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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.

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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. 

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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

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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. 

  1. Buybacks begin
  2. Cumulative threats to water access
  3. Northern Basin Connectivity Expert Panel report
  4. Coastal metering 
  5. Fish passage news update 
  6. Upper Murrumbidgee River Health Strategy 
  7. Coastal Sustainable Extraction Project

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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 report is the departments summary of feedback received on the Draft framework for delivering the 450 GL of additional environmental water.  It forms part of the department consultation.  
For a more detailed assessment the department website includes their: 

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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.

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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. 

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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

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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

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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. 

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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.

https://www.nrar.nsw.gov.au/news/water-users-cant-harvest-from-floodplain-during-wet-period-unless-they-have-compliant-meters

Information on NRAR's website on FPH Compliance is below

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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.

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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. 

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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.  

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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

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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 2023

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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 first one is from Moree Plains Shire Council, available here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2022businessimpact

The second is a NSW State government survey, available here: https://survey.pwc.com/jfe/form/SV_e2wqc5xlElPlxu6

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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

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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 new devices are: 

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. 

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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.

For isolated members needing emergency assistance for animals contact LLS emergency hotline 1800 814 647 or visit Emergency Assistance For Ag & Animals - Local Land Services (nsw.gov.au).
 

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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. 

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The Bureau of Meteorology have provided an initial minor to moderate flood warning for the parts of the Gwydir Valley via NSW warnings - http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/flood/gwydirriver.shtml 

The region is currently on a widespread flood watch for minor to major flooding due to forecasted rainfall around the region.

Use the above link to keep updated with the announcements and follow the stream height data.

For a comparison on past floods, see our webpage a History of Flooding. 

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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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

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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.  

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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. 

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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. 

To review the water allocation please see the Department website.

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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.”

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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 regulated plan can be accessed via sl-2022-429 (nsw.gov.au)

The unregulated plan can be accessed via sl-2022-430 (nsw.gov.au).

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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.

For more information visit WaterInsights - WaterNSW

News |

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. 

News |

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. 

News |

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%.

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Department of Planning and Environment have made their starting allocation announcements for Regulated Water Sources 2022-23.

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.  

News |

The Department of Planning and Environment have made their starting allocation announcements for Unregulated Water Sources for 2022-23.

The announcement has provided a 1 ML per unit share or 100% allocation for all unregulated licence holders. 

Unregulated floodplain harvesting licences have not been enacted and therefore, there was no allocation announcement made for these licences. 

News |

Department of Planning and Environment have announced the starting allocation for the NSW Groundwater Sources for 2022-23.

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. 

News |

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. 

News |

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. 

News |

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. 

News |

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).

News |

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.   

News |

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. 

News |

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.    

News |

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.

News |

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. 

News |

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. 

News |

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.

[1] https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/lcdocs/inquiries/2818/Report%20no.%201%20-%20Select%20Committee%20-%20Floodplain%20harvesting%20-%20December%202021.pdf

News |

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.

News |

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. 

News |

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.

News |

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. 

News |

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.

News |

The Bureau of Meteorology have issued a moderate flood warning again for the Gwydir Valley, with Major flooding expected at Yarraman of 7m by Tuesday. 

Follow the BOM Flood Warning updates here.

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.

Fast Facts |

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.

Metering |

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. 

News |

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.

News |

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. 

News |

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.

News |

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.

Stay safe.

News |

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.

Please stay safe.

News |

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.  

News |

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. 

Supplementary access usage and the updated rolling roster is available via our website.  To see a break down of supplementary events and sharing arrangements visit  https://waterinsights.waternsw.com.au/11985-gwydir-regulated-river/allocation 

News |

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.

News |

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. 

Fast Facts |

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.

News |

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.  

To assess if you need a meter, see our video series via https://vimeo.com/showcase/8853111

News |

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.

News |

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”.

News |

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

News |

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

News |

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.

 [1] Document in the comprehensive barriers to compliance document by NSWIC https://www.nswic.org.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2021-09-01-NSWIC-Report-on-Barriers-to-Metering-Compliance-FINAL-.pdf

News |

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.

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