Tasmanian Irrigation is one of Tasmania’s true success stories.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jo Palmer, said this afternoon’s Government Business Enterprises will set the record straight and highlight Tasmanian Irrigation’s significant achievements this year.
This year alone:
- Don Irrigation Scheme delivered its first water to farmers;
- Work is underway on the 22,500 megalitre Northern Midlands Scheme, and the 9,200 megalitre extension to the existing Sassafras Wesley Vale Scheme;
- The Greater South East Irrigation Scheme has been redesigned to meet demand and is now likely to be an 18,600 megalitre scheme;
- The Greater Meander Irrigation Scheme is growing;
- Planning for the Tamar Irrigation Scheme is progressing; and
- A preferred option design has been developed for the Southern Midlands Irrigation Scheme.
“Over the past 10 years, there has been an expansion of berry, wine grape and horticulture production and commencement of hemp and various seed crops.”
“High surety Irrigation water through Tasmanian Irrigation schemes gives landowners the confidence to invest, diversify and employ more people. It’s a game changer for our agricultural industry,” Minister Palmer said.
Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association President Ian Sauer said Tasmanian Irrigation provides a huge social and economic benefit for farmers and rural and regional communities.
“It will support Tasmania to reach the goal of growing the farmgate value of agriculture,” Mr Sauer said.
The Rockliff Liberal Government’s expansions are seeing the development of new industries across the state.
“By 2030, Tasmanian Irrigation expects to manage a portfolio worth $900 million that is capable of delivering 236,000 megalitres of water via 1,786km of pipeline, 49 pump stations, 22 dams and three power stations,” Minister Palmer said.
The organisation is playing a key role in ensuring the Rockliff Liberal Government achieves its ambitious target of increasing the value of the agricultural industry to $10 billion a year by 2050.
