Permanent Water Transfer Applications

12 June 2002

Applications are now being accepted for permanent water transfers within the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area and to external irrigation systems.

In a move that sets the scene for future high return developments within the MIA. Geoff Hipkins, Chief Executive of Murrumbidgee Irrigation said that Directors ultimately expect to see sustainable growth through internal transfers to new development lands, as well as transfers in from outside the area.

"Transfers out of the company's licence will be permitted from 1 July 2002." announced Mr Hipkins. "Shareholders have recently been issued with guidelines for permanent water transfers, and additional copies are available from our offices. They contain a lot of new information that farmers should become familiar with."

"Water transfer is a primary driver for water use efficiency. Irrigators who have reduced their water use through the installation of high tech on-farm upgrades may be in a position to consider a permanent transfer. However, before permanently transferring water I encourage irrigators to carefully consider their future allocation needs and complete a whole farm plan including a medium term water budget" continued Mr Hipkins, "it is important that before water is transferred permanently, all options and impacts are considered including the future marketability and sustainability of an irrigation property."

The preparation of a whole farm plan and water budget is part of the FarmWise course managed by Murrumbidgee Irrigation under MIA EnviroWise. The course is free to all irrigation farmers and their families. Anyone interested in completing a whole farm plan, or learning more about improved farm practices should contact Murrumbidgee Irrigation to enroll in FarmWise, or speak to the program coordinator Bart Challacombe.

"Current and planned upgrades to on-farm and off-farm infrastructure will impact water use for many irrigation farmers. Murrumbidgee Irrigation staff are available to discuss the new water transfer arrangements with interested shareholders."

"Water is our most precious resource." stated Mr Hipkins, 'the way we manage this resource will determine the future of this region and our economic sustainability.

In keeping with the ethic, Mr Hipkins added that there are limits to transfers to ensure that change is managed and impacts are monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure no negative outcomes for community groups or the environment. "The take up of transfers will be under continual review by the Company."

ends