The Overflow | Autumn 2023

Quarterly Publication of Irrigation Australia (WA Region)

NO. 72 AUTUMN 2023

IN THIS ISSUE Upgrade to Hossack Park

Irrigation of crops with marginally saline water

Pump upgrade at The Vines Golf Course

The myth of the ring-main being a fix-all

Back to basics: seasonal adjustment Victor George Kailis Oval

Belmont Forum teams up with tenants to save water

Murray groundwater area allocation statement

Improving water management in Carnarvon

Turf: a natural sponge for carbon dioxide

Help for your small business in WA

Contents Upgrade to Hossack Park in Parkwood

10

WA Office Staff

Pump upgrade at The Vines Golf Course

14

Tracy Martin - National Membership & Regions Manager

Victor George Kailis Oval

16

tracy.martin@irrigation.org.au

Back to basics: seasonal adjustment

18

Murray groundwater area allocation statement released

20

Turf: a natural sponge for carbon dioxide

22

Irrigation of crops with marginally saline water

24

The myth of the ring-main being a fix-all

28

Belmont Forum teams up with tenants to save water

30

Improving water management in Carnarvon through innovation

32

Help for your small business in WA

34

Rebecca New - WA Projects Officer rebecca.new@irrigation.org.au Judy Clarke - Administrative Support adminsupport@irrigation.org.au

The Overflow is the quarterly publication of Irrigation Australia (WA Region). Articles published are views expressed by the authors.

IAL(WA) is not responsible for their accuracy and disclaims any liability which may arise from any person acting on the materials contained within. Editorial content does not necessarily represent the views or policy of Irrigation Australia (WA Region) Publisher/Editor: IAL WA Region, PO Box 3401 Success, WA 6964 Tel: (08) 6263 7774

Front Cover: Hossack Park – City of Canning

UPCOMING TRAINING PROGRAMS For further information, please visit www.coie.com.au

Meter Installation & Validation

18th-20th

APRIL

Commencing 26th

2nd-5th

MAY

Certificate III in Irrigation Technology

Meter Installation & Validation

Commencing 9th

6th

JUNE

Certificate IV in Irrigation Management

Basics in Drip Irrigation

7th-8th

Basics in Wiring & Electrical Troubleshooting

13th-15th

Meter Installation & Validation

Keep up-to-date with irrigation in Australia, visit the IAL website at www.irrigationaustralia.com.au

2

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

Chairperson's Report Alison Waters

From the CEO Dave Cameron

Welcome to the Autumn edition of The Overflow.

Hello again.

It’s been a hot summer. I hope you are all recovering from a busy irrigation season as we head into Autumn.

Readers of our Journal will have seen some high-level impressions of Irrigation Australia’s recent strategic planning processes so I won’t repeat them here – we are starting to chip away at a long list of tasks.

It’s all systems go in the WA office of Irrigation Australia with planning of the Waterwise Irrigation Expo well underway with Optus Stadium being chosen as the feature venue. Registration for delegates will be made available soon, so keep an eye out on your inboxes.

Irrigation Australia met with Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development regarding the Gnangara Horticulture Water Use Efficiency grants to assist growers implementing water use efficiency infrastructure and grants to implement soil amelioration activities. A webinar was made available to IAL members to showcase this business opportunity to identify how the business could assist with agricultural customers by purchasing suitable products.

LIAWA awards of excellence sponsored by Water Corporation were held on 25 March and congratulations to Tim Davies Landscaping for winning the Capital Waterwise Garden of the Year with their project being a verge landscaping project on a residential duplex block in Cottesloe.

Irrigation Australia and the Waterwise subcommittee have scheduled to meet with Water Corporation to review the eligibility criteria for waterwise products and smart approved watermark products in the upcoming weeks.

Department of Water and Environmental Regulation has released the Perth Waterwise Action Plan 2 which contains 41 actions to conserve water resources and whilst creating climate resilient communities. A copy of the plan is available on their website.

On a local note, shelf wobblers and promotional QR codes have been printed and should be on display at retailers across the state promoting The Overflow and Irrigation Australia. Keep an eye out next time when you are getting your irrigation fittings.

Perhaps the most significant progress over the last couple of months has been an enormous effort by our training and administration staff to improve students and larger customer experiences around our training delivery, planning and logistics. Training demand is also growing faster than we are which is creating short-term pressure but hopefully longer-term sustainability for Irrigation Australia, and importantly growth in skills recognition in our sector.

Welcome to Maddie Coward and Ashleigh Lang to our Brisbane office – recent starters to support this push and our next steps in growing memberships and improvement in a number of related programs and systems.

I’ve got the Waterwise Expo in the diary for August and know Tracy and the team are well-advanced in planning and at the time of writing a number of exhibition sites had been sold.

I’m also relieved to say we are on track now with our next major national conference scheduled for 1-7 September 2024 in Sydney. It is combined with the ICID 75th International Executive Council Meeting and 9th Asian Regional Conference – while it may seem like a long way away, there is still a lot to do. Importantly we have an exceptional committee overseeing planning, and the regional conference is a lot more relaxed than the world congress with more flexibility to respond to some of the feedback from Adelaide last year. Please start having a think about how you’re going to get there, keep sending suggestions through, and note you have a key local WA rep in Andrew Ogden directly involved now.

Dave Cameron IAL Chief Executive Officer

I joined Bec and visited The Vines Golf course and met the Golf Course Superintendent, Brad and heard the problems associated with managing aging infrastructure through the summer peak season. Read more in this edition's article. We got to see the new pump shed and discussed future irrigation upgrades at the course including new central, mainline and laterals for the 36 hole course. You can hear more about the pump shed and system at the upcoming members event at The Vines Golf Course on 4 May 2023.

I look forward to seeing you at the Waterwise Irrigation Expo in August.

Alison Waters IAL (WA) Industry Chairperson

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

3

Regional Update

By Tracy Martin, National Membership & Regions Manager & Rebecca New, WA Projects Officer

Welcome to the Autumn issue of The Overflow.

The WA region has focused prodomentially on planning the Waaterwise Irrigation Expo that will be held at Optus Stadium on Wednesday 16th August and provides Exhibitors with a face-to-face opportunity with the urban landscape industry of Western Australia to showcase its latest irrigation technologies. Exhibition booths have been selling very fast with more still available. If your business is interested in showcasing its latest products and services to the wider irrigation industry, you’ll need to get in quickly!

The year is certainly moving fast and the WA Regional Committee

4

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

continues to meet monthly to review regional activities and particularly our partnerships with the Department of Water & Environmental Regulation and Water Corporation. There are some new activities with the Department of Education currently under negotiation.

During May, Irrigation Australia delivered the Irrigation Efficiency Training to those eligible Waterwise Councils in the Waterwise Council Training Program. Irrigation Australia (WA Region) continues to investigate how to deliver more Waterwise garden workshops with councils in and around Perth and remain active with a range of Waterwise promotional activities.

An upcoming member event has been

scheduled for Thursday 4 May 2023 at The Vines Golf Course to showcase the upgrade to the course’s pump house.

Every irrigation system has a viable service life, eventually reaching the point in time when it must be replaced. The irrigation system at Vines Resort Golf Course is over 30 years old, and nearing the end of its life has needed numerous pump and irrigation system repairs, and extensive ongoing maintenance.

This member event will include presentations from the Golf Course Superintendent, Brad Pavlinovich and Rick Charles from Western Irrigation, on the collaboration to upgrade the pump station (now complete) and replace the irrigation system on the entire course.

MAJOR SPONSOR

EXHIBITION PROSPECTUS Exhibition Space on Sale Now

WATER WISE IR R IG ATION EXPO 2023 16TH AUGUST 2023 Between 7.30am and 4.00pm Optus Stadium Victoria Park Drive, Burswood

ABOUT THE EXPO The Waterwise Irrigation Expo provides Exhibitors a face to face opportunity with the urban landscape industry of Western Australia.

This biennial event attracts delegates from all sectors of the irrigation industry including Local Govt Parks & Gardens Teams, Landscapers, Irrigation Installers, Contractors, Retailers and Turf Managers. A dedicated stream is being introduced this year for school gardeners, widening the audience for exhibitors to showcase their latest products and water efficient technologies.

The Expo will consist of delegates being assigned to a group for the duration of the day and being escorted to various locations within the Burswood Park Precinct for hands-on field training.

VISIT THIS LINK TO REGISTER YOUR EXHIBITION SPACE AT THE 2023 WATERWISE IRRIGATION EXPO CLICK HERE 1

SEMINAR PROGRAM WELCOME OPENING CEREMONY MORNING TEA ROTATIONAL GROUPS COMMENCE ROTATION 1 ROTATION 2

2.45PM 3.00PM 4.00PM

LUNCH ROTATION 3 ROTATION 4 AFTERNOON TEA ROTATION 5 CONCLUSION

Each Group will have a dedicated time slot to visit the Trade Show, ensuring Exhibitors a constant audience throughout the event.

The Trade Show will be “free entry” to the irrigation/landscape industry, allowing for an even larger audience for Exhibitors to showcase their latest technologies.

EXHIBITOR TRADE BOOTH

SINGLE BOOTH $2,500.00 + GST MBR RATE $3,500.00 + GST NON MBR RATE

DOUBLE BOOTH $3,500.00 + GST MBR RATE $4,500.00 + GST NON MBR RATE

THIS TRADE BOOTH COMES COMPLETE WITH:Company Name in standard format on the front fascia

Walls Velcro compatible front-runner material

3m x 2m deep flush panel system with 2.4m high walls

Lighting = 2 x spotlights Power = 1 x 5 amp power outlet

BOOTH STAFF FOOD/BEVERAGE VOUCHERS: SINGLE BOOTH: 2 VOUCHERS | DOUBLE BOOTH: 4 VOUCHERS 30 minute loading dock time will be allocated upon confirmation of booking (scheduled for Tuesday 15th August 2023 from 2.00pm onwards) Site breakdown can commence on the afternoon of Wednesday 16th August 2023 from 4.00pm.

Advans Exhibition Services will liaise directly with each registered Exhibitor to finalise signage and arrange hire of any equipment.

CONTACT US: 1st Floor, U2, 26 Hammond Rd, Cockburn Central WA 6164 | +61 (08) 6263 7774 tracy.martin@irrigation.org.au | info@irrigation.org.au | irrigationaustralia.com.au 2

TRADE SHOW FLOOR PLAN

ENTRY

ENTRY

MAIN ENTRANCE

Sold

Available

CONTACT US: 1st Floor, U2, 26 Hammond Rd, Cockburn Central WA 6164 | +61 (08) 6263 7774 tracy.martin@irrigation.org.au | info@irrigation.org.au | irrigationaustralia.com.au 3

Regional Update Cont.

The Vines Resort Golf Course resides in the Swan Valley and was established in 1989. The course contains 36 holes, a driving range, synthetic turf mini golf, resort accommodation, a feature swimming pool and landscaped gardens. The 36-hole course covers 100Ha including 4Ha of bent grass greens and 220 sand bunkers. The busy course has hosted many golf tournaments such as Heineken Classic, Johnnie Walker Classic and the Lexus Cup, and continues to host a suite of functions and corporate and member events.

2023 Waterwise Irrigation Expo This biennial event attracts delegates from all sectors of the irrigation industry including Local Govt Parks & Gardens Teams, Landscapers, Irrigation Installers/Maintainers, Contractors, Retailers, Turf Managers and School Groundskeepers - we are sure the program will have something for everyone working in the industry.

Download the Exhibitor Prospectus and/or secure a booth.

The Expo will consist of delegates being assigned to a group for the duration of the day and being escorted

to various locations within the Burswood Park Precinct for hands-on field training. Yes – you have a rare opportunity to explore the ins and outs of Optus Stadium and get to see some of the best products and services on offer.

Waterwise As advised in previous issues, Water Corporation’s initiative for the WeatherBased Irrigation Controller Rebate will be closing on 31 May 2023. This initiative was available to Water Corporation customers that wanted to help save water in the garden and were exclusively available for customers to engage with members endorsed in the Waterwise Programs.

how your business can benefit from being a Waterwise member, please visit: http://www.waterwiseprograms. com.au select your location and click on “Become Waterwise” or contact the WA office on 08 6263 7774.

The popular “Guide to a Water Efficient Garden” digital booklet continues to be promoted online through various social media channels. We encourage members and the industry to distribute this to the community.

IALWA will be working with Water Corporation throughout the year to discuss future initiatives for the 2023/2024 irrigation season and we will advise members on those outcomes in due course.

The Waterwise Sub Committee are reviewing the associated benefits of the programs and hopes to deliver more useful services and tools in the future. If you are interested to know

Authorised sprinkler testing signs If you are testing an irrigation system outside of water rostering hours, as a gardening industry professional, you are not required to register for an exemption with the Water Corporation. However, to promote that you are doing authorised work and avoid a possible infringement, we recommend you have a sign clearly displayed at the front of the property.

Magnetic sign: $95ea non-members or $65ea for IAL Members All signs approximately 400mm x 300mm.

To download the order form please click here.

8

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

TRAINING WITH IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA RTO: 91313

COURSES FOR 2023 ARE NOW LIVE

BLENDED LEARNING

INDUSTRY EXPERT TRAINERS

HANDS ON EXPERIENCE

Whether you're just entering the industry, or building on your current skills as an irrigation professional, we can create new possibilities and help shape your future in this ever-growing industry.

12+ Career Pathways Training Nationwide

BECOME CERTIFIED WITH US Certification is a series of industry-driven programs directly linked to accredited Vocational Education programs to give assurance to our customers that irrigation professionals know what they are doing and have committed to continuing professional development.

16+

QUALIFICATIONS SHORT COURSES Certificate IV in I rDr Ei gS aI Gt iNo nC OMUa Rn Sa Eg Se m e n t

TRAINING PROGRAMS ON OFFER

*Full course details and T&C can be found on our website!

(07) 3517 4000 www.irrigationaustralia.com.au training@irrigation.org.au

CENTRE OF IRRIGATION EXCELLENCE INDUSTRY EXPERT TRAINING

AUSTRALIA WIDE

CERTIFICATIONS

MEMBERSHIPS

Upgrade to Hossack Park in Parkwood This irrigation project is an asset renewal and replacement of an aging irrigation system. In accordance with the City of Canning’s Water Management Strategy (2022) we aim to reduce our total water usage across the City by 10% over the next 5 years. We are targeting those locations with the highest water use. At Hossack Park, we aim to increase the D.U. from 52% to 85%, which could produce a more water-efficient system applying different application rates to each hydrozoned area. Several organised sporting clubs highly utilise active sporting grounds such as Hossack Park all year round. We aim to provide locations and facilities that enhance the user experience and encourage people to join and participate in outdoor activities.

The scope of works was to renew and modernise the irrigation system at Hossack Park not just to include infield irrigation but to drill and construct a new artesian bore and construct and

10

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

install the electrical cubicle to house the variable speed drive. The addition of a permanent on-site wetting agent system was also included in the scope.

The project was completed over a twoyear time frame.

During the installation of the irrigation, the oval also was undergoing a sports lighting upgrade as well as major club room refurbishments. This meant that there were numerous contracts being managed at the site at the same time.

Coordination of the works was vital to ensure that none of the contracted works were disrupted during any of the construction phases. Weekly meetings with City officers ensured communications were kept up to date and programmed works were understood by all involved.

The irrigation design was to accommodate delivering irrigation to active areas and passive areas separately to ensure more water is

delivered to the high-use areas. As the reserve is home to both softball and soccer, the delivery to high-wear areas was incorporated into the design.

Hossack Park is home to the South East Metropolitan Softball Association (SEMSA) and the main softball diamond was designed to irrigate separately from the rest of the oval to ensure the application was directed to this specific area. Historical flooding on the main diamond was due to the lack of flexibility of the previous system and an inability to minimise water delivery to certain areas of the oval.

The bore was drilled to a depth of 170m with 250mm permaglass casing and 48 meters of stainless steel screen.

The pump is a Grundfos SP95/9 with a 37KW motor capable of delivering 26 litres per second at a total head of 104 TDH. The pump is set at 70 meters and controlled with an IMO Jaguar variable speed drive.

EARNING APPLAUSE IN STADIUMS WORLDWIDE

POWERFUL. DURABLE. VERSATILE. Keep your turf in championship form with efficient, high-performing Hunter irrigation solutions. From powerful I-40 and I-80 Rotors to reliable ICV Valves to intelligent ACC2 Controllers with Centralus™ Software, we have the lineup to ensure sports fields stay safe and playable all season long.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION | Built on Innovation®

Learn more. Visit hunter.info/hydrawise

National Free Call: 1 800 HUNTER Toll Free Fax: 1 800 651 680 www.hrproducts.com.au hrsales@hrproducts.com.au

Tel: 1 300 856 368 Fax: 1 300 856 369 www.nelsonirrigation.com.au info@nelsonirrigation.com.au

Hunter Industries Australia 50 Lynch St, Hawthorn, VIC 3122 Tel: 61 3 9562 9918 Fax: 61 3 9558 6983

The electrical cubicle was constructed to the City’s specification and included the permanent on site wetting agent dosing system. The dosing system injects a wetting agent into the mainline using a Grundfos DAA dosing pump with a delivery of 750mls per hour. The system has the capacity to apply wetting agent to the active spaces area and leave the passive areas with just irrigation.

The irrigation design was completed by a Certified Irrigation Designer with the parameters including Rainbird Falcon 6504 sprinklers, Bermad Hyflow solenoid valves and full poly ethylene pipe work. The design also took into consideration the existing mature trees and the ability to hydrozone these areas.

The irrigation contract was awarded to Horizon West Landscape and Irrigation PTY LTD. The timing of the works was to occur over the summer season starting in early December 2022. With consultation, the contractor agreed to keep the existing system operational during the installation process. This was able to be carried out due to the installation method and the contractor’s ability to arrange the installation works around the existing irrigation. This was a huge bonus as the oval was still being used for softball and the quality of the surface had to be retained. The installation was done in two stages, stage 1 to be completed by the end of December 2022 and stage 2 to be completed by the end of January 2023.

Irrigation electrical cubicle housing SD data Controller and Hunter controller for dosing pump operation

Open trench for 110 poly mainline and 32mm LD grey conduit

Lateral line which has been ploughed in with sprinkler location marked with blue paint

The completion of stage 2 was the time for the old system to be decommissioned and the new system to be commissioned. The installation of the new system did not interfere with the operation of the old system which meant the turf surface was not compromised during the installation process.

The installation of the system was carried out by open trenching to the mainline and vibratory plough for the lateral lines. This method of installation is vital to maintain the consistency of the playing surface with no interruptions to the user group who can still utilise the surface for both training and game day.

12

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

The nearly 1,250 m of 160/110 poly mainline and 64 solenoid valves was completed in 4 days. The nearly 7,400m of poly lateral lines were completed in the stages for both ovals. The system uses Rainbird Falcon 6504 sprinklers for the open areas and Hunter I-20 for the perimeter sprinklers.

The key outcome of this project was the ability of the contractor to install the new system and leave the existing system fully operational.

The coordination and proficiency of Horizon West made this process easy to implement and manage.

Regular site visits and checking of the installation at certain points were part of the project management and site supervision. Photos of the mainline before backfilling were recorded to ensure specified depth was achieved.

Photos of sprinkler installation and connection to the solenoid valves were also checked to ensure the specification was adhered to.

150mm bore head discharge assembly complete with 150mm Octave flow meter

Smarter From The Inside.

RC2 Controller

www.rainbird.com/connected

D42128

Pump upgrade at The Vines Golf Course The Vines Resort Golf Course resides in the Swan Valley and was established in 1989. The course contains 36 holes, a driving range, synthetic turf mini golf, resort accommodation, a feature swimming pool and landscaped gardens. The 36-hole course covers 100Ha with 4Ha of bent grass greens and 220 sand bunkers. The busy course has hosted many golf tournaments such as Heineken Classic, Johnnie Walker Classic and the Lexus Cup. The course continues to host a suite of functions and corporate and member events.

The Golf Course Superintendent, Brad Pavlinovich in consultation with management concluded that the existing system had reached its expiration date due to numerous pump maintenance and course repairs. It was decided that it was time to upgrade the complete system. A meeting with Western Irrigation was engaged to produce a new design for a pump station and a new irrigation system.

14

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

Western Irrigation conducted a master plan design of the pump station in January 2022, which took a few months to develop as the site is large and complex. A number of factors had to be reviewed including the condition of existing infrastructure and existing site complexities.

Irrigation Australia will be hosting an upcoming member event at The Vines Golf Course on Thursday 4 May 2023.

The event will showcase the watersaving initiatives implemented at the Golf Course.

A series of articles will feature in this and future editions of The Overflow magazine, covering various aspects of the innovative technologies and watersaving strategies implemented at the site – beginning with an introduction to The Vines Golf Course operation and the initial design process.

Victor George Kailis Oval Article by City of Cockburn The first preseason AFL match Fremantle Dockers V Adelaide Crows was held at Victor George Kailis Oval in Cockburn Central on Friday 24 February 2023. This is the Dockers' training ground and hasn’t had a game to this scale there before (only intraclub matches).

This was a partnership between Fremantle Dockers and the City of Cockburn with Programmed Property Services being responsible for the maintenance of the oval.

The oval was match prepared and

16

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

looking great for the game including Fremantle Dockers and the City of Cockburn logos painted onto the turf.

The game was filmed and available to watch on streaming service, Kayo.

Adelaide: 3.1 6.2 11.3 12.5 16.8 20.11 25.15 (165)

The style of the game was adjusted for preseason conditions being played in six 25 minute periods plus one 20 minute period.

Sources: Fremantle Dockers to play Adelaide Crows in first game at Cockburn ARC Victor George Kailis Oval | PerthNow

A huge number of spectators came to the ground to watch the game with the crowd favouring the home side.

Adelaide nabbed the chocolates with the final score below.

Cockburn ARC to host Dockers v Adelaide pre-season AFL match | City of Cockburn

Fremantle: 4.3 6.5 8.5 10.6 10.8 11.9 14.9 (93)

Easy Lok easy, reliable connections, everytime • Full range of configurations Available from 16mm to 110mm • EASY AND RELIABLE INSTALLATION • IMPACT AND CHEMICAL RESISTANT • MINIMISES PIPE TWIST • RATED TO 1600kPa • AIRLINE SAFETY

Back to basics: Seasonal adjustment

As the seasons change, so do the water needs of your lawn and garden. Adjusting your irrigation controller throughout the year ensures your garden is getting the water it needs according to our climate, without wasting a drop.

We know that in the shoulder months, many of our customers overwater their gardens. Add value to your service and help your customers by reminding them how and when to seasonally adjust their irrigation. And no matter what the season, we’re encouraging customers to switch off their controller when it’s raining.

Time of year January–February March April May June–August September October November December

18

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

Seasonal adjustment 100% 80% 60% Use manually, as necessary System turned off for Winter Sprinkler Switch-off Use manually, as necessary 60% 80% 90%

SUBMERSIBLE PUMPS

VERTICLE MULTISTAGE BOOSTER

Submersible water pumps (sometimes called “submergible pumps”) can be operated while completely submerged underwater. Mechanical seals are used to keep any water from entering the pump motor and short circuiting it. Submersible pumps have many useful applications, but the typical use is to pump water from a certain source, such as a water well, to a different desired destination.

Vertical multistage pump booster and pressure system, designed in various combinations to suit, whether it be Industrial, Building Services, Commercial, HVAC, Domestic or irrigation applications. Ranging from a singular pump system through to a complex 8 piece design.

DEISEL SKIDS

DIESEL TRAILERS

A true dry-prime pump, our self-priming system eliminates the need for water to prime the pump and is engineered to prevent product carryover.

The Pioneer Prime hydraulic design maximizes lift capability and offers both quick initial priming and continuous, unattended reprime under auto stop/start conditions.

Standard sizes available from 4”-12” (100 to 300 mm) sizes, engineered packages available up to 18” (457 mm). Vacuum-assisted pump configurations. Our team of experts designed Pioneer pump packages with select diesel engine models that deliver maximum performance when paired with the right Pioneer pump end

Sunshine West Facility: 67 Proximity Drive Sunshine West, Victoria

Dandenong South Facility: 106–110 Micro Circuit, Dandening South, Victoria

www.franklin-electric.com.au

Phone: 9799 5000 | Email: feaustralia@fele.com

Murray groundwater area allocation statement released The Murray groundwater area allocation statement was released by the Minister for Water Hon Simone McGurk on 23 December 2022. The new statement reduces groundwater allocation limits in response to declining rainfall due to climate change.

The 2022 Murray groundwater area allocation statement describes the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation’s (DWER) review of allocation limits in the Murray groundwater area. It outlines how we considered improved understanding of the Murray groundwater resources from the Peel Integrated Water Initiative.

The review focused on all Superficial aquifer resources in the Murray groundwater area as well as the deeper Leederville and Cattamarra Coal Measures resources in the Nambeelup subarea. It showed that taking groundwater up to the limits set in the 2012 Murray groundwater allocation plan is no longer sustainable as our climate continues to become drier and hotter.

The new allocation statement describes how allocation limits for the Superficial aquifer and for the Upper Leederville aquifer in the Nambeelup subarea, have been lowered to reduce the risks to groundwater‑dependent ecosystems and cultural values. The new allocation limits do not affect current licensees because their water entitlements remain unchanged.

20

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

Figure 1: Murray groundwater area, subareas and groundwater dependent ecosystems

Figure 2: Historical and projected rainfall in the Murray groundwater area

The Murray groundwater area is located approximately 50 km south of Perth and covers 1,050 km2.

Groundwater use supports local irrigated agriculture and horticulture; public open space and recreation in Mandurah, Ravenswood, Pinjarra and Waroona; and garden bores across urban areas and where scheme water is not connected.

The Murray groundwater area sustains valuable waterways, wetlands, and areas of bushland and Banksia woodlands. These groundwater dependent ecosystems are important to the communities in the Peel region and the continuing culture of the Bindjareb Noongar people.

Climate change has caused a significant reduction in rainfall in the Murray groundwater area. Average annual rainfall has declined by about 23 per cent since 1975 – from 1,036 mm/year. (1945–1974) to 800 mm/ year (1975–2020). As a result, rainfall recharge to the groundwater system is now much less than it was. Future climate projections for the area show average annual rainfall at 2030 could fall to 740 mm/year.

DWER’s Executive Director Science and Planning Jason Moynihan said adjustments to water availability based

Figure 3: Trends in the Superficial aquifer, Leederville aquifer and Cattamarra Coal Measures between 2013 and 2021

on up-to-date climate projections is essential to ensure we stay ahead of our changing climate and to protect our precious groundwater resources.

to meet future water demand through greater water use efficiency, trading, and in some cases alternative water sources.”

“The reduced allocation limits will help ensure sustainable groundwater use as our climate continues to become drier and hotter,” he said.

The Murray groundwater area allocation statement is part of the WA Government’s Kep Katitjin-Gabi Kaadadjan (Waterwise Perth action plan 2) to establish leading waterwise communities for Boorloo (Perth) and Bindjareb (Peel) by 2030.

“The new Murray groundwater area allocation statement signals the need

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

21

Turf: a natural sponge for carbon dioxide Article by Turf Australia Photosynthesis in turf Turf farming relies on the sun to generate plant growth through the process of photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is turf’s way of converting carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into plant material, using the sun’s energy in the process.

During photosynthesis in turf, light energy is captured and used to convert water, carbon dioxide, and minerals into oxygen and energy-rich organic compounds.

That’s right, the turf you see on turf farms, our lawns and on sporting fields is actively removing carbon dioxide from the earth and replacing it with oxygen, improving air quality for all of us.

How the turf industry stacks up A Hort Innovation strategic levy-funded project, An Environmental Assessment of the Australian Turf Growing Industry (TU16000), studied 30 different turf farms across the country to measure their carbon footprint.

22

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

Each grower studied demonstrated strong net sequestration, meaning every single turf farm was reducing the level of carbon in the atmosphere.

Naturally, with any form of farming there will be some offsets to carbon sequestration from activities like energy and fertiliser use, but the level of carbon the each square metre of turf removes is so high, that it more than makes up for it.

On average, each square metre of turf removes 2.5kg of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Even when offsetting energy use on farm, each turf farmer is still 1.6kg of carbon dioxide per square metre ahead!

But it’s not just photosynthesis Almost every other possible ground cover comes with some form of end-of-life waste disposal problems which contribute negatively to the environment. Artificial materials such as synthetic grass, concrete or asphalt will at some point in their life become worn, torn and unfit for use.

When this happens, the materials must be disposed of and as yet, a viable recycling stream is not yet in operation resulting in artificial materials being trucked around and disposed of in landfill.

Turf: a natural sponge for carbon dioxide Improving your carbon reduction Information for growers: Harvest under ideal conditions

By harvesting under ideal conditions, and reducing turf waste, growers will not only increase yields and their own bottom line, but sequestered carbon will improve.

Surplus turf will lose its sequestered carbon during the decomposition process.

Maximise sequestration capacity

A strong, healthy and dense plant will be able to sequester more carbon than a limp and lifeless plant.

It pays to have the right amount of fertilisers to promote healthy plant growth.

You can’t manage what you don’t measure

Efficient use of energy and all other farm inputs will reduce wastage and minimise direct and indirect greenhouse emissions.

The first step in energy efficiency is measuring the current usage of electricity by pumps and diesel in tractors as well as use of inputs like pesticides and fertiliser.

Once you have a baseline, you can aim to reduce.

Minimise losses of resources

Every time a resource like water, fertiliser or soil is lost it requires energy to get it back.

By diverting run-off into dams, covering soils and fertiliser with tarps and by using screens to prevent spray drift, you will be running a more energy efficient farm.

Turf Australia, PO Box 92, Richmond NSW 2753 T: (02) 4588 5613 E: admin@turfaustralia.com.au

31.08.20 © Turf Australia

Dr Lukasz Kotula with soil moisture and salinity monitoring equipment used in a research trial at the department’s South Perth facility.

Irrigation of crops with marginally saline water To assist in adapting to climate change, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is conducting as a high priority, research into the use of marginally saline water to irrigate horticultural crops.

While renewable good quality water resources are finite, there is increasing demand for water for domestic, industrial, recreational and agricultural use. Most of the high-quality water is already allocated to irrigators and other users in Western Australia (WA).

By the year 2050, it is estimated that an additional 250 gigalitres (GL) per year of water will be needed for WA’s urban areas1 and for the expansion of agriculture to feed a growing population. At the same time, climate change models predict that WA rainfall could decline by up to 14 per cent

24

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

decreasing both surface and ground water yields. 2 Increasing demands for water may necessitate the use of marginally saline water resources for irrigated agriculture. In WA, there are large volumes of marginally saline water that may be available for irrigation.

For example, in WA there are conservatively over 70 GL of moderate quality groundwater (1000 to 3000 milligrams/litre (mg/L) total dissolved salt, (TDS)3 as well as more than 20GL of unallocated water in Wellington Dam4 with a salinity of about 13002000 mg/L TDS (Harvey Water, personal communication).

The success of marginally saline water for irrigation will largely depend on the information available to growers on

the quality of water and management strategies that can be used, taking into consideration local conditions which include rainfall and climate, soil type, drainage, leaching to prevent excessive soil salinisation. Improper irrigation and drainage management will cause soluble salt to accumulate in the soil.

Salinity will decrease the soil osmotic potential making it more difficult for plants to take up water resulting in reduced shoot growth, smaller and fewer leaves, and fewer branches. The osmotic stress starts immediately after the salt concentrations in the root zone increases above threshold level (~2300 mg/L NaCl for most plants but less for sensitive crops)5. When dissolved salts in the soil solution enter the plant and accumulate excessively in plant tissues, ion toxicity can occur causing internal injury, further reducing plant

growth and ultimately both yield and quality. Soils are classified as saline when the electrical conductivity (EC), (EC of the saturated soil paste) is 4 decisiemens/metre (dS/m) (~2500 mg/L TDS) or higher, however, the severity of the salinity stress is dependent upon the composition of the saline solution, particularly Na+ and Cl- content, not just TDS. Saline water irrigation practises have been successfully used in many countries in the world, with tomatoes grown using water of about 3000 mg/L TDS in arid regions of northwest China and southern Italy, capsicums grown with 1800 mg/L TDS in irrigation water and muskmelon with 2500 mg/L TDS both in arid regions of Israel.6, 7, 8, 9 Strategies of using saline irrigation water include: • •

•

•

Proper crop selection (salt tolerant varieties) Choice of irrigation type, drip irrigation allows higher salinity water to be used than furrow, which causes accumulation of salt in seed beds or overhead irrigation, which causes direct foliar burn Water management, application of additional water to leach salt from the root zone Application of mulch to minimise evaporation from soil

Above: Tomato irrigated with saline water.

• • •

Soil dilution, altering fresh-saline water irrigation Network dilution, blending different quality waters Crop growth stage at which the saline water is applied.10, 11

The selection of appropriate strategies depends on the level of tolerance of various crops to salinity, soils type, water salinity levels, rainfall and climate.

The south-west of WA has several advantages of using marginally saline water for irrigation: •

Above: Rockmelon irrigated with saline water.

There are large areas of coarsetextured sandy soils where salt leaches more readily than on heavier soils

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

25

•

•

•

Annual winter rainfall would enhance leaching salt from the soil profile On most of the sandplain, there is no shallow or perched water table that would rise as a result of irrigation with marginally saline water and impact crop growth Sandy soils are generally not affected by soil sodicity that leads to poor soil structure.12

DPIRD has commenced trials into the use of marginally saline water on tomato and rockmelon at its South Perth research facility. The objectives of this work are to: •

•

•

Evaluate the effects of irrigation water salinity on yield and quality of tomatoes and rockmelons Identify threshold salinity levels that can be used to produce highquality vegetables Provide guidelines for growers on using saline water on sandy soils of the Swan Coastal Plain.

The first trial was conducted on tomato variety ‘Duncun’ and rockmelon variety ‘Hemi’ (varieties commonly grown in Perth region) on sandy soils at DPIRD’s South Perth facility from October 2022 to February 2023. Five saline irrigation water treatments with EC of 0.3 (nonsaline control, scheme water available on site), 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 dS/m (~200, 1600, 3200, 6000 and 8000 mg/L TDS, respectively) were used. The chemical composition of the saline irrigation

water was similar to that of the sea water with chloride accounting for about 60 per cent and sodium for about 30 per cent of total dissolved solids.

The saline irrigation was applied from tanks through drip lines covered with plastic mulch and at high frequency to maintain a high soil moisture level and facilitate leaching of salt from the root zone. Results showed that saline irrigation water with EC of 2.5 dS/m (1600 mg/L TDS) did not affect growth and marketable fruit yield in both tomato and rockmelon, as compared to plants irrigated with non-saline water. When EC of irrigation water increased to 5 dS/m, marketable fruit yield decreased to about 60 per cent of non-saline controls in tomato and about 75 per cent of non-saline controls in rockmelon.

However, irrigation with saline water increased total soluble solutes and acidity in tomato fruits indicating that reduction in marketable yield may have been possibly compensated by an enhanced quality of fruits (increased acidity and total dissolved solids may improve flavour of tomato fruits).

The trial will be replicated this year.

Soil moisture and salinity measuring equipment will also be installed on selected horticultural properties to assist growers to monitor salt impacts and understand which management practices reduce impacts to the crop.

For more information contact: Dr Lukasz Kotula, Research Scientist E: lukasz.kotula@dpird.wa.gov.au

References 1. Water for growth. Urban. Western Australia’s water supply and demand outlook to 2050. Department of Water.

June 2016.

2. Water yields and demands in south-west Western Australia. Summary of a report to the Australian Government from the CSIRO South-West Western Australia Sustainable Yields Project. CSIRO Water for a Healthy Country Flagship. December 2009.

3. Marsden Jacob Associates (2022).

State of water for irrigated agriculture in Western Australia. A Marsden Jacob Report prepared for DPIRD. 4. Infrastructure Australia. Project Evaluation Summary. Myalup-Wellington Water Project. 2017.

5. Munns R, Tester M. 2008. Salinity tolerance in plants. Annual Review of Plant Biology 59, 651-681.

6. Li D, Wan S, Li X, Kang Y, Han X. 2022.

Effect of water-salt regulation drip irrigation with saline water on tomato quality in an arid region. Agricultural Water Management 261, 107347.

7. Maggio A, De Pascale S, Angelino G, Ruggiero C, Barbieri G. 2004.

Physiological response of tomato to saline irrigation in long-term salinized soils. European Journal of Agronomy 21, 149–159.

8. Fallik E, Alkalai-Tuvia S, Chalupowicz D, Zaaroor-Presman M, Offenbach R, Cohen S, Tripler E. 2019. How water quality and quantity affect pepper yield and postharvest quality. Horticulturae 5, 4.

9. Mendlinger S, Fossen M. 1993. Flowering, vegetative growth, yield, and fruit quality in muskmelons under saline conditions.

Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science 118, 868-872.

10. Flowers TJ, Ragab R, Malash N, Abdel Gawad G, Cuartero J, Arslan A. 2005.

Sustainable strategies for irrigation in salt-prone Mediterranean: SALTMED. Agricultural Water Management 78, 3–14.

11. Malash N, Flowers TJ, Ragab R. 2005.

Effect of irrigation systems and water management practices using saline and non-saline water on tomato production.

Agricultural Water Management 78, 25–38 12. Lantzke N. 2022. Irrigation of crops with marginally saline water. Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Above: The salt stock solutions were prepared in 1000 L tanks and injected into the scheme water to raise the EC of irrigation water to the required values.

26

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

For range and quality, choose

Rodney Industries Footvalves Rodney Industries footvalves are designed to stand the test of time and ooer years of trouble-free service with their range of galvanized, stainless steel, and polyethylene construction and proven designs.

Bore Caps Available from 32mm through to 100mm, the Rodney Industries Bore Caps are the reliable chioce. Complete with dual lifting lugs for secure and safe removal.

Now available locally from

A Division of Vinidex Pty Ltd

19 Valente Close Chermside QLD 4032 Phone: Email: Web:

07 3624 0300 sales@rodneyind.com.au www.rodneyind.com.au

The myth of the ring-main being a fix-all The term “Ring-main” is often used in the irrigation industry as a description for a mainline system that is a “fix-all” to ensure a system is able to deliver adequate pressure/flow to all parts of the irrigation system. This is not true.

A properly sized and designed “single” mainline will do exactly the same job and is often a less expensive but just as effective option.

When sizing a mainline it is critically important to get the correct pressure and flow to the essential valve or valves, and this shall be achieved for the lowest capital cost (as it is considered if you have not provided the best-priced job, you probably won’t win the sale). The critical valves are generally the furthest or highest from and above the supply point, which in this example is the pump.

So, in short, you need to get water to the critical point at the correct flow and pressure for the lowest capital and operating price.

FIGURE 1

FIGURE 2

28

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

The operating cost in this example will be power consumption, and to keep that low we know that extra pressure = extra power = extra cost. Therefore the need to keep the pressure down low but still ensure the correct pressure at the prescribed flow at the critical point. The system capacity (system design flow) requirement is determined by the type of crop, area or crop, daily irrigation time, climatic conditions (region), management choices, etc. That sets the flow we need, which sets the mainline and pumping system capacity. The example shown demonstrates that a single mainline performs better than a ring-main.

In the example below, a farmer with a 10ha paddock with dimensions of 600m x 166m has a water supply point and preferred sprinkler line direction are as drawn. There is no elevation change and the pump duty point is calculated assuming the pumped water level is 20m below ground level

from the bore. The farmer wants to have the design capacity to apply 12mm of irrigated water over 8-9 hours of pumping time per day. System flow capacity will calculate to be 150m3/hr.

In the design below we will run 3 valves together, and the farmer wants to have flexibility, ie, to be able to group the valves randomly and must be able to run the 3 furthest valves grouped together. Mainline maximum flow velocity shall be 1.5m/s and be kept below 1% friction loss. The irrigation designer sizes the mainline pipe and has two choices, either a ring-main in 150mm NB (Fig. 1 below) to split the flow, or a single mainline down each leg which will need to be 200mm NB, reducing to 150mm for the last section (Fig 2 below).

The designer completes the two layouts and runs calculations and completes a bill of materials and costing. The difference between the two layouts is:

•

Figure 2, with the 200mm non-ringmain mainline has 300 meters less mainline than the 150mm ringmain option.

•

Figure 2 mainline is more expensive for material cost, but cheaper on installation, with an overall slight price reduction over the150mm ringmain option.

•

Pump duty point for the 150mm ringmain option is 156m3/hr @ 66m head, and for the 200mm nonringmain it is 156m3/hr @ 64m head, leading to a 3.2% energy saving. That may seem small, but assuming the system runs for 2,000 hours per year, absorbing nominal 38kw at $0.37/kw per hour that represents $28,120 costs per year. 3.2% of costs results in the 200mm nonringmain being $900 per year less expensive to operate.

GLOBAL IRRIGATION & CLIMATE LEADER

It is not possible to view a project and say “a ringmain is the way to go” off the cuff without completing a design and considering mainline options. The designer needs to complete the sprinkler and lateral layout and then add the mainline options, completing an operating head calculation for each mainline being considered, along with an installed price for each option. That way the capital and operating cost of each option can be calculated accurately rather than just a random statement “ A ringmain is the way to go”.

Often that is not the case.

In some larger systems, particularly golf courses, a combination of both ringmain and single main is the outcome. There are also potential operational problems with a ringmain system which are easily overlooked. One problem being flushing a mainline which is ringed can be difficult and flush points and isolation valves must be placed strategically to enable this to be done properly. The operator must understand system dynamics to get the procedure correct. If fertiliser is to be injected, the operator needs to be aware of the direct route and flow timing to ensure the fertilised water arrives at the respective valve at the correct concentration and time. This is usually not possible with a ringmain because water will always take the path of least resistance and if there is a long section of the main where water is moving slowly in the direction of the nominated valve, and it is quite possible that the fertilised water in the ringmain system won’t reach the target valve before that valve shuts off.

Rivulis is a global micro irrigation leader focused on the transformation of agricultural irrigation to address global water and food security. As industry pioneers and veterans, we have the expertise and rich history of innovating and deploying micro irrigation solutions and digital farming services.

Rivulis is the result of the merger of five leading micro irrigation players:

In summary, ringmains are sometimes an economically viable option, and sometimes too expensive. Either way, a properly sized main of either type will deliver the same flow and pressure to the target valve.

To find out more visit rivulis.com

GROW BEYOND

Belmont Forum teams up with tenants to save water Water Corporation has teamed up with local businesses to share how to manage water consumption and lower costs. Learn from industry experience and identify saving opportunities you can implement in your operations.

Water consumption on the rise Belmont’s water consumption was going to be impacted by a major refurbishment and the creation of a new fresh food dining precinct. The number of tenants would increase across the shopping centre, as well as water use.

Measuring the amount of water used by retail tenants is considered to be essential in managing a commercial building sustainably. To minimise the impacts of increased water usage we needed to understand how much water

30

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

retail tenants were consuming and whether any water efficiency measures could be achieved.

Key achievements By providing tenants with greater visibility of their own water use and working with them on the best water saving solutions we saved almost 10% of our water use in 2021/22.

“We review the sub-meter readings for the centre every month, which in conjunction with Belmont Forum's service provider allows us to highlight and review any abnormal usage. This allows us to identify any possible leakages and also understand trends from particular retailers.” Jamie Wilmot, Head of Operations, Belmont Forum Shopping Centre

How we did it We took a proactive approach to encourage efficient water use by our tenants. This involved monitoring the consumption of retailers to identify tenants using the most water. Those tenants could then compare their use with other similar businesses to identify water saving opportunities.

Installing meters for tenants To monitor use we‘ve installed individual meters on most of our retail tenancies. Meter readings are carried out monthly and analysed to identify any abnormal increase in water usage that may be due to a leak.

We met with tenants face to face as much as possible to review their water consumption together, discuss trends and find ways to help them reduce their water use.

As a standard measure, all new tenants are required to have a meter installed to record their individual water use.

Tenant inspections Our plumbing and maintenance contractors carry out regular inspections.

This includes inspecting toilets, fixtures and equipment within a tenancy space to ensure it’s in good working order. Cooling towers and evaporative cooling systems are also regularly checked for any leaks and overflows.

“By providing tenants with greater visibility of their own water use and working with them on the best water saving solutions we saved almost 10% of our water use in 2021/22.”

To assist our tenants we provide water saving recommendations as needed.

Some examples include: •

• • •

• • •

Modifying urinal fixtures to reduce flow rates or upgrade to waterless models Replacing inefficient toilets with 4 star rated WELS models Updating older taps with WELS rated tapware Encouraging staff to report any leaks or faulty equipment that may waste water Using waterless or air cooled woks Avoid using hoses for cleaning as much as possible Water efficient dishwashers or glasswashers

What we’re doing now

Water Corp 2011 Waterwise Home – Ben Nicolson checking a water meter

By giving our tenants greater visibility of their consumption and supporting them in their water management, tenants can put water efficiency measures in place and monitor their water savings.

We continue to install meters for all new tenants and those undergoing a refit.

We’re also looking at extending this to retailers’ storage areas to capture water usage for specialised equipment such as ice makers.

Longer term, we plan to install data logging devices on all meters, which will enable water use data to be monitored remotely and accessible via our building management system. This will make leak detection much easier and faster to resolve.

To learn more about how businesses are effectively managing water consumption and lowering costs, please visit watercorporation.com.au/Waterwise

Carnarvon Irrigation District along the lower Gascoyne River

Improving water management in Carnarvon through innovation The Carnarvon horticultural precinct is situated along the Gascoyne River, about 900 kilometres north of Perth.

The Carnarvon horticultural industry produces fruit and vegetables valued at around $110 million per year. It supplies domestic and export markets and is the main supplier of winter vegetables to the Perth markets. Of note is the intensity of the Carnarvon horticultural operations – about 1,600 hectares of land is in use (less than 3.5 per cent of the Western Australia’s horticultural land), yet it produces 8 per cent of the $1.49 billion wholesale value of the state’s horticultural product.

The use of local groundwater from the Lower Gascoyne alluvial aquifer sustains the water supply for this important horticultural area. Irrigators abstract water from the aquifer under water licences issued by the Department of Water

32

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

and Environmental Regulation (department) under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 (WA).

The Carnarvon irrigation water supply system, consists of 40 per cent of water supplied by growers themselves from an area known as “subarea A” with the remainder supplied from water resources further upstream under the Gascoyne Water Cooperative irrigation scheme. Rainfall recharge to the aquifer is by river flow events caused by cyclones and inland rainfall, which can be highly seasonally variable.

The department recognises the importance of ensuring long-term supply security to meet high demand from subarea A and to manage any supply uncertainty from seasonal risks.

Intensive monitoring, management and licence compliance programs in subarea A support the department’s

Department staff taking measurements in the Carnarvon Irrigation District

focus on ongoing protection and sustainable use of groundwater for the community, while meeting environmental and cultural water needs.

Metering infrastructure and technology to meet future needs The department owns, operates and maintains more than 200 water meters for groundwater and surface water licences within subarea A. The department’s Regional Delivery team reviewed the current water metering system with the intention to improve and modernise its capability. The review considered: •

• Produce grown in Carnarvon Irrigation District

the existing, ageing meters and the most effective options to replace and upgrade meters (including to reduce blockages) opportunities to use proven and readily available technology to: o improve water quality monitoring and data by installing conductivity measurement devices at each metering point (currently manually collected on a quarterly or as required basis) o better communicate real-time metering and conductivity data to the department’s existing telemetry and data server by installing remote telemetry at each metering point o automate the distribution of data from the central server to end user programs and groups within the department o provide licensees with access to daily data related to their licences to enable them to effectively manage water use.

As a result of the review, the department developed the Carnarvon Telemetry, Conductivity and Meter Installation Project. The project aims to be an improved, fit-for-purpose, metering, telemetry and conductivity data collection and distribution system for Carnarvon’s irrigation district.

State Government approved the initial funding for replacing and upgrading all of the water meters in subarea A. Works are planned to start in the second half of 2023.

The installation of new meters will: • improve the reliability of data by replacing ageing meters • improve compliance with meter calibration requirements • reduce the risk of meter blockages or flow restriction from debris or roots.

The final stage of the project involves connection of upgraded meters to a telemetry system and the department is currently identifying options to enable this program of work to be carried out in 2024 and 2025.

Project delivery and engagement The department has begun engaging stakeholders on the project to support the long-term benefits of sustainable groundwater management in subarea A, an essential water supply for the Carnarvon irrigation district.

Various sections of the department are involved in the project to ensure effective delivery of the data for broad use across the department to ensure seamless integration with existing systems and services.

The Yinggarda people are the Traditional Owners of the Country where the project is being conducted. The department has advised the Yinggarda Aboriginal Corporation of the project and its long-term benefits for managing the lower Gascoyne River, groundwater resources and dependent natural systems and will continue engaging with the Traditional Owners on the project and the ongoing management of water resources in the lower Gascoyne River.

The department have also informed individual licensees advising of the project, delivery timeframes and expected short-term disruptions to their water supply for the various stages of implementation. Additional one-to-one engagement with landowners is also proposed leading up to proposed on-ground works.

This is an exciting initiative for the Carnarvon horticultural district and groundwater management systems in the lower Gascoyne River. For further information email: midwestgascoyne@dwer.wa.gov.au or phone (08) 9965 7400.

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

33

Help for your small business in WA If you have a small business in Western Australia, you can turn to the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) for a range of practical, affordable business support and advice.

The SBDC is a WA Government agency dedicated to supporting WA small businesses to start, grow and thrive through a range of services including: •

•

34

•

A free business licence finder that identifies the licences, registrations and codes of practice required to operate a specific business.

•

A specialist commercial tenancy advisory service for guidance and information regarding commercial lease agreements.

•

A low-cost dispute resolution service to assist with resolving business-to-business and business-to-government disputes.

A free business advisory service, providing experienced, personalised advice to small business owners.

•

Practical and affordable business skills workshops, on a wide range of topics

Free online resources such as downloadable business and marketing plan templates.

•

Free online networking with other WA small businesses via

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

a private Facebook group “I’m a small business owner in Western Australia”.

•

The latest updates and advice for Western Australian small business owners via their blogs and social platforms.

•

Support throughout regional Western Australia through the Business Local network.

•

A range of work to improve the operating environment for small businesses through the Small Business Commissioner

Learn more about how the SBDC can help your small business at www. smallbusiness.wa.gov.au

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS 5. Conference & Tradeshow Discounts Member discounts on attending and exhibiting at the Irrigation Australia Biennial International Conference & Exhibition.

1.

Irrigation Journal Copies Distributed quarterly in digital format, Irrigation Australia’s signature publication, the Journal, contains valuable industry information about new projects, technologies and techniques for Agriculture, Landscape & Domestic Irrigation.

6. Members Only Portal Gain access to the members only portal on the Irrigation Australia website. Through the portal you can manage your Irrigation Australia membership, register your staff/employees for training, access members only documents, presentation and other materials.

7.

2. Access to the National Irrigation Directory The only national and comprehensive digital directory where you can find details about irrigation retail businesses, manufacturers, installers, contractors, certified professionals.

3. Training Discounts Receive significant member discounts on nationally accredited irrigation training and qualifications delivered by Irrigation Australia in city and regional areas and on line virtually.

4. Certification Discounts Receive significant member discounts on the joining fee and renewal fee to the Certification Program administered by Irrigation Australia.

Certification is a national program of industry recognition. Certification adds instant credibility with customers, increases job opportunities and demonstrates your commitment to efficient water management. Visit our website to learn more www.irrigationaustralia.com.au

To Become a Member of Irrigation Australia

11. International Representation Be part of the global irrigation community and gain access to international contacts via the Irrigation membership of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID).

12. Discounts on Waterwise endorsement Receive significant member discounts on the Waterwise endorsement programs, relevant for domestic irrigation contractors, installers, landscapers and retailers.

Benefit from Waterwise marketing and merchandise to promote yourself as a Waterwise irrigation professional to the community.

See www.waterwiseprograms.com.au for more information.

Access to eKnowledge Irrigation Australia eKnowledge repository has significant resources of technical papers, conference papers, Irrigation Journals and FAQ’s available only for Members.

8. Discounts on Publications and Merchandise Irrigation Australia offers a wide range of books, eBooks and other merchandise through its online store. Members receive significant discounts on materials.

9. Invitations to Regional Meetings & Events Irrigation Australia hosts a number of regional meetings, events and site visits across Australia. This is a great opportunity for members and industry colleagues to come together to discuss new challenges, technologies and network.

Additional Membership Benefits (EXCLUDES PRIMARY PRODUCERS, INDIVIDUALS & RETIRED MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY) 13. Free Listing in the online National Irrigation Directory List your business for free with digital copies reaching the wider irrigation industry which attracts significant page views every month 14. Free Online Job Listing List your upcoming job vacancies on Irrigation Australia’s online job board which attracts significant targeted views every month.

15. Free Listing on Irrigation Australia’s Website List your business on Irrigation Australia’s Website Directory “Find an Irrigation Specialist” on the front page of our website www.irrigationaustralia.com.au

10. Monthly Electronic E-News Receive our monthly Irrigation E-News with the latest information on upcoming training, events as well as new products, information and industry news.

16. Advertisement Discounts on Irrigation Australia Publications Receive significant discounts on advertising in the Irrigation Journal. The Irrigation Journal is distributed each quarter to all members and industry contacts

Join online by visiting www.irrigationaustralia.com.au or contact us at 1300 949 891 or email info@irrigation.org.au

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA ON:

T 1300 949 891 | E info@irrigation.org.au | W www.irrigationaustralia.com.au | QLD: Unit 11/58 Metroplex Avenue, Murarrie, QLD 4172 | PO Box 13, Cannon Hill QLD 4170 WA: First Floor, Unit 2, 26 Hammond Road, Cockburn Central WA 6164 | PO Box 3401, Success WA 6964

HAVE YOU VISITED THE WA WATERWISE PROGRAMS WEBSITE? www.waterwiseprograms.com.au The Waterwise Garden Irrigator Program is a joint initiative of the WA Region of Irrigation Australia and Water Corporation, with a goal of optimising water-use efficiency of domestic irrigation systems in Western Australia. Endorsed Waterwise Garden Irrigators are fully trained in water efficient practices and can design, install, repair and maintain home garden irrigation systems.

WATERWISE GARDEN IRRIGATORS AAA Irrigation

Josh's Lawn & Garden Service

Rob’s Retic and Lawn

Adonis Gardening & Irrigation

Landscape Australia Construction

Ryan Daly

Advantage Bores & Reticulation Services

Kinetic Landscaping

SK Retic

Alessio’s Gardens

KRH Irrigation

Sodexo

Allwest Bores & Reticulation

Landscape Elements Pty Ltd

Softscapes & Reticulation Pty Ltd

Aqueduct Irrigation Services

LD TOTAL

Sprinkler Fixers

AR Landscapes

Lime Gardens

Summer Retic NEW

Backyard Creations

Living Eden Property Maintenance

Superior Landscaping & Reticulation

Beyond Reticulation

Luke's Landscaping Co

BHG Garden Service

Matt Duncan Reticulation & Landscaping

Bowie Developments

Midwest Turf Supplies

The Retic Chick NEW

Bowie Irrigation

Mr Retic

The Retic Guy

Bradkaz Irrigation

Newground Water Services

The Retic & Landscape Shop

Brighton Reticulation

Northend Reticulation & Turf

The Watershed Water Systems Midland

Brookwell Irrigation

Nutrien Water – Head Office

Think Water Dunsborough

Candid Reticulation Services

Oasis Reticulation

Think Water Geraldton

CHATT Services

Olive Branch Landscapes

Think Water Perth

Civic Reticulation

One Two Tree Irrigation & Landscaping

Tidy Gardens Australia

Coast to Coast Irrigation

Outdoor Garden Services

Tim Davies Landscaping NEW

Cockburn Property Maintenance

OZ Commercial Maintenance Services

Tip Top Reticulation

Peel Scape Solutions

Top Dog Landscaping and Reticulation

Perdita Reticulation & Garden Solutions

Triton Electrical Contractors NEW

Perth Irrigators

Turfed Out

Perth Lawns and Retic

Ultimate Blue Pty Ltd

Perth Retic Repair

Under Pressure Retic

Pimp My Yard

Urban Reticulation

Plantech Grounds Maintenance

VIP Home Services

Portworks

Wanda’s Gardening & Landscaping

Pretty Blooming Good

WaterLink

PTC Irrigation

Water Smart Services Pty Ltd

Pumps N Pipes Supplies

Water Well Reticulation

Purely Irrigation

Waterwise Landscaping

Rain Maker Irrigation Services

Westcoast Reticulation Services

Rapid Reticulation Remedies

Western Irrigation

Renoscape

Wet Frog Retic

Repair Your Retic

WF Landscape Industries Pty Ltd

Retic Doctor

Wittens Irrigation & Design

Retic Express

Yurra Pty Ltd

Country Landscaping & Irrigation CS Reticulation Donewell Contracting Dynamic Property Solutions Earlybird Landscaping Earth & Water Pty Ltd Evergrow Gardenscapes Fastlane Maintenance First Element Irrigation Fluid Irrigation Garden Solutions Greenworx Groundskeeper Garden Services Growing Assets Handy Fixers Property Maintenance HomeCare Reticulation Instant Gardens Irriscape Reticulation & Landscaping Jim's Mowing Wilson North Joel Irrigation & Landscaping

Retic Mate Reticulation Pro

NEW

The Garden Fixer

NEW

NEW

The Greenscape Collective

TLC Services Perth

The website features an extensive and up-to-date business directory where the community can search for their local Waterwise members, based on their location. Head to the search directory at www. waterwiseprograms.com.au for members’ contact details, or if you’d like information on how to become an endorsed Waterwise business.

With an increasing number of DIY enthusiasts installing and maintaining their own irrigation systems, the Waterwise Irrigation Design Shop Program was developed to raise the standard of irrigation advice and design services offered by staff at counter level of specialist irrigation retailers. Endorsed staff have the knowledge and skills to provide their customers with waterwise advice, products and services.

Several Waterwise Garden Irrigators and Design Shops were randomly selected for audit in the 2021/22 period. Successfully audited businesses are acknowledged with this customised logo.

WATERWISE IRRIGATION DESIGN SHOPS Controlled Irrigation Supplies - Joondalup

Nutrien Water - Myaree

The Watershed Water Systems - Midland

Joel Irrigation & LHP Landscaping

Nutrien Water - Neerabup

The Watershed Water Systems - Morley

Nutrien Water - Balcatta

Nutrien Water - Osborne Park

The Watershed Water Systems - Subiaco

Nutrien Water - Bibra Lake

Nutrien Water - Rockingham

Think Water Broome

Nutrien Water - Byford

Peel H20 Solutions - Mandurah

Think Water Dunsborough

Nutrien Water - Canning Vale

Pumps ‘n Pipes - Mandurah

Think Water Geraldton

Nutrien Water - Greenwood

Rainscape Waterwise Solutions - Bibra Lake

Think Water Perth

Nutrien Water - Joondalup Nutrien Water - Malaga Nutrien Water - Mandurah Nutrien Water - Midvale

The Retic & Landscape Shop - Southern River The Watershed Water Systems Cockburn

WA Reticulation Supplies - Armadale WA Reticulation Supplies - Midland WA Reticulation Supplies - Rockingham Western Irrigation - Greenwood

SOUTH WEST WATERWISE PROGRAMS Irrigation Australia has recently launched the Waterwise Irrigation Programs in the South West region of WA, with the support of local water utilities; Busselton Water and Aqwest.

WATERWISE IRRIGATION DESIGN SHOPS

WATERWISE GARDEN IRRIGATORS ARB Landscaping & Fencing

LD TOTAL

Country Water Solutions – Bunbury

Country Landscaping & Irrigation

Nutrien Water - Busselton

Nutrien Water – Bunbury

Fastlane Maintenance

Russell’s Retic

Nutrien Water – Busselton

Fergies Total Lawn Care

Summer Retic

NEW

The Overflow | Autumn 2023

37

be part of the

Waterwise

industry initiatives exclusive to Waterwise members WEATHER BASED IRRIGATION REBATE

Water Corporation is offering residential customers in Perth and Peel a rebate of up to $300 towards the purchase and professional set-up of eligible weather based irrigation products.

Closing date: 31st May 2023 Or until all available allocations are exhausted

Eligible Products HC, PRO-HC, HPC, HCC X2 with WAND WAND Solar Sync

B-Hyve B-Hyve Pro Smart Series

ESP-RZXe, Me3, TM2 with LNK/LNK2

Rebate

$300 P

Up to

Supply | Installation

er H

d l o ouseh

2,000 available rebates

LNK or LNK2

Learn More by visiting www.waterwiseprograms.com.au/western-australia/initiatives/

Water Update Water Usage Metro Region https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Our-water/ Rainfall-and-dams/Water-use

Yearly Streamflow https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Our-water/ Rainfall-and-dams/Streamflow

Perth Rainfall Comparison https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Our-water/ Rainfall-and-dams/Rainfall

Supplied by the Water Corporation Current graphs can be found at www.watercorporation.com.au