi River. That is why there has been a drop in
the Mehi River below the regulator late yesterday as the gates were required to be opened, the levels will rise with further water flows
and/or when WaterNSW can close some of the gates on the regulator.
River heights can be viewed via WaterInisghts
and selecting the Gwydir Regulated River, below find your location.
Contact WaterNSW if you have any further questions.
The Bureau of Meteorology have issues a flood warning for moderate to major flooding of the Gwydir and Mehi Rivers, for the weekend.
The rainfall activity is storm based and very difficult to predict but its important to keep watch of updates vis the SES
or the BOM websites.
For an assessment of past floods and their heights including the most recent events in December 2020 and March 2021, visit our webpage
History of Flooding. We will update this page with any new flood predictions if they occur.
In the interests of keep our staff and community safe at the busy and important time, our office in Moree remains temporarily closed given
the current COVID outbreak.
Members can call the office to arrange a teleconference or video conference meeting for any inquiries.
The NSW Government has announced an additional 4.8% increase in general security and environmental contingency accounts following
inflows into Copeton Dam. Copeton Dam is sitting at 86% capacity, and on average general security accounts have 135% in
accounts made up of 78.4% allocation provided this year plus carryover from previous years. General security accounts
have a maximum account limit of 150% this account limit is reached prior to Copeton Dam being at full capacity due to
unallocated water.
WaterNSW indicated during our recent Customer Meeting and River Operations meeting that any customer interested in supplementary water
was to contact the RiverOpsNorth@waternsw.com.au with ongoing unregulated flows downstream and limited
interest, they will not be making announcements until further notice.
Want to find our for yourself what the new NSW Metering Rules mean for you? The NSW Government is holding two virtual metering field
days
to help you understand the rules and what you need to do to be compliant.
You will be able to ask questions to a panel from the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment - Water group, WaterNSW and NRAR
staff. Fee free to ask these questions when registering.
Metering suppliers will also be presenting information on their products and available to answer your questions.
Session
1
Thursday 28 October
Session1: 12:30pm – 3.00pm
Session
2
Friday 29 October
Session1: 12:30pm – 3.00pm
Copeton Dam is a 86% percent capacity and General Security allocations including for the ECA and environmental water holders for this
year equal 73%, including carryover there is on average 126% in accounts. This is a stark contrast to conditions 18-months
ago for our region and others. For all NSW northern valleys storages are on average at 83% of capacity, the central valleys
have 91% and the southern valleys on 94%. There actually isn't a lot of room for more inflows.
The NSW Government has released excess licenses in some water sharing plan areas of NSW under a controlled allocation. These areas
include the fractured rock and GAB groundwater water source areas within our region if interested.
This process sets a minumum price per megalitre and a total volume of unit shares available for each listed water source and/or zone.
The majority of licenses are being released in coastal areas following the water sharing plan processes in those regions.
Understanding the changes to the NSW Metering Rules for non-urban water users can be a challenge and often the information is spread across
a number of Department and industry sources. We have found, the most central point to visit is WaterNSW Metering page https://www.waternsw.com.au/customer-service/water-licensing/metering#stay
It has the three steps you should take and all the links to the forms, the rules and the Departments Metering Guidance tool which we
encourage you to use. But importantly, its WaterNSW who manage the implementation and integration of the new rules on the ground, they
collect information from your Duly Qualified Persons and they administer the licensing database if you determine you need to make
amendments. In most cases it is WaterNSW you will need to speak with about metering as they are the customer liaison group,
plus they have a customer hotline 1300 662 077.
It is this website that features heavily in our video series on metering.
When water availability is higher than requirements for critical needs, the WMA Act 2000 and local water sharing rules provide a framework
to share that additional water between industry and the environment. Allocations are the physical water that maybe provided under
these sharing rules. The volume of allocation made available to an individual is determined by the total volume available to be
shared. This volume is divided by the number of shares that individual is licenced for.
Water is allocated based on these principles and is not allocated to a specific crop. Individuals make the decision on what crop to grow
with the allocation they receive.
There is a range of different irrigated crops grown in the Gwydir Valley, including cotton, horticulture and lucerne. We are home to the
largest pecan farm in the Southern Hemisphere and one of Australia's largest juicing orange orchards. Farmers have even tried hemp,
it is not currently a viable option, but may be in the future.
The NSW Water Minister today announced the NSW Government will exempt up to 500 small water users who take water under a domestic and
stock water access licence from non-urban metering rules, fixing an inconsistency in the NSW Government’s metering policy . The
announcement details are accessed below.
Zara Lowien from the GVIA said while welcomed for some water users, the decision to not extend this exemption to
groundwater sources such as the Lower Gwydir and the NSW Great Artesian Basin, will mean the majority of the region's stock and domestic
groundwater works are still required to be metered in the Gwydir Valley. This means many lifestyle blocks on the outskirts of towns
like Moree and dryland farms still need a water meter by 1 December 2021. This is over-reach by the metering reforms which should
focus on water being actively used for irrigation and as such, the exemptions should be extended to these other water sources.
We are also calling on the NSW Government to prioritise solutions for land owners who hold a water access licenses but are not active irrigators before the deadline of 1 December 2021. Again a large number of lifestyle blocks have small licenses that are inactive for
irrigation but that may be used for stock and domestic or basic landholder rights, who without intervention are required to have a meter by
December 2021.
The NSW Select Committee Inquiry into floodplain harvesting has had an explosive start to public hearings this week with hearings due to
wrap up on Friday, 24th September with the NSW Water Minister.
Zara Lowien, from the Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association said the next few days will be interesting as mainly stakeholders who are vocal
against the licencing proposal and irrigation in the northern valleys, present their cases.
“Since the drought we’ve seen floodplain harvesting which is water taken during a flood when rivers and streams are full and spilling
onto the floodplains, being criticised as the cause of all the problems with water management and the environment during the drought”.
“Everyone agrees current conditions are good – our rivers are flowing freely, with many storages including the Menindee Lakes full,
which is in stark contrast to the recent drought, when our rivers stopped flowing.”
“With many these mistruths blown out of the water and some stakeholders refusing to accept the real facts. Those destined to
undermine this process have fallen back on highly nuanced and often contradictory arguments on what is the long-term legal limit and
disputes on modelling results”.
“The analysis being used to support the claim that NSW is trying to update Cap without due process during this inquiry is not correct, nor
is the claim that Cap is being increased.”
“The analysis used to make the claims, isn’t even comparing apples with apples” said Mrs Lowien.
Food and fibre production in the northern Murray Darling Basin is worth more than $6 billion a year, according to a report by leading
Australian economic analysis company Macroplan. The report, commissioned by the Northern Valley Irrigators groups of which the Gwydir Valley contributed, sets out the value and flow-on benefits of investment in irrigated agriculture in the northern Basin.
“The report shows the economic and social value of irrigated and other agriculture in in the northern Basin,” explained Michael Drum, Executive Officer of Macquarie River Food and Fibre.
“Regional communities dominated by agriculture are circular economies, each sector relies on the other to be successful. Much of the
irrigated product both primary and secondary uses, goes to feeding a highly valuable livestock industry as well the food we eat and the
clothes we wear”.
Here is our third video in a NSW Metering Rules series - this is for active users, who want to work out if they need a meter and what
type of meter, but also who they contact.
This video goes through some examples, for groundwater users and surface water users using the NSW
Government Metering Guidance Tool.
It also then shows you how to find an approved expert to help provide you more specific advice, on what meter you may need and to install a
new one or check the one you have via the Irrigation Australia database
of Certified Meter Installers.
This video is available https://vimeo.com/610165753
Here is our second video in our NSW Metering Rules series - this is designed to help you make the administrative updates to your work
approval.
1. For users who are not active users for irrigation or do not have infrastructure, we cover the steps to mark your site inactive.
2. For users who want to just pump stock and domestic or basic landholder rights water, we explain how you can remove your WAL and change
the purpose of your work or just keep the works as they are but check if you need to install a meter.
3. For users who are active and there are differences between your on-farm infrastructure and the work approval, how to amend these.
You must not delay with undertaking these steps, there are price increases from 1 October 2021 for these applications.
This video is available via vimeo https://vimeo.com/609659644
Within the IPART pricing review details revealed the metering reform policy established by the NSW Government in 2019, is not meeting
its promised objectives.
“We’ve been watching the train-wreck that is the implementation and administration of the NSW metering policy and working on solutions, to
iron out barriers to compliance[1]” said Mrs Lowien.
“Detail in the attachments of the IPART review has highlighted the policy is also failing to meet expected efficiency or cost savings too”
she said.
“IPART has had to blend metering administration charges because it was going to be more expensive for customers to have telemetry ".
“The Government telemetry system is a complete farce, it’s not integrated properly within Government systems, water users cannot connect or
utilise the data easily and now, IPART have also exposed there’s no financial savings or benefits either” she said.
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) NSW handed down their new pricing structure for water charges in NSW to start from 1
October 2021 with no good news for farmers, struggling to recovery from the drought and the reform costs for metering already.
“The details within the determination confirms that Gwydir water users will see significant pricing change increases across the valley for
the next four years.”
“The only water user to see a reduction in overall charges are inland groundwater users, largely due to cost shifting between agencies.”
“High security and unregulated users are the hardest hit with 46% and 66% increase in some charges respectively. General security and
supplementary users are not free from increases, usage charges for them increase 34%[1]” she said.
“There are also significant increases in administration charges through WaterNSW which the GVIA warn anyone with a water approval to be
aware of the increase” said Mrs Lowien.
The recent resource assessment has increased general security allocation to 69.3% for the Gwydir Valley. Copeton Dam is at 82%
capacity and rising.
A stark contrast to this time last year, when Copeton Dam was at 16% capacity.
Total water available for general security irrgators in Copeton is 496,000ML with 213,000ML for held environmental water accounts,
including the ECA. This water is in the bank, so to speak and can be carried over if it is not needed this year. All high
security and other essential supplies are 100% and fully secured for two years.
In a scathing investigative report released today [HERE],
NSW Irrigators’ Council found the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment-Water (DPIE-Water) and WaterNSW had failed to execute
their administrative and technical responsibilities effectively.
“The industry supports this reform, which requires water users to upgrade their meters to a new, world-leading standard,” NSWIC CEO Claire
Miller said.
“But irrigators are fed up with being blamed for non-compliance by deadlines while DPIE-Water and WaterNSW get away with glossing over the
scale and impact of their poor planning.
GVIA helped inform the report and has been advocating to various Department's now for years, to address these barriers.
Executive Officer Zara Lowien said "We've been collating and communicating these issues directly to government for years, trying to work constructively, encourage action and implement the reform".
"But now, water users are receiving NRAR advisory letters becuase the government has failed to provide them an approved device to
install".
"Its not good enough to tell us the market will respond or don't worry, just "evidence" your effort."
"Water users are sick and tired of providing "evidence" on multiple occasions, to multiple NRAR employees that don't even seem to speak to each other or keep this "evidence".
"Water users just actually want to be compliant but the government agencies are letting them down".
"Enough is enough, its time they step up if they want this reform to work" she said.
The NSW metering rules apply to all works and compliance will be assessed against your work approval - not what is in the ground and
whether you use it or not. If you do not actively use these works or do not have any infrastructure installed, you are not required to
have a meter.
Before a work will be tagged as inactive, YOU MUST demonstrate the work is not physically capable of taking water and REGISTER your work as
inactive. This is done through WaterNSW.
Registering your work inactive will ensure you avoid being non-compliant to these rules by the relevant due date; either 1 December 2020 for larger than 500mm sites or 1 December 2021 for all other sites. This applies to both surface and groundwater works.
The form required is vailable here https://www.waternsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/142628/Application-to-amend-approval-for-inactive-or-active-works.pdf
The realities of metering statistics are very different to the story being communicated by NRAR.
Valley based tracking of progress is available via NRAR and is presented on our new page below. Here we also capture the key barriers encountered by different users in these different categories. We thank everyone for their efforts to comply and despite some of the
media coverage, we encourage you to keep up the good work.
There will be significant challenges for Stage 2 - administratively, as well as in terms of resourcing with 7,601 istes in the northern
inland required to be compliant to the new rules by 1 December 2021. Please do not leave contacting a DQP if you are in this next
stage to the last minute.
WaterNSW would like to remind customers that supplementary water is available with unregulated inflows occuring downstream of Copeton
Dam.
These flows are providing water right along our river systems, the first 500ML/day are being delivered to the wetlands but any flows greater than that are being shared 50:50 between the environment and customers. WaterNSW indicated downstream tributary inflows greater than the minimum flow to the wetlands are being diverted away from this area where possible, unless ordered by customers. These rules and this operations, are enabling sharing of flows along our rivers and and beyond with more than 40,000ML flowing past Collarenbri from the Mehi alone this last month.
Copeton Dam has been rising since December 2020 since catchment wide rainfall began to fall with around 600GL of inflows over this time. This
rising trend is being followed right around NSW, with the current state-wide storage capacity at 74% (Copeton Dam just below the
state average at 63%).
However, percentages don't tell the whole story in the context of total water available around the state.
The northern basin has 71% availability equalling, 1,982GL of water, the central west is above the state average at 75% with 2,230GL of
water available and the souther basin also above the state average at 77% full has 8,876GL of water available. We set up a new page on our website to explore this here.
Irrigators argue NRAR's statement was misleading given some works fell into that category due to factors outside their control - such as
back-log in the supply and installation of government-approved meters and telemetry equipment.
Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) announcing they were taking enforcement action after statewide inspections found 45 per cent of
inspected pumps were still not fitted with compliant meters.
GVIA said: "Its hard to be compliant to new rules when in some instances there isn't an approved replacement meter available or if
your still waiting for it to arrive after ordering it. Many of these replacement meter jobs you cannot just buy a meter and stick it
in a pipe, they're custom built and designed and take significant planning and lead time.
We'd like to thank our local service providers for their perseverance with these new rules, your patience in trying to solve these
complex problems bought about by a poorly formed set of rules. We are grateful for all your effort for the industry so far. "
DPIE is currently seeking watercourse landholder input to develop business cases for the Lower Gwydir and Gingham Watercourses, Lower Mehi
River and Ballin Boora Creek.
Over the next few months they will be working with the local community to develop the business case. There will be a series of community
gatherings followed by local workshops to: discuss project objectives and opportunities, bring local knowledge and community needs into the
scoping of potential measures, create strategies for on-ground outcomes.
Landholders in the project area should have received information in the mail however if you are located in the project area and did not
receive a letter please contact us. The community gatherings from next Monday 19 July – 22 Thursday July 2021
The resource assessment for Copeton Dam up to 30 June 2021 was made available with the first allocation for the year being granted to
general security water users and the ECA of 11.1%. This bring the irrigation total water availability for this year, including
carry over to 264,400ML while environmental accounts hold 125,600ML.
Supplementary water announcements are also ongoing with inflows below Copeton Dam being shared 50:50 with the environment after
the first 500ML are provided to the Gwydir Wetlands.
NSW DPIE - Water announced starting allocations for the 2021-22 water year, on 1 July 2021.
All groundwater and surface water users received their 1ML per unit share allocation, OTHER THAN general security users who are likely
to receive a new resource assessment later this month and supplementary water users who received only 0.5ML per unit share. This
is the first time supplementary licences have been reduced below 1ML per unit share, and is in response to the recent disallowance
of the government's proposed regulations to reduce, measure and account for floodplain harvesting in our water sharing plan see our previous media release. General security carry over of 214,000ML from allocations previously will be available for this new year.
The Land's Olivia Calver reported: Gwydir Valley irrigators have hit out at the NSW Parliament after supplementary water users in the
Gwydir and Border Rivers were informed their allocations would be reduced, as an apparent consequence of floodplain harvesting regulations
being disallowed.
NSW Water Minister Melinda Pavey appeared to confirm the supplementary water restriction was a result of the disallowance in a statement
from her office.
"Until floodplain harvesting licences and rules are implemented, any unmanaged growth in water use will have to be offset through reduced
allocations for supplementary water licences, in line with Water Sharing Plan rules," the statement read.
"The FPH policy and regs apply to all water users across NSW."
“You don’t rob Peter, the supplementary licence holder to pay Paul, the floodplain harvester. It’s not a fair and equitable way to
manage water and it’s not good policy”.
This decision is in response to the failure of Minister Pavey to gain NSW parliament support of regulations to enable the licensing of a
separate form of take, floodplain harvesting. Which in May 2021 the Legislative Council blocked regulation aimed at reducing floodplain
harvesting to legal limits and ensuring all water taken from the floodplains was measured and accounted.
GVIA, Executive Officer Zara Lowien said “we made it clear at the time that communities around the Murray Darling would be worse off
without a floodplain harvesting licencing framework. We are now seeing the consequences of that misguided decision” she said.
WaterNSW advises that Tareelaroi Weir on the Gwydir River is now operational.
Tareelaroi Weir was temporarily out of service as a result of the floods in late March.
With the Tareelaroi Weir gates now operational, water in excess of the environmental provisions of the Water Sharing Plan may be diverted to
the Mehi River.
Normal operations will resume, with downstream tributary flows expected to provide minor stock and domestic/riparian flows throughout the
valley.
DPIE Water provided the last resource assessment for the 2020/2021 water year, with a 0.9% general security allocation. This
brings the total allocation for this water year to 58%. Essential supplies are secured for two-years in advance.
The irrigation efficiency and automation research at Keytah this year has seen a large number of new innovations tested at a fild
level. At our field day this year we interviewed many of the research and commercial partners in this project. Over the next few
months we will be releasing these videos and loading them onto the GVIA website as well as the Smarter Irrigation for profit website. Here is one of the latest releases.
Moree Plains Shire Council are asking all rate payers their view on the feasibility of a potential levee around part of the town of Moree
via a survey in the mail this week. Information on the proposal is located on their website and a frequently
asked question
document has been prepared. The proposal is summarised within the FAQ document and this letter.
Dryside Engineering are available for face-to-face one-on-one meetings this week in Moree. We encourage you if you are available to
discuss your thoughts with the engineers.
As there remains a gap in understanding the impacts to the rural landholders downstream of Moree (located on the Gwydir and Mehi systems), I
have arranged for a targeted group session with impacted landholders will be hosted in the GVIA office. This will help inform the
final benefit cost ratio of the proposal and is important an accurate account of impacts is assessed.
The GVIA will not be engaging in debate regarding Mr Justin Field's, MLC decision to select statements from privileged and generic legal
advice, to justify his motion to disallow regulations and ignite a new conspiracy.
This information is not substantially inconsistent with previous advice issued by the Crown Solicitor, NSWIC or that received by individuals. Albeit it does address a broader range of issues including case law precedents for leniency. The regulations that
Mr Field, MLC, led to disallow in the NSW Legislative Council were designed to address the known legal ambiguity with the Water Management
Act once and for all, and provide a mechanism to licence, manage and meter this historical form of take in a consistent manner.
Our position remains unchanged.
Our statement regarding the mess that the disallowance creates for all NSW remains unchanged. It can be found here.
Mr Field should heed his own advice that the tit for tat over legal advice has to end and take productive steps to clean up the mess he
helped create across all NSW.
NSW DPIEW increased general security allocations by 2.3% this month, bringing allocations to 57.1% for this water year. This
allocation with previous carry over, means water users have 210,500ML and environmental water managers have 69,300ML and ECA 36,800ML to
utilise a later date. Essential supplies are secured for two-years in advance.
There have been continual low, small flows along the river systems. Water sharing plan rules and infrastructure
constraints (due to damage from the recent flooding) means these flows cannot be managed and this water is flowing through the lower
sections of the Gwydir and Gingham, with some water being managed down the Carole creek.
GVIA, Executive Officer Zara Lowien who was at parliament house said she’s still dismayed.
"On Thursday, the NSW Legislative Council voted against improving environmental outcomes in our rivers, floodplains and wetlands and
in doing so has lost the faith of industry and our support. Until this mess is sorted out, our legal advice is clear that the status quo
leaves floodplain harvesting as unmanaged, unmeasured and unaccounted for right across NSW."
We just cannot see how this disallowance is a better deal for NSW” she said.
(Photo: NSW Legilstive Council photo via Facebook @nswupperhouse) .
Water users, their communities, and environments right around the Murray-Darling Basin had their calls to the NSW Government for better
management of water, answered as the NSW Government made regulations to enable the management, measurement, and accounting of the final
source of water in NSW which is taken off the floodplains.
Zara Lowien said “These three regulations outline the mechanics to enable the calculation, issuing and enforcement of limits in our local
water plans through mandatory metering of floodplain take[1], which has not existed previously” she said
“They mean NSW Government can now manage all forms of water take, right across NSW consistently” she said.
[1] Refer to Fast Facts about Floodplain Harvesting for a description of this form of water take.
One week after saying two-thirds of water users were not making effort with metering reforms the Natural Access Resource Regulator has
changed their mind.
The Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association stand firm saying the regulator was out of line in their approach to the media, using untested data
from inadequate systems which have been proven wrong with new field data released today. Mrs Zara Lowien from Gwydir Valley Irrigators
Association said “this new information confirms how important on-site information and ensuring boots on the ground are used in compliance
just not desk-top studies.”
The Gwydir Valley Floodplain Management Plan is due for it's five-year review as per the plan requirements. The review is to determine
whether its provisions remain adequate and appropriate for ensuring the effective implementation of the water management principles. The
public submission period provides opportunities for water users, stakeholders and other interested parties to inform the review of these
plans. Comment is specifically being sought on:
Is the floodplain management plan(s) adequate and appropriate for ensuring the effective implementation of the water management
principles?
Are there issues with the plan(s) that were identified since commencement and impact on effectiveness of implementation?
Are there potential amendments to the plan(s) that should be considered?
Submissions are due Tuesday, 18 May 2021.
Read More
Irrigation Australia - the national organisation representing the Australian irrigation industry in all sectors from water users,
manufacturers, retailers, consultants, designers and installers, finds it disappointing that this article conveys an impression that
irrigators are deliberately avoiding their obligations under the new regulations. The facts are quite different and comments of this nature
risk undoing much of the good work and goodwill that irrigators, irrigator groups and duly qualified persons (DQPs) have undertaken to
support the NSW Government objective of accurately measuring water take in NSW
The Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association hit back saying the regulator was out of line in their approach to the media, using untested data
from inadequate systems with suspicious timing. They believe all this does, is confirm that the metering reforms was an overly ambitious
and poorly planned policy from the beginning.
(Photo: Federal Senators from the Senate Select Committee members into the Multijurisdictional Management and Execution of the Murray
Darling Basin Plan during their tour in Moree, this week looking at a fully compliant, transitioned meter)
Copeton Dam is at 40% and steady and as a result, general security allocations have increased by 39.12% resulting in 54.8% allocation for
the year for environmental and production. Most of this water will be carried over to be used at a later time.
Full supplementary allocations were also made available with up to 116,000 ML ordered by irrigators and 5,700 ML by environmental water
holders during these events.
WaterNSW have initiated flood forecasting and reporting following the recent widespread rain and flooding in the Gwydir, Border Rivers,
Macquarie and Culgoa. This replicates and updates their reporting during the First Flush event in 2020. The most
recent update on 6
April revealed between 400-600GL to flow into Menindee Lakes from all the tributaries. However, forecasting is limited due to the nature of
the floodplain flows and natural breakouts along the Barwon River.
Its great to see so many rivers full and spilling.
How the water is managed once it reaches Menindee Lakes will be closely scrutinised given the likely volumes and the many competing
interests there. The NSW Water Minister recently said "NSW will be making decisions on how to manage the inflows into the
Menindee System with the first objective being to improve water supplies in the Lower Darling coimmunities and ensure the top two Lakes are
filled" via The Land ift.tt/3wybHSV.
The peak of the floods in the Gwydir Valley have passed through the township of Moree and are heading west. Many describe this event as
being two floods, the one caused initially from local rainfall of between 100-200mm and then the flood from upstream water sources like the
Horton River into the Gwydir and Mehi systems, that came at least three-days later.
Local rainfall and unregulated water is therefore, now being backed up by the major floodwaters from upstream, which is likely to result in
sustained, major flooding in the lower sections of the Gwydir floodplain.
All the rivers and creeks in the lower floodplain are flowing above capacity as water spills out. There is 100% supplementary access
available. During this time, Copeton Dam has increased from 22% to 39% capacity during this event, with a resource allocation likely
in early April in response.
There is a history of flooding in the Gwydir Valley and the peak height of the flood in Moree and surrounding gauges is provided on our
page 'History of Flooding' and compared with previous large and major floods.
Also, we encourage you to fill out the Natural Disaster Damage Survey https://fal.cn/3ecfO.
The survey is for NSW DPI and Local
Land Services NSW
staff, farmers and agricultural industry representatives can use to record damage to primary production and animals from natural disasters.
Read More
The Bureau of Meteorology have issued the first MAJOR Flood Warning for the Gwydir Valley with a peak today in the afternoon. Local
rainfall and inflows may mean this peak is earlier.
Currently NSW are implementing a compliance and licencing reform for floodplain harvesting take, when our rivers and floodplains are full
and spilling but NSW are designing it without any consideration to social and economic factors in the communities in the northern basin.
Water users accept that legal limits must be recognised, but decisions on how to achieve these limits must consider the socio-economic
impacts on community that’s because past reforms have taught us how important water is to our community. We know every $1 lost at the
farm gate will take a minimum of $2.18 from our economy, it means less money to spend in shops and businesses, less jobs and less families
and less services in our community.
None of us can afford for government to put us in a man-made drought while we are still recovering from this one.
We are asking everyone to get involved to help ensure our voice is heard.
HAVE YOUR SAY and provide a submission to government on these rules via this link, to put our communities back into the picture.
Key in this process is questions 8.1 and 9.1, whereby flexibility to have access to a flood is essential for our community. We
estimate the community impact of this to be conservatively, $1.1B if we cannot enact some change right now.
The NSW Government has released their newest tool to monitor, manage and communicate to water users and the community groundwater
take. The amount of groundwater that can be extracted from a groundwater source is limited. While the amount extracted by all
water users varies each year, on average it cannot exceed the extraction limits. Before July each year, the department assesses if average
extraction over the previous five years has exceeded the long-term average annual extraction limit plus a buffer (called the compliance
trigger).
This tool can help identify risks to valley compliance and given water usage has reduced, the Lower Gwydir groundwater is unlikely to breach any required limits and this is explained
in this report.
The February Copeton Dam assessment was completed with no further allocations provided. All essential supply and delivery accounts are
fully reserved and deliveries have returned to on-demand, as opposed to bulk ordered. The region remains on 15.57% allocation
with 232GL stored in Copeton Dam.
The NSW Government session will cover key information to help you get measurement ready. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions
to a panel from the department's Water division and NRAR.
Trade stalls will be held after the information session so you can meet and connect with metering suppliers, installers and key department
staff from the floodplain harvesting licencing and approvals team.
NSW Department are holding face-to-face consultation on proposed rules for floodplain harvesting in the Gwydir Valley for the regulated and
unregulated water sources, in Moree on Wednesday 24th February and Thursday 25th February. Due to COVID safe restrictions you must
register. Visit the Department website below.
We encourage all members and associated agricultural businesses to attend to hear about this historic reform and how NSW intends to manage
it into the future. Implementing floodplain harvesting will be a significant regulatory shift for our industry and will have
community impacts, ad water users adjust to new rules.
By releasing draft floodplain harvesting rules and updated modeling results for the Gwydir Valley the NSW Government took another small but
important step forward in transitioning this historical form of take into the current regulatory framework, 20-years in the making.
The process, won't be without impact but will have broad benefits as well. Volumetric licensing together with modern measurement and
compliance, is the only way to have greater transparency and accountability for everyone who shares in floods. Its why we have particpated
in it and its time to move forward from estimating such interceptions and start defining and managing them better.
The documenation is extensive and includes the modeling process applied to update models with the best information and better represent
floodplain harvesting, as well as, proposes new rules for Regulated and Unregulated Water Sharing Plans in the region. There are a range of
companion reports on environmental benefits and downstream outcomes and all of the reports are available from the Department's
website.
More information on floodplain havresting in the Gwydir Valley is available on our Floodplain Flow and Licensing page.
There will be an NDrip field day in Wee Waa, on Thursday 28th January from 10:00 to 11:00am. If you are interested in looking at this
gravity powered micro-irrigation system, Please RSVP to peter.birch@elders.com or phone 0428.669.157
GVIA digital technologies and automated Irrigation field day is being held on Wednesday 10th February 2021. Our Covid-19 plan required
participants to register to attend. Buses will be leaving Reynolds Fogarty at 7:30am
please also register for this.
Are you aware of pig damage in your crops or to livestock enterprises, but find it difficult to quantify the extent of the damage, and what
that equates to in dollar terms?
To answer this question, Local Land Services has worked with AgEcon to undertake a study that puts
figures on the real cost of feral pigs on several different enterprises and to compare control options.
Join the LLS online for our first webinar back for 2021. Register here.
When
11 Feb 2021 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Dont Forget the GVIA has funds available to support producers in our region with the control of feral pigs. For more information
contact the office; 02 67521399
WaterNSW have announced supplementary access in the Gwydir Valley which shares unregulated flows 50:50 between the environment and water
users. This is following recent localised rainfall below Copeton Dam between 100-200mm with more inflows expected as ungauged inflows are measured. Current announcement between 5-20% depending on on your location equalling approximately 14,000 megaltires. You must
place an eligible water order.
An operations update on current river flows is available from WaterNSW.
Recent localised rainfall in the Gwydir Valley means the region is fortunate enough to have generated local unregulated inflows below
Copeton Dam. The flow rate and volume means localised flooding will occur and moderate and minor flood warnings have been issues for some
sections of the river.
These natural inflows come at a time when general security users are on just 5% allocation and Copeton Dam is at 13%. Current interested
general security users were receiving their allocation in bulk to reduce losses, this has provided connectivity in most sections of the
river.
Our water sharing plan rules set a clear and transparent process to ensure flows for connectivity and our internationally recognised
wetlands, whilst sharing any surplus water to benefit our community, it’s people and it’s economy.
The BOM also provided flood warnings in the Gwydir Valley, on the Gwydir River at Gravesend a minor warning with moderate downstream of
Pallamallawa and minor warning for the Mehi River. Flows are estimated to be above the safe operating level of river infrastructure
and will be largely unmanageable. They will naturally flow towards the watercourse area to peak at this stage Friday evening.
Keep updated via the BOM flood watch and be safe.
If you become aware that your meter is not working or is faulty, it is your responsibility to register using a s.91i self reporting
process within 24 hours . You have 21 days then to have a Duly Qualified Person inspect your meter. This process is also to be used if you have recently
installed an approved local intelligence device (telemetry unit) as per the NSW non-urban Metering Rules and for some reason it is not
connecting to the Data Acquisition Service or functioning correctly.
Provided you have a fully functioning water meter with data logging capability or are keeping appropriate records according to your licence
conditions of water take, time, volume and purpose, you are not required to lodge a s.91i self report to access water ordered during this upcoming bulk delivery, even if you are awaiting final validation of your meter or install of your telemetry according
to the new NSW non-urban Metering rules.
This delivery presents an opportunity for water users with approved water orders, to undertake flow testing and operational checks required to finalise your validation process, please let your DQP know your delivery schedule.
You must keep records of your effort to be compliant by your required deadline according to NRAR's
Compliance Approach and
the proposed industry implementation schedule.
WaterNSW today advised that with low volumes of water available and continued hot, dry conditions, the single block release for 2020/21
general security deliveries in the Gwydir Valley will be brought forward.
The revised dates for the block release from Copeton Dam are:
Releases will commence on Friday 26 November 2020, and
Releases will cease around 24 December 2020.
Orders must be placed prior to 18 December 2020 via iWAS or calling the helpdesk via 1300 662 077. For users West of Moree place your
orders ASAP to help ensure effecient delivery.
As part of the NSW Government's commitment to regulating and measuring floodplain harvesting, changes to the Water Management (General)
Regulation 2018 to include floodplain harvesting requirements are being proposed.
The proposed changes aim to improve the management of floodplain harvesting across NSW and will:
allow for floodplain harvesting licences to be issued,
After not being able to plant our irrigation efficiency trial last season due to no water, it is great to now have crops in the ground for
this season. The trial will include a look at the new surface drip system from Netafim, a new EnviroNode Farm Automation Controller on the Smart Siphons, the lateral system, the original bankless system and the new fully automated bankless system with Padman Stops auto
winches.
The Darling River in the northern basin contributes on average about 14 per cent of the total flow in the River Murray (the southern basin)
at the point where the Darling enters the Murray.
In reality, most years do not deliver an average contribution from the Darling River. Averages mask extreme fluctuations in Darling flows,
which are driven by the ephemeral and dynamic, boom and bust nature of rainfall in the northern Basin.
This means that major changes to inflows from the northern basin have only minor impacts on total Murray inflows. For example, DPIEW
recently stated in an update to stakeholders that a 10% reduction in inflows from the Lower Darling would result in only a 1.4% reduction in total inflows to the River Murray.
The greatest influence on NSW allocations is the flow from the upper Murray catchments.
Floodplain harvesting is the capture and use of overland flow water flowing across a floodplain during a flood. Farmers everywhere in
NSW (north and south) capture over land flow water as part of their works approval requirements to store rainfall on farm to mitigate
environmental impacts. Farms are specifically designed for this purpose.
Farmers on floodplains have flood protection works designed to exclude overland flow outside of the developed area, to protect their crops,
homes and farm infrastructure from damage.
Overland flows generally occur only when there is major flooding. If there’s no flooding, there’s no floodwater to capture. There was
localised flooding in the Namoi and Lower Gwydir Valleys (Mehi region) in February 2020, this was the first event to occur in both those
regions since 2011 and 2012, back when Menindee Lakes was full and spilling. The Gwydir had moderate flooding in Spring 2016 and Menindee Lakes filled to 92%.
GVIA vice chair Jim Cush, who also farms in the NSW Border Rivers and the Namoi, is relieved the Healthy Floodplains project - established
to oversee the licencing - is nearing its end.
"It's been a long time coming, especially considering it started with the River Management Committee discussions that committed to
licencing during the development of our first water sharing plan in the early 2000s," he said.
"The Department is finally getting its act together."
Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association (GVIA) has welcomed the state government's commitment to moving forward with its management of
overland flow with the release of draft accounting rules and floodplain licensing outcomes for the Border Rivers, the first of the five
valley's.
The GVIA supports that all water take should be measured with the majority of take to be metered through highly accurate devices. All
measurement must be auditable, verifiable and within accuracy requirements. We know active irrigators in our region adopt the most accurate technology commercially available.
In November 2020, the first site in the Gwydir went live on the new NSW Government Data Acquisition Service.
NSW DPIE recently announced no further allocations for the Gwydir Valley. Total water available remains at 37,000 megalitres for
general security irrigation and 44 megalitres for environmental users after 5,000 megalitres of high security allocation was
transferred into their general security account. The essential supplies account is now 4,000 megalitres in deficit, which will need
to be addressed prior to any new allocations.
Water NSW announced that unless conditions improve a single block release for general security allocations will be scheduled for 7 December
and continue for approximately 28 days. General security water will need to be stored on-farm as used as required.
(Photo: irrigated wheat prior to harvest, west Moree, NSW by Lou Gall).
Water NSW have reopened the bulk water delivery planning survey until 30 October 2020. Please take the time to complete this short survey to lodge an expression of interest (EOI) for any future supplementary events that occur this water year and to tell
WaterNSW about your regulated river water requirements for the season ahead including stock and domestic needs.
Do not complete this survey if you have already. They will collate the information to help determine water requirements for the
upcoming season. With less than 37GL of water to deliver for irrigators, orders will be grouped together to limit losses and you will
be required to take water in a block and store water on-farm, if you want to access it. We will also work with environmental water
users to coordinate where possible.
Urgent and due by 30 October 2020.
A reminder to members regarding their responsibilities for keep log books as part of the mandatory conditions for their licences, which can
differ for Regulated, Unregulated and Groundwater users depending on the water source. It is best that water users are familiar with
these conditions, which can be accessed via searching the NSW Water
Register
and selecting the first search option and either searching your WAL or you licence number (90AL). For more information visit our page.
Irrigation Australia has announced the first dates for the NSW subsidised storage meter installation and validation courses. To ensure
you have a compliant storage meter with the NSW Floodplain Harvesting Measurement Policy, your storage meter must be inspected and or new
approved meter, installed by someone that has completed this course.
Copeton Dam is at 16.3% capacity with all essential supplies reserved for two years. General security and environmental allocations
total 5.07% for the year with 38,000 megalitres available to irrigators and 39,000 megalitres available to environmental water users. This
does not include any allocation available as high security which is 13,000 megalitres for irrigators and 5,700 megalitres for environmental
water users.
WaterNSW are intending to operate via one bulk delivery for general security customers - please complete the survey or contact WaterNSW to
ensure your needs are considered.
Industry has developed a 'Metering Implementation Schedule' to capture your farm information in relation to surface water, groundwater and
floodplain harvesting metering and measurement. Its purpose is two-fold and it is a priority for all water users that fall within the first
metering deadline of 1 December 2020 and who have eligible floodplain harvesting ROIs. The document will capture data to inform industry
progress, future timelines and existing measures in place to meter and measure take.
There are no other government systems in place to capture this information and it is important indsutry, government and the community can
collect data to understand the progress made towards NSW new metering rules and the market challenges in meeting them. For this reason, we
request you send the completed form back to your industry group for collation.
Many farms in the Gwydir Valley have gravity components internally, however there are limited numbers of gravity diversions for the
purposes of accessing either regulated or unregulated water. You need to check your Works Approval via WaterNSW
register selecting A particular water licence or approval (including
conditions) if
you know your 90AL number ORA particular property
(in relation to water licences or approvals) to find your 90AL number using your Lot and DP.
Then see what has been listed there - if it says diversion channel you have until 1 December 2021 to ensure your meter meets the new
metering rules. If not, you must meet the requirements for larger than 500mm pumps by this December or for smaller sites, 1 December
2021.
NOTING as per WSPs the metering installation can be located anywhere between the point of extraction and the first inlet/outlet
locations.
The NSW Government released their 20- 40-year draft Gwydir Regional Water Strategy to look at how to improve regional water security, build
resilience and stronger communities and environments. It is about how to best manage the challenges that are facing the Gwydir region. This
strategy looks at historical and a worst case scenario of climatic sequence as part of the assessment of challenges that may face the
region. The strategy provides a long list of proposed projects, both infrastructure, rules-based, research and review and skills
orientated, to be considered by the community. These should be reviewed by the community as a chance to have a say on
future investment in the region.
There is a live webinar on 15 October 2020 and face-to-face meetings in Moree on 22 October 2020.
Not all pipe diameters have AS4747 pattern approved meters available (see
current list). For
example, whilst there is a meter approved to 1800mm it is only manufactured in 200mm diameter increments. We encourage you to seek
transitional arrangements for your existing meter provided it can meet those requirements available here.
Where that is not an option, you can request a S.233 of the Water Management (General) Regulation 2018 from the Minister.
We have developed a template that captures the required site information and the evidence needed from your Certified Meter Installer to
support why a metering solution is not currently available. For example this has been used for a 1500mm pipe where there is not a
pattern approved meter currently on the market.
Where this situation may apply to you, you should act quickly to seek the exemption before the required deadline. Please contact the
office to discuss.
Members click the link to see the metering updates.
The NSW Legislative Council (Upper House) recently supported a disallowance motion to rescind the NSW Government’s Water Management
(General) Amendment (Exemptions for Floodplain Harvesting) Regulation 2020
the “exemption” on water users needing to hold a water licence
to utilise their approved floodplain works as of 3 July 2008 (eligible floodplain harvesting works), to collect overland flow. The
small steps in improving the regulation of FPH made by the exemption decision have been wound back, at a time when all stakeholders want to
move forward and have ensure water take is accountable, measured, transparent and within the allowable limits
So what does it mean? Who does it impact or benefit? Where to from here?
Tonight, the NSW Legislative Council voted to redact the Exemption Regulation on floodplain harvesting following the tabling of the
Inquiry Report here.
This means FPH regulation now reverts back to the NSW Water Act 1912 and NSW Government has less tools to manage its take, including
limiting the use of structures built after 2008. The historical status quo has now been returned.
The decision will divide NSW communities and is a distraction from what the NSW Government should be focusing on, which is the better
regulation of this form of take within the contemporary legislative framework of the NSW Water Management Act 2000.
This decision doesn't impact water users as we clearly outlined in our submission but seeks to further undermine the communities confidence
in water management in NSW through miss-information and petty politics.
Only a fully implemented licencing regime with monitoring and compliance will address those concerns. Most speakers participating in
the debate supported regulation through licencing, due (before tonight) by July 2021 and we welcome their support of its
continued implementation.
A positive move by NRAR to visit the region and talk first hand about the upcoming metering deadline for 1 December 2020. We hope the
Department and Minister follows your lead.
There’s a clear communication gap with these new rules and future FPH rules, impacting many. We support NRAR taking up this gap and
providing improved communication to water users.
NSW DPIE announced a 3.07% allocation this month for General Security users, including the environment following inflows into Copeton Dam
(which was at time at 16%). This brings the total allocation for 2020 to 4.77% and the total volume of water available to General S
ecurity irrigators to 37GL with environmental holdings at 38GL.
Ordering/deliveries will not be on demand and users should complete the WaterNSW survey to indicate your needs to coordinate bulk
delivery.
Remember, every 1% that Copeton Dam rises equates to an estimated 1.89% General Security allocation.
Save the Date: The GVIA will host the Smarter Irrigation for Profit 2 field day on Wednesday the 10th of February
2021.
We will be having the field day at Keytah, where several of our Smarter Irrigation researchers and partners will be talking about new
technology, smart sensing and remote control. Follow the link to the website for more information on Smarter
irrigation for Profit 2
The Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association will host an online Annual General Meeting on 30th September 2020, starting at 10am. The
AGM will be followed by a General Meeting until 12pm. The location will be the GVIA office, 100 Balo Street Moree. Our COVID
Safe Plan restricts the number of attendees and as a result, we will be providing an online option via Microsoft Teams for video
conferencing or dial in. Members must RSVP to either secure a seat in the office or receive their personal conference link. Nominations for the GVIA Committee are being
received, please see the link below to access the nomination form. All financial members as of June 2020 are eligible to nominate.
NSW DPIEW have released a new guide: 'What
water users need to know'
about the NSW non-urban metering reforms. This handy tool outlines the required steps for water users to take to ensure they are
compliant by the required due date, the first of which is 1 December 2020. New telemery devices have also been added to the list of
approved devices, which we are informed can be ordered via your supplier.
Local certified meter installers can be located via the Irrigation Australia
website and searching for a CMI: https://www.irrigationaustralia.com.au/
GVIA providing a submission into the Independent Panel's Assessment of the Northern Basin First Flush saying.
The Northern Basin 2020 First Flush event was unprecedented in uniting stakeholders around the Northern Basin in demanding the NSW
Government do better at managing competing critical needs in times of drought. It became obvious that during the event, in the absence of a
clear and transparent set of rules that set a strong framework to address competing critical needs in the well-defined scope of the public
interest, the event would be seen as unduly influenced by one or another set of stakeholders.
With this in mind, we largely support the recommendations proposed by the panel. However, we do offer a number of suggestions to be
considered in the process of refining the final report included opportunities to improve data gaps and improve the information base for
future discussions. Of importance is an independent and thorough assessment of flow outcomes and alternative scenarios. Without fully
understanding a range of scenarios, we cannot fully objectively review the event and properly inform any future debate about improved
frameworks. Without this information we may very well focus on a range of reforms that may or may not be required.
Here is our first reminder regarding the first deadline for the NSW Non-urban water metering reform for larger than 500mm surface
water pump
installation is quickly arriving, with all works finalised by 1 December 2020.
It is important that everyone assess using the NSW Government's Metering
Tool
whether you are required to have your surface water metering work checked and validated or a replacement meter installed with telemetry by
this date. All water users must assess their obligations and MAKE DUE EFFORT to meet these obligations in the required timeframe.
NSW DPIEW announced a 1.7% allocation to General Security and environmental water holders for the end of July 2020. This brings
total available water to General Security water users to 22,000ML with environmental water holders having 34,000 ML, not including high security water. Copeton Dam is holding 14.7% capacity with essential supplies secured for two-years.
This means now every 1% that Copeton Dam increases by can equate to an estimated 1.89% allocation for General Security and environmental
water holders.
The NSW Government has launched the Floodplain Harvesting Measurement Policy 2020 for the northern Murray–Darling Basin - Wednesday,
19 August 2020, 10:30am - 12:30pm.
The policy applies to landholders in the northern Murray–Darling Basin who will receive a floodplain harvesting water-access license under
the NSW Floodplain Harvesting Policy (2018) in 2021 and will allow water harvested from northern Basin floodplains to be accurately
and reliably measured for the first time.
The NSW Floodplain Harvesting Measurement Policy will be rolled out in stages and water users will be required to comply with the floodplain
harvesting measurement rules by July 2021 or July 2022, depending on their onsite storage capacity.
The NSW Government released the NSW Floodplain Harvesting Measurement Policy 2020. This announcement provides one of the missing pieces to
understand how NSW plan to manage this access under a licencing regime, which is due for implementation by 1 July next year in the Gwydir
Valley. We e have been calling on the policy for some time, so that water users have due time to meet their obligations.
“The policy is an ambitious program but an important step forward in water management that our local industry has been committed for a long
time to achieve.”
Photo: Storage device already installed on an empty storage, waiting for the drought to break.
Follow the link to the recent GRDC Irrigation update with input from Nick Gillingham from Keytah and Lou Gall from GVIA. There was also a
great presentation from Matthew Harrison on WaterCan Profit. Thank you to GRDC and ICAN for the opportunity to participate.
Smarter Irrigation for Profit Phase II is a partnership between the irrigation industry, research organisations and farmer groups,
the objective of which is to improve the profit of over 4,000 cotton, dairy, rice, grains and sugar irrigators. There are 14 sub projects
including: New irrigation technologies such as new sensors, advanced analytics to improve irrigation scheduling and strategies to reduce
water storage evaporation. Cost effective, practical automated irrigation systems and a network of 36 farmer led optimised irrigation sites
such as Keytah here in the Gwydir. We have just launched our new web page for of videos and project information. .
The Feral Pig monitoring program supported by the NSW Government and the NW LLS is drawing to a close. We have conducted a range of
monitoring and management activities including collaring and tagging pigs, trapping and shooting. As we move into our winter cropping
season pig damage will become more evident, especially as many pregnant sows have been observed. The GVIA can provide support to local
landholders who participate in group control activities and would appreciate information on crop
damage
caused by feral pigs. Please contact
us for more
information.
An independent panel has released a draft report on the management of the 2020 northern Murray-Darling Basin first flush event
that restricted access in the Gwydir Valley to unregulated, supplementary and floodplain harvesting in February 2020.
The panel is seeking community feedback on its draft report following an earlier public consultation in May 2020 and are hosting an
online webinar with their draft results on Monday, 27 July at 1pm.
Its encouraged all members should participate.
Limited capacity is available in the GVIA office to attend due to COVID restrictions, please contact the office.
NSW Department has announced the starting allocations for water users for the new water year 2020-2021 with all water users (Stock and
Domestic, Towns, High Security, Supplementary and Unregulated in the surface water systems and Groundwater) receiving 100% except
General Security users. General Security water users have access to ongoing carryover water of 12GL for water users and 31GL for
environmental water holders via the NSW DPIE-W.
The Water Management Act 2000 in Section 4A
describes overland flow as water including floodwater, rainfall runoff and urban stormwater that his flowing over or lying on the ground as a
result of rain or any other kind of precipitation. That means that anyone who has infrastructure developments to capture, manage
and/or store water on their farms and who irrigate with this water, can also be collecting overland flow, not just those in the five
northern valleys who are "floodplain harvesters". This definition is regardless of any other requirements of other NSW
regulations (such as the NSW EPA Act) and various licence conditions, to capture and retain water on farm to avoid environmental
impacts.
Unfortunately in NSW there are a few remaining long-term legacy issues, the fact water management is coordinated through two legislative
frameworks is one of them. That means that some approvals, rules and extraction is managed according to rules within the original NSW
Water Act 1912 but the majority are within the contemporary regime of the NSW Water Management Act 2000.
Government inaction has meant that the majority of irrigation infrastructure and flood work approvals are yet to be converted into the new
legislative framework. This has been an on-going issue for more than 20-years. But this is important when considering the
"legal status" of floodplain harvesting in NSW, which is one of the last forms of extraction to be converted from the descriptive
allowances in the Water Act 1912 into volumetric licences in the Water Management Act 2000, which is due for completed next year. Just
because its not managed or represented within the Water Management Act, doesn't make it illegal, if its allowed under the Water Act
1912.
This is why its important the Healthy Floodplains Project is completed on time next year, to bring this historical form of extraction into
the same licensing framework as others and enable government to better regulate, measure and report on it. Its proper implementation
will cap extraction within historic limits, ensure the sustainability of the industry but also leaving more water on the floodplain.
The department, together with WaterNSW, will be holding public information sessions via webinar during May and June 2020 with the session
for the Norther region, including the Gwydir on 28 May 2020. See the link below to register for this presentation.
The sessions will provide
an update on the water availability outlook, climatic trends, system flows and storages levels. Lessons learnt from the current drought and
the impacts of drought on groundwater will be discussed, as well as ongoing support available for communities.
Water availability including prospects for allocations for the new water
year starting July 1 2020 will also be discussed.
The NSW Government has appointed an independent panel to assess what improvements can be made to better manage the use, communication and
application of temporary restrictions like those used in February 2020. These restrictions were used to manage the first major
water flows following rainfall across the northern Murray-Darling after record drought conditions.
The panel is now seeking feedback from the community on their views and experiences in relation to the first flush event and suggestions on
the future management of these events. They invite you to make a submission or give your feedback by completing the survey available on the
review website.
The GVIA will be providing our own feedback via this survey, and we encourage members and all stakeholders affected by these events, to
directly provide their own individual experiences and feedback to the panel.
DPIE-W announced the Gwydir Valley received it’s first allocation since February 2018 with 1.9% allocation (or 10.56GL) issued to water
users including the environment. Inflows into Copeton Dam since February this year are greater than 60% of the total inflows into the dam
over the last 2.5 years.
The allocation announcement together with a full reserve essential supplies reserve (for two years) in Copeton Dam and recent supplementary
availability below the dam, signals for the first-time in years that the whole catchment has a good soil moisture and any rain should
generate flows into our river systems. Whilst the drought hasn’t broken, it’s a good start for water users and the region.
In a world first, the government is using LiDAR to construct images to estimate the volume of floodplain harvesting captured in private
water storages in the Northern Basin valleys as reported in The Land last week. The article said "There is a combined capacity of
1450 gigalitres within 1386 private on-farm storages across the Northern Basin, which are filled infrequently and only during wet
periods." and Minister for Water, Ms Pavey said "...the department is able to determine both the capacity and volume held in
private on-farm storages with much greater accuracy....Using this technology, we were able to assess the volume of floodplain harvesting was
around 20GL during this time [the temporary restriction in February 2020]. Now, over 380GL has made it to the Menindee Lakes, reconnecting
the Lower Darling to the Murray River for the first time since 2016," she said.
We think it's important that the NSW Government release results like this, to build confidence and show their significant investment in FPH
monitoring and compliance. As we know, floodplain harvesting opportunity arises in a flood, when there is plenty of water available for
everyone. These results demonstrates this fact, with take only 5% of the total flow measured at Menindee Lakes, more than 1000km of
river channel and floodplain downstream, with no impact to the achievement of the targets for critical needs required at the time.
As the current season is drawing to a close and winter planting is getting underway, the Smarter Irrigation for Profit researchers are
looking to see what you want to know more about with regards irrigation. We have developed a 4 question survey and would love your
input.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SIP2_Webinar
With recent catchment rainfall, water availability has improved across the catchment with inflows into Copeton Dam as well as approximately
10% Supplementary allocation available from inflows below the Dam. The region has moved down to Stage 2 for Drought Management, due
to the forecast of 2-years supply of all essential water requirements including towns. A small deficit for General Security delivery
remains and must be addressed prior to any new allocations.
NSW Government has released the draft Terms of Reference into their Independent Assessment into the First Flush in the northern basin - the
management and communication of temporary restrictions implemented in February 2020 to achieve flow outcomes within the valley and
downstream in the Barwon-Darling. There is an opportunity to provide input into the review via a multi-step submission process, starting
with the Terms of Reference. The GVIA will be working on suggestions to improve the terms including ensuring the panel has relevant
technical input into the effectiveness of the event by considering northern basin hydrology and flows.
With the response to Covid-19, the GVIA office is now closed and staff are rotating being in the office. Appointment can be made if
required. Our work continues and both Zara and Lou are still available by phone; 02 67521399 or email. Please dont hesitate to contact
us. Stay safe and well. Thank You
The GVIA represents in excess of 450 water entitlement holders in the Gwydir Valley. The organisation works to represent the interests of
our members and secure a viable future for our region through ensuring water rights are protected and water use by members, the environment
and our river operators is efficient and sustainable. We work together to build a better future for our region and make every drop
count.
Our role provides a voice for our industry and region to decision makers, our local community and the broader public. This can involve
writing and commenting on policy proposals, inquiries and participating in meetings with key stakeholders including Ministers and Department
staff. We take seriously our role in improving grower research and innovation in our industry.
The Gwydir CGA would like to invite you to join us for the 2020 Gwydir Field Day.
The field day will provide an opportunity to look at some new and innovative technologies including the CSD variety trials, XtendFlex , a
machine vision app for insect management and the canopy temperature sensors. There will be an update from the CSIRO breeding team and the
NSW DPI water productivity benchmarking project.
This statement is provided as a response to concerns raised due to misinformation regarding northern embargoes and floodplain harvesting.
Our organisation supports the need for a first flush to provide flow for critical human needs. We also are on record requesting greater
transparency around the decision to utilise, amend and remove temporary pumping restrictions in NSW. This process must be undertaken with a
clear methodology, based on fact and science and communicated communities both up and downstream.
On the back of last week’s bureaucratic bungling, Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association are warning that the lack of responsiveness by
government and transparent processes are sacrificing our farmers and wasting precious water.
Once again this week our farmers have been crucified on the back of bureaucratic bungling. On late Friday afternoon, the Department of
Planning, Industry and Environment's Water division applied an embargo for the first time on overland flow via a text message. Whilst
the sentiment of this decision to protect flows for critical human needs is supported by northern communities, it is the level of disregard
for how a natural system behaves during extreme weather events such as a flood and the lack of consultation about rule changes that has
farmers fuming.
The Gwydir Field Day has had to be postponed due to wet weather. Neither farms are accessible due to heavy rainfall.
We will notify you as soon as we are able to reschedule the event.
Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association together with Namoi Water have provided the following statement regarding the current management of
river flows and localised flooding in parts of our valleys. This statement will be progressively updated as more information becomes
available.
There is no question that we and our communities support the importance of connectivity flows in drought. We fully support flows to provide
critical human needs.
NSW DPIEW informed users via the EWN that they have lifted temporary water restrictions on unregulated water users in the Mehi subcatchment
(until 17 February 2020), this adds to the lifting of restrictions in the Millie and Thalaba sub-catchments in the south-western section of
Gwydir Valley. Restrictions to floodplain harvesting activities in the Mehi and Thalaba sub catchments have also been lifted. These
expire on 12th February 2020.
Reasons for the decision are stated as being: over the last 2 days there has been in excess of 150mm of rain in lower Gwydir. Flows in the
Mehi River are at 4000ML/day and 4,500ML/day in Moomin. Flows in the Barwon Darling are at 9000ML day at Collarenabri and 5000ML day at
Tara. Flows from the Mehi are backing up due to high flows in the Barwon Darling.
Most flow targets have been met, and is now expected that targets at Brewarrina, and possibly Bourke, will also be met.
The main intent of lifting this order to minimise flood impacts, and allow farmers to move water around their property.
Water NSW have expanded their Early Warning Network to manage notifications for temporary restrictions to pumping conditions (in addition
to dam safety and flood notifications). It is recommended all water users subscribe to this process to be sent an email and SMS on any
announcements from Water NSW regarding access arrangements.
DPIEW have lifted the restrictions to unregulated licence access in the Thalaba and Millie Creek Subcatchments as of 9:53pm tonight. This
is because of high rainfall in the lower part of the Gwydir valley has resulted in the public interest test being met for these water
sources, and unregulated take from the above water sources will not materially impact on downstream flows in the Barwon Darling.
To receive updates on temporary restrictions, you must register for the Early Warning Network here.
Contact the office for more information.
The NSW Government has enacted a temporary restriction on floodplain harvesting across the northern basin to preserve any flows in the
northern river system for towns, stock and domestic supply and the environment. This temporary restriction order will apply to the take of
water for the purpose of floodplain harvesting, except in the case where the take of water is rainfall runoff from irrigated areas with
tailwater return drains or water cannot be reasonably prevented i.e. it is passive take. You will need to refer to the exemption
details via the Department's website. We will forward any further information when it becomes available.
The Gwydir Cotton Growers Association would like to invite you to join us for the 2020 Gwydir Field Day which will be showcasing new and
innovative technologies including the CSD variety trials, XtendFlex , a machine vision app for insect management and the canopy temperature
sensor. There will be discussion on the impact of temperature and climate on cotton production as well as an update from the CSIRO breeding
team.
RSVP to Secretary@gwydircotton.com.au or call Lou on 0427 521 498 or 02 6752 1399
Following months (and months) of requests from groups like ourselves, our local council and chamber of commerce for support for our farm
related businesses, the Australian Government through the Regional Investment Corporation has announced and opened the AgBiz Drought loans
which aims to support regional Australians to take control of their business through the drought. There are conditions and
eligibility requirements for the loan. For more information visit the RIC website. Thank you to our local members who advocated
for broadening drought support from the farm gate.
Please be aware DPIE have issues a Section 324 water restriction under the NSW Water Management Act in anticipation of potential natural
inflows into the regions water systems this is for unregulated, general security and supplementary licences. Details are to be
provided on the DPIE website. This order does not include current water orders in the system and high security deliveries. Exemptions
to test metering equipment are expected to exist and procedures must be followed as per the gazette.
The GVIA were excited to help coordinate and host two year 12 students in Moree as part of the University of New England's Growing Regional
and Agricultural Students in Science (UNE GRASS) program. They have been getting their hands dirty these school holidays, learning about all
facets of the cotton industry directly from those involved in all areas. Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School student Harry Page from
Goondiwindi and Calrossy Anglican School student Matt Tomlinson from Bellata have spent the past week in the Gwydir Valley, gaining a broad
exposure to the possible career opportunities in the Australian cotton industry.
With the anticipation of rain forecast by the BOM, its important that water users are aware of the conditions around water access in the
event we receive river system inflows. There are currently deliveries within the system that would need to be satisfied, as with the
provision of stock and domestic and basic landholder right flows to systems that have not received any substantial flows to-date. To
ensure you are up to date, please check the Department
of Industry website
for any temporary restrictions.
We note that previous restrictions have made allowances to test metering equipment for a limited volume of no more than 1ML provided the
duly qualified person, undertaking the testing informs NRAR. This information will be available on the Government Gazette if a
restriction is put in place.
Current water availability has been updated for regulated and groundwater usage and allocations this year, which groundwater usage
remaining below limits and no new allocations being made. The only deliveries from Copeton Dam have been for critical water needs for high
security users (both irrigators and the environment) and general security carried over for environmental purposes, which is being dam wall
debited. Copeton Dam received minor inflows and remains steady to increasing, despite releases being made. These releases are
visible in the Mehi and Lower Gwydir systems. The GVIA have also updated our historical availability section of the website, to
include an analysis of supplementary access as well.
Irrigators in the Gwydir Valley have had zero allocation of general security or supplementary water this year. A small limited announcement
was made last week. Any irrigated annual crops being grown this season are grown on groundwater. No general security water was
permitted to be delivered this year. Permanent plantings are supported by high security water which was delivered via bulk releases
and groundwater.
WaterNSW recently provided an update on river operations outlook and water availability for the Gwydir Valley as part of the River
Operations Stakeholder Consultative Committee and the Customer Advisory Group meetings that coincided with the regional drought updates. A
snap shot of these updates are provided in the link below, or you can visit the WaterNSW website for regional
drought
updates and operations updates.
The NSW and Commonwealth Governments are undertaking environmental water delivery across the Gwydir, Mehi and Carole systems to replenish
large river pools which act as fish refuge throughout the summer of 2019-20. Initial environmental water releases are being used to
restart the rivers after an extended period of no flow. After river startup, flows will be in combination with WaterNSW releases for
stock and domestic flows down the systems. Visit this page to see the updates.
The Gwydir is characterised as having low water reliability, in the last 10-years irrigators have accessed only 19% of river inflows for
General Security use and 8% for supplementary. The majority of water held as general security water with a reliability of 36%.
Supplementary water entitlement is somewhat more reliable with 55% but accounts for less than a quarter of the total volume. There is
around 40,000ML available as high security or groundwater entitlement which is considered highly reliable.
General Security water is stored in Copeton dam, derived from rainfall and river flow above the dam.
Supplementary water is unregulated flows downstream of the dam, it is only announced after environmental flows to the wetlands. After that
all remaining flows are shared equally between the environment and licence holders (including environmental licence holders)
The NSW Government has updated their Drought Information page with new information on how they are managing water and critical water
shortages right around the state. It reads "The areas experiencing the worst effects of this drought are the northern
Murray-Darling Basin and the Lower Darling. Inflows to each of the major northern inland NSW regulated rivers are now the lowest on record.
Northern NSW has experienced many two-year periods of sustained low inflows. We’re now entering an unprecedented third year." For more
facts behind the drought and river management options, visit their page and look through the critical valleys and their management or the
other information sources.
The independent expert panel appointed to study the social and economic conditions affecting communities in the Murray-Darling Basin will be
in Moree on Friday 18th October 2019 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm at the Town and Country Club, 5 Frome St.
The panel wants to hear from communities to assess how lived experience aligns with analysis and research, understand key trends, drivers
and impacts from water reform, and learn of community-led ideas and solutions.
Please register your interest in attending by email to: Independentpanel@mdba.gov.au stating that you will be attending the Moree session.
Thank you.
The NSW and Commonwealth Governments have significant natural assets in our region - NSW is responsible for land and water and the
Commonwealth are the largest single water entitlement owner in the valley. While a farmer is financially accountable for their
decisions and socially accountable as custodians to manage their land - not to mention the rules and regulations they must abide by. Who
are our government's accountable to when they make decisions on how they manage their assets? It's the community!
Zara Lowien said "Its important that the community are aware of what is done with the water that is delivered to these areas and how
those decisions are made"...
Today, the NSW Government announced that the it will adjust the first three start dates for the new metering rules, meaning the first
roll-out date for larger than 500mm pipe diameters is now 1 December 2020. This announcement, while welcomed and well-overdue,
unfortunately fails to acknowledge that the NSW Government has failed to outline to water users what data logger or telemetry devices are
approved for installation as part of the new regulations. This decision is still pending.
Today, the GVIA launched two videos calling on the NSW Government to finalise their decision regarding changes to the NSW Non-urban Water
Metering Regulations that were consulted on back in August 2019. Executive Officer, Zara Lowien said "it's now less than
two-months before the first deadline for water users to ensure their metering equipment meets the new rules and no one knows what data
logger or telemetry units are approved for installation. Without this decision, no water user in NSW can be compliant. Farmers
all around NSW are under enough pressure already, enough is enough".
On Sunday 29th September Landline featured a story on the pig monitoring project that was completed in the Berrigal Creek region over the
last three years. The collars used in that project are now in use for the GVIA project.
We have eight collared pigs and a camera grid monitoring pig movements in our region, as shown in the image of the collared boar. Area wide
control activities will begin in the next few weeks. If we are to achieve our target 80-90% control we need everyone to be involved in
effective control activities.
Groups across the northern basin communities would like to correct several claims made during an interview with Michael Condon on the ABC’s
‘Country Hour’ on 2 September 2019. These statements are demonstrably false, and not supported by any evidence. The fact that they were
broadcast without challenge points to the lack of knowledge of water issues and the tendency to perpetuate opinion as fact, as in other
recent ABC programs.
From the 20th to the 26th of September Moree will host a number of innovative Agtech founders. The intention is to connect these Agtech
businesses with farmers to ensure that the products and services being developed align with the needs of farmers. The tour includes an
irrigation tour, a cotton research tour and broadacre and livestock tours in the Moree region. With a wrap up Pitch night at BAMM on
Thursday 25th September.
For more information please contact Brooke Sauer 0427 090 279 or brooke@intellectag.com
Water availability has been updated following the recent resource assessment, availability for irrigation has increased due to trade of
high security allocations into the general security pool. Currently there is 3GL available in irrigation general security accounts but
with limited deliverability and 35GL for environmental water managers. We remain in Stage 3 of drought management as the Copeton Dam
holds predominately critical water supplies only.
The GVIA has Gwydir Regulated General Security (400ML) and Lower Gwydir Groundwater (16ML) of allocations for expression of a price per
megalitre for each parcel by 12pm Monday, 23 September 2019 by emailing gvia@gvia.org.au.
Come and join B&W Rural for a BBQ lunch at 12:30pm, Friday 13 September 2019 at the B&W Rural Office.
B&W Rural will have representatives from N-Drip giving a demonstration and talk about their new gravity fed drip irrigation technology.
This has the potential for labour savings and huge water savings in years to come. See flyers attached and the below link for more
information. Please RSVP by 9am Friday to Loretta Menzies; p: (02) 6750 7000 | e: Loretta.Menzies@elders.com.au
The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, Water Division late Friday night released their final version of their Independent
Review of Floodplain Harvesting Policy
Implementation as well as the NSW Government’s Floodplain
Harvesting Action Plan
to respond to this advice. The NSW Government will also be holding public consultation on these documents, due to start in Narrabri on
Monday, 9 September 2019.
We’ve asked for regional DPIE offices to be set up to access the webinar on Wednesday 18th for those that cannot make one of the
locations. For GVIA members, our office will be set up with the webinar.
Zara Lowien, Executive Officer of the Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association, said it’s important that anyone in NSW that has a dam that can
collect rainfall runoff from across their farm, considers attending a consultation session or the webinar.
Irrigation groups from northern NSW have added their voice to concerns with the quality of the Natural Resources Commissions draft report
reviewing the Barwon Darling Water Sharing Plan.
They collectively provided a submission to the draft review saying that the NRC appears to have moved away from its previous approach to
reviews and have provided no evidence of a former robust process in this draft report.
Northern irrigators say they are frustrated that the NRC relied heavily on expert opinion with “so-called” supporting evidence that was not
publicly available.
Together with the Moree and Garah branches of NSW Farmers, the Gwydir Valley CGA and GrowerCo, we recently wrote to our Federal and State
local members regarding the proposed rail-way line upgrade for the Inland Rail. The new proposal will see construction not starting
until October 2020 (after being due to start at the end of 2019) and our rail line for Narrabri to Moree will now be closed for 17 months.
We wrote because construction will not happen during the drought but rather when the drought is potentially breaking and recovering, thus
only adding further economic hardship to the farmer and community. We propose to move forward the upgrades, to complete a large part
whilst no commodities are moving by rail for export and thus minimise disruption once the drought breaks. This approach also represents an
opportunity to provide employment and an economic boost to the region in a time when our community is struggling. We're asking members to
contact local members and elected representatives as well as ARTC, to support this proposal. See link for ARTC contact information.
This is a great opportunity for our local community to inform the Senate Select Committee inquiry into Jobs for the Future in Regional Areas
about the opportunities and challenges in our region. The Committee inquiry will cover a number of matters including: new industries and
employment opportunities for regions; existing jobs in regions in clean energy technology and ecological services and their future
significance; lessons learned from structural adjustments and privatisation and their impact on labour markets and local economies; the
importance of long-term planning to support the diversification of supply chain industries and local economies; and measures to guide the
transition into new industries and employment.
Submission closing date is 6 September 2019.
The Gwydir Strategic Pest Management initiative that brings landholders and National Parks together in the management of feral pigs is well
underway now. Despite the dry conditions there are still significant feral pig numbers out there, and they are still breeding, so we all
need to remain vigilant in our control of these feral pests.
Critical to managing feral pigs is to use all control mechanisms. The LLS have a Winter Feral Pig Control Program running until the end of
August, producers who are working with their neighbours trapping or baiting are encouraged to contract the LLS on 1300 795 299 to source
grain for trapping and baiting.
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