Over 10,000 people from all over the MIA attended the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) consultation meeting in Griffith on 15 December. The demonstration of strength and unity in our community certainly left an impression on those in attendance, including Minister Tony Burke and Federal Opposition Leader, Tony Abbott. We will continue to work with our peak irrigation representatives (National Irrigators’ Council and NSW Irrigators’ Council) as well as the Murrumbidgee Valley Stakeholder Group to ensure the final Basin Plan strikes a proper balance between the environment and communities.

• What you can do:

- Read the proposed Basin Plan and make a submission to the MDBA by 16 April 2012. Further information can be found on the MDBA’s website. The MDBA prefers submissions lodged online. Submissions lodged outside the online system should be clearly identified by including the words "Submission on the proposed Basin Plan" in the document title, subject line or body of the submission. If this step is not taken, the MDBA will not consider your submission as part of the formal consultation process.

- Attend a submission writing workshop. For those who would like some assistance, the Murrumbidgee Valley Stakeholder Group will be holding submission writing workshops in February/March. Details of the workshops will be advertised by the group and placed on our website when dates and venues are confirmed.

- Write to state and federal politicians. Contact details are below. Let them know how the Basin Plan will affect you and your business. Provide alternative solutions or constructive changes to the current draft plan where possible.

If you have any questions about the draft Basin Plan or the submission process please contact our Policy Officer, Elizabeth Watson on 6962 0200 or email elizabeth.watson@mirrigation.com.au.