Automation of delivery system complete

8 November 2024

The end of a decade long automation program was highlighted by Murrumbidgee Irrigation’s (MI) Chair, Tracey Valenzisi, at the organisation’s twenty sixth Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Griffith on Thursday.

Ms Valenzisi noted that the modernisation of the MI integrated supply system will deliver a host of customer benefits.

“These upgrades will give us a delivery system which will underpin a more flexible, timely and efficient water delivery network for many decades to come,” she said.

Ms Valenzisi said that the key to any organisation’s long-term success is having a clear and forward-thinking strategy.

“We have been exploring MI’s future beyond the automation process, as well as considering how we might operate with reduced water availability while exploring potential outcomes that will benefit both our shareholders and stakeholders, in the long run,” she said.

“While we can't foresee the future, we anticipate that our organisation’s next significant advancement will likely be in the digital space.

“To remain competitive in the evolving irrigation industry, we must maximise the potential of our tools and technology, focusing on optimising our advanced IT systems, customer interfaces, and data utilisation.”

Shareholders were also reminded that this year has brought significant challenges regarding water policy.

“The Federal Government's introduction of the Restoring Our Rivers Bill in December 2023 has unfortunately placed a renewed focus on the buyback of productive water,” Ms Valenzisi said.

“MI has always maintained that the solution is not as straightforward as simply buying back productive water from irrigators.

“The meeting allowed for discussions with shareholders on options to address the impact of buybacks, including efficiency projects, water sales, water purchases, investment returns and maintenance requirements.

“We remain committed to successfully delivering projects that generate the water savings required under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.”

Addressing shareholders, MI’s Managing Director, Brett Jones, said it was pleasing to see the completion of the remaining automation works this year.

“I believe we have now embedded automation across our business,” he said,

“Of course, this is not the end of the journey simply the beginning of our next stage, focusing on delivering greater value from our assets and always looking for the next improvement opportunity to support our customers.”

Shareholders supported the reappointment Independent Director, Lil Bianchini, and welcomed the reappointment of Member Director, Grant Delves. They also approved several changes to the constitution.

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