National Concrete Solutions staff apply a crystalline coating to extend the life of the Edward River Escape structure.
Murray Irrigation has completed the bulk of its 2026 Winter Works Program, delivering approximately $10 million worth of maintenance and capital upgrades aimed at strengthening the region's irrigation network and extending the life of key water delivery assets.
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Since May, Murray Irrigation staff and contractors have logged thousands of hours across the company's extensive network, carrying out a wide range of works designed to improve system reliability and efficiency.
Among the most significant projects was major concrete remediation and life-extension work on the Edward River Escape outfall, a structure more than 70 years old.
The project marks the first full concrete remediation undertaken by Murray Irrigation at the site since the outfall officially opened in 1955.
Another major focus has been the commencement of a two-year flood resilience program.
The company is investing more than $5 million into the initiative, which targets six sites between Wakool and Moulamein.
The works stem from recommendations identified in Murray Irrigation's 2022 Flood Review and are designed to improve the network's resilience during future flood events.
The 2026 Winter Works Program included approximately 3500 work orders, 76 structural inspections and 122 concrete remediation projects on regulators and offtakes.
Crews also completed erosion control works at 130 sites, reconstructed 6.9km of channels and undertook 24 civil upgrade projects.
In addition, 289km of channels were desilted, 192 slip meter outlets serviced and 1334 regulators and offtakes maintained.
Pumping concrete into the Edward River Escape outfall.
Aquatic weed treatment was also carried out along 64km of waterways.
Murray Irrigation chief operating officer Scott Barlow thanked staff and contractors for their efforts in delivering the extensive program.
“Delivering a works program of this magnitude requires teamwork, skill and an absolute commitment to safety,” Mr Barlow said.
“While we experienced a number of delays due to wet weather, particularly with the flood works projects, we are pleased that we were able to bring the system back online in most areas so customers were able to take advantage of the recent Supplementary Water Event that occurred.
“Thank you to all our staff and contracting partners on a job well done.
“We also extend our appreciation to our customers for their patience and support during the delivery of this essential infrastructure program.”
Murray Irrigation's annual Winter Works Program plays a critical role in maintaining the company's irrigation network, which consists of more than $1 billion in assets and supplies water to agricultural enterprises across the region.
The ongoing investment is aimed at ensuring the system continues to deliver water reliably and efficiently for generations to come.
