However, the final touches are now being put on Murrumbidgee Irrigation’s modernisation works in the Sturt Canal, Benerembah, Wah Wah, Tabbita and Warburn, with a host of new structures being commissioned over the coming weeks.

The extensive 2018 modernisation works are building on from the automation of the Main Canal last year. 

Murrumbidgee Irrigation chief executive officer Brett Jones said staff have been working closely with contractors to ensure they could meet irrigator demand for water deliveries.

RELATED 

“It has been a juggling act,” he said.

“Staff and contractors have been working over weekends, and on rotation, to ensure that works will be completed on, or ahead of schedule.

“With some irrigators needing water as soon as possible, we have had to utilise structures before their final commissioning, and this has been a challenge without remote monitoring and control.”

The company believes the current modernisation works have been critical in enabling it to maximise the benefits of the projects already completed across the MIA.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reduce our operating costs, increase flow capacity, improve supply reliability and set up the region for the future,” Mr Jones said. 

The projects have been funded by the federal government to support the implementation of the Basin Plan. 

****

While you’re with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you’re up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.