The economy, the community, as well as farmers are benefiting from Southern Rural Water’s Newry pipeline project in the Macalister Irrigation District.
There are 25 people directly employed on the Newry Pipeline project and 90 per cent of those people live locally.
The pipeline is being built by Southern Rural Water’s construction partner Jaydo as part of phase two of the $159.7 million Macalister Irrigation District modernisation program.
Southern Rural Water managing director Cameron FitzGerald said Southern Rural Water’s once-in-a-generation investment in modernising infrastructure would boost the economy.
“We are delighted to be employing local people and using local suppliers on our project,” Mr FitzGerald said.
“There are also 35 subcontractors employed by the project and 90 per cent of them are local businesses.”
Maffra resident Julie Foat is also benefiting from the Newry pipeline and is proud to work for a project that will help farmers be more resilient to the impacts of climate change.
“My family is directly involved in agriculture as beef producers and this pipeline is essential to future proof farms like ours,” Ms Foat said.
“I have a professional background in health, safety and compliance and love applying these skills on a job that’s going to leave such a positive legacy in my community.”
Jaydo’s Kayla Aucote, a barista turned labourer, said the project helped her switch industries and begin her Certificate III in Civil Construction.
“I’ve always wanted to work in construction. Jaydo has taken me on as an apprentice for this project and is supporting my education with formal training and on-the-job learning,” Ms Aucote said.
“There’s so much infrastructure investment happening in Victoria. I feel this project is setting me up to make the most of the career opportunities in the region and across the state.”
Melbourne-based project engineer Jaydon McLeod proactively asked to live and work in the region during the week because he’s passionate about supporting the community.
“I’ve got to know a lot of locals and it’s rewarding to know they support the work I’m doing,” Mr McLeod said.
“This project is so important to the economic and social fabric of the community. I know most of the team value doing rewarding work that’s on their doorstep.”
Mr FitzGerald said irrigation water was critical for food production and entire regions were supported by this infrastructure.
“This once-in-a-generation investment in modernising infrastructure will support the region’s agricultural businesses to become more efficient, productive and resilient,” Mr FitzGerald said.
“We are proud to be investing in local skills and people who are directly employed on this project that will leave the community with a positive lasting legacy.”