Work on the Newry pipeline component of the Macalister Irrigation District Phase 2 Project in Gippsland is under way.
The Newry pipeline contract was announced in September 2022 and will be delivered as part of Phase 2 of the $159.7 million MID modernisation program.
The works will deliver around 4300 megalitres in water savings and increase delivery efficiency to customers to more than 90 per cent.
This will drive vital investment in on-farm efficiencies, improve farm productivity and support local businesses to be more climate resilient.
The MID Phase 2 project is replacing 100-year-old channels with new pipelines and automated outlets.
Transitioning to a reliable piped supply means water is not lost from leakage or evaporation and increases environmental outcomes with a reduction in farm run-off into waterways.
The project includes the installation of the Newry pipeline, including associated outlet upgrades, reconnection works and decommissioning for Newry customers.
The MID is the largest irrigation district in southern Victoria, with a strong dairy sector and developing vegetable and cropping industries, contributing more than $500 million to the Victorian economy.
This landmark project is vital to the efficient production of food and fibre across Victoria, while delivering significant benefits for the environment through increased environmental flows.
“We are excited to start work on the Newry Pipeline Project,” Southern Rural Water managing director Cameron FitzGerald said.
“This major infrastructure upgrade is a win for Gippsland and will markedly increase both water delivery efficiency and customer service levels.”
The MID Phase 2 project is funded by the federal and Victorian governments and Southern Rural Water.