8 November 2006

WATER ALLOCATION UNCERTAINTY REMAINS

Murrumbidgee Irrigation today advised that they are still awaiting confirmation of a critical review of water availability and announced allocations for the Murrumbidgee Valley being undertaken by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), expected by the end of the week.

Managing Director Brett Tucker said “DNR are still finalising their assessment so it is impossible to provide specific advice to customers at this time, however let me assure everyone that we are exploring every avenue to mitigate against any reduction in allocation”.

Mr Tucker said Murrumbidgee Irrigation remained in regular contact with its customers and had taken the decision to warn of potential allocation cuts at a time when irrigators were making significant investment decisions.

“It is not in anyone's interests to speculate on what the outcomes may be, however saying nothing is not an option at a time when our customers are spending time and money keeping farm enterprises going”.

“We will continue to do all that we can to keep all parties informed. We now must wait for further advice from government,” said Mr Tucker.

Mr Tucker also urged customers to exercise extreme caution when making farm business decisions until advice from DNR became clear.

“I remind customers that we will do everything possible to mitigate against any reduction in water availability. Until we have the advice I continue to ask that our customers work closely with staff in ensuring against water loss across the system”. Mr Tucker also advised that Murrumbidgee Irrigation would shortly be announcing a suite of measures to improve operational control and further reduce system losses in order to ensure continuity of supply for this and future seasons.

Murrumbidgee Irrigation again advises customers and interested parties seeking further information to either contact Mr Tucker directly, Corporate Affairs Manager Matt Linnegar or refer to their website www.mirrigation.com.au for the latest announcements.