A plan to propel the state’s irrigation infrastructure to the next stage is under way at Tasmanian Irrigation (TI), with a shift in focus from new schemes to connectivity.
TI has conducted a study of scheme structure across Tasmania to explore potential connectivity, enhancement and modernisation of existing irrigation schemes. The project also explored development of potential new schemes that may enhance economic development by the movement of water to its highest economic use.
The Tasmania Future Irrigation Project builds on the successful delivery of irrigation schemes since 2010.
Irrigation schemes from the first suite of locations have all been delivered, with 10 locations fully operational as part of tranche one that ran from 2010-2015.
The next five schemes, that are included in tranche two (2016-2018), are on their way to being delivered, with two fully operational and three being built.
Tasmanian Irrigation (TI) chief executive Nicola Morris said conversations between TI and industry leaders and the government had begun openly talking about tranche three but those schemes would not come online until the completion of tranche two, expected in 2018.
She said the focus of tranche three would be on how to enhance the existing schemes, through connectivity, and also how to add value to their existing infrastructure.
“We want to invest in the next stage of irrigation, that could look like brand new schemes or enhance or interconnect schemes,” Ms Morris said.
A report from TI to the state government, handed down in May, suggests hydro power could be a way TI could add value to the schemes into the future, with investment in green fields infrastructure.
Ms Morris said connecting schemes would give more freedom to farmers subscribed to the scheme as it opened up opportunity for buying and selling between farmers.
Tranche two schemes include: the Southern Highlands, Duck, Scottsdale, North Esk and the Swan Valley schemes. Two of the five are complete and three are in varying stages of completion.
A $20 million investment package was announced in June to develop the Swan Valley scheme, on the East Coast, as well as funds to support a feasibility study to explore potential new sites for schemes across the state.The construction of the Swan Valley scheme is expected to create 16 full time jobs.
During the election campaign, the Federal Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Barnaby Joyce announced $1.78 million funding for the feasibility study for Tasmania’s Future Irrigation Project.