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Century-old irrigation channels with new pipelines and automated outlets project starts in Macalister district

Southern Rural Water's construction partner, Jaydo Construction Pty Ltd, has started works on the Newry pipeline component of the MID Phase 2 Project in Gippsland.

By news@gippsland - 20th January 2023 - Back to News

The Newry pipeline contract was announced in September 2022 and will be delivered as part of Phase 2 of the $159.7 million Macalister Irrigation District modernisation program. The works will deliver around 4,300 megalitres in water savings and increase delivery efficiency to customers to over 90 per cent. This will drive vital investment in on-farm efficiencies, improve farm productivity and support local businesses to be more climate resilient.

Macalister Irrigation District Phase 2 project is funded by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments and Southern Rural Water

Reliable piped supply

The MID Phase 2 project is replacing 100-year-old channels with new pipelines and automated outlets. Transitioning to a reliable piped supply, means water is not lost from leakage or evaporation and increases environmental outcomes with a reduction in farm runoff into waterways. The project includes the installation of the Newry pipeline, including associated outlet upgrades, reconnection works and decommissioning for Newry customers.

The Macalister Irrigation District is the largest irrigation district in southern Victoria, with a strong dairy sector and developing vegetable and cropping industries, contributing more than $500 million to the Victorian economy.

Increased delivery and efficiency

This landmark project is vital to the efficient production of food and fibre across Victoria, while delivering significant benefits for the environment through increased environmental flows. The MID Phase 2 project is funded by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments and Southern Rural Water.

Southern Rural Water Managing Director Cameron FitzGerald said, "We are excited to start work on the Newry Pipeline Project. This major infrastructure upgrade is a win for Gippsland and will markedly increase both water delivery efficiency and customer service levels."

Pictures from Agriculture Victoria Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com