It’s not quite Farmer Wants a Wife, but it’s just as important! West Gippsland Catchment Management is on the hunt for irrigators to join us in ensuring Gippsland irrigation practices are world class.  

The Lake Wellington Irrigator Reference Group meets four times a year to have robust conversations around irrigation and explore opportunities to improve water use efficiencies and deliver cutting edge change on the ground.   

“The current group has left a fantastic legacy for the region and now it’s time to welcome some new voices to the conversation,” said Sustainable Irrigation Project Officer with the CMA, Bonnie Dawson. 

Group members play a leading role in supporting the Sustainable Irrigation Program in Gippsland.  For the past 25 years, the successful program has worked to reduce the environmental impact of irrigation and increase efficiencies and productivity for busy farmers. As the program expands beyond the Macalister Irrigation District for the first time, members will help deliver the latest round of extension and incentive programs in their local community. 

“With more farmers set to benefit from our activities, we’re keen for irrigators across the catchment to get involved, bring their industry expertise to the table and help us drive the program into the future. Farmers along the Latrobe River, producers in Thorpdale and surrounds and all irrigators across the Lake Wellington Catchment are encouraged to apply,” said Bonnie. 

Supported by staff from both the CMA and Agriculture Victoria, members will be remunerated for their valued time and input. 

Current member Rod Warren said being involved in the group has helped him make decisions about upgrading infrastructure on his dairy farm in Winnindoo.  “Being part of the reference group has been a rewarding experience. A highlight for me was being involved in the irrigation demonstration trials, which really got people thinking about ways they can improve efficiencies on their own farm. I would strongly encourage anyone thinking about joining the reference group to give it a go,” said Rod. 

Agronomist and fellow member Liz Semmens agrees. “It’s been an amazing experience to be able to participate in the group. I’ve enjoyed seeing the younger members come through and challenge the ‘norms’ with more AgTech and progress to stay up to date with world best practice. There has also been significant growth toward collaboration between agencies and the opportunity to get a seat at the table is one I am grateful for.” 

For more information, contact Bonnie Dawson from the CMA for an initial conversation at bonnied@wgcma.vic.gov.au or call 0448 037 461. 

Expressions of interest close on Friday, 6 June 2025.   

This program is a part of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action’s Sustainable Irrigation Program (SIP), implemented in Gippsland by Agriculture Victoria and the WGCMA. 

West Gippsland CMA is responsible for over 40,000 kilometres of designated waterways across the region and delivers programs for healthy and resilient catchments. All these waterways flow to the Victorian coast, discharging through the Gippsland Lakes, or directly into Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean. 

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