Urgent Irrigator Announcement

27 September 2002

ALL MURRUMBIDGEE IRRIGATORS

Murrumbidgee Irrigation is continuing negotiations with the Snowy for extra water.

The deadline to secure additional summer water has been extended until Tuesday, 1 October.

Dick Thompson, Chairman of Murrumbidgee Irrigation, said, "We are currently in negotiations with the Snowy for a better deal for irrigators and to protect jobs in the irrigation towns. Details of the package are not yet finalised, however, irrigators must secure their option for additional water by next Tuesday."

"We will have staff available over the weekend to discuss options with interested irrigators."

Mr Thompson urges all irrigators to consider the Snowy offer as there is still no indication water allocations will increase prior to February.

Weekend contact: 6962 0230

ends

For further information contact: Geoff Hipkins, Chief Executive, phone: 6953 0100