Making every drop count: how irrigation upgrades are transforming local farms

The $3 million irrigation infrastructure upgrade program, delivered in partnership between the Australian Government, through the National Water Grid Fund, the South Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) and the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board, was designed to address these challenges. The project upgraded off-farm infrastructure between Mannum and Wellington, covering hundreds of hectares of productive land and helping farmers better manage water for their operations.

Tackling the challenges

For many landholders, water delivery was a constant source of frustration. Corey Jones, who has been farming along the river flats since 2011, recalls the uncertainty of past irrigation.

“As a kid, I remember Dad couldn’t get water through our meter when the river was low. Everything was just so uncertain”

Trent Mueller, a dairy farmer nearby, experienced similar issues with his system.

“We had an old system that was a bit unreliable and giving us a few headaches. There was an air leak in our suction line that caused constant problems with the pump. It’s been a headache for 20 years.”

Upgrades that make a difference

The project replaced and modernised pipes and pumps, improving efficiency and reliability for local landholders. 

Corey explained the practical benefits.

“The pipeline and pump system gave me confidence for the future. It’s eliminated all the frustrating things about open channels – leaks, uneven water, paddocks staying wet for days. It just makes life a lot easier.”

Trent adds “The new pipe has extended our suction line further into the river, so we can cater for changes in river heights. Now, whether the river low or high, we know we’ll have access to water. It's exactly what it’s supposed to do.”

On-ground impact

The upgrades have delivered clear benefits:

Time and efficiency gains

Corey says, “I can get my workers to turn the water on before milking and rely on them to manage irrigation. It’s a lot simpler now.” Trent notes, “We’ve noticed a drop in power use because the pump can run more efficiently. Reliability has improved, and we don’t have to chase problems constantly.” 

Enhanced productivity

“Paddocks, especially down the river end, are growing better because they’re not staying wet from old leaks,” Corey adds.

Both landholders emphasise the confidence that comes with knowing their systems work reliably. 

Looking ahead

Both Corey and Trent are enthusiastic about potential future funding rounds. 

“I’d definitely be interested if another round comes around,” Corey says. “There’s always more ways to improve things, and this program accelerated a lot of plans for my farm that I might never have been able to do on my own.”

“Absolutely,” Trent adds. “We’ve got more development planned for our irrigation system, so if there’s an opportunity to participate again, we’d be very interested.”

They encourage other landholders to consider applying as well. 

“Think about your system, identify areas that need development, research what you need, and make sure you get your application in,” Trent advises. “It’s been a huge assistance to improve efficiency.”