That’s the main message the Ricegrowers Association of Australia wants to resonate following National Water Week last week.
The RGA says sustainable water management cannot come at the expense of the very people who rely on water to grow food and sustain regional Australia while also working to improve on farm ecology and riparian lands.
Executive director Perin Davey explained that for rice growers and irrigation communities, water is far more than a resource.
She said it is “the foundation of the environment in which we live, we farm, and where our regional economies and communities call home”.
“Every crop grown, every local business supported, and every family sustained depends on decisions being made today about how water is managed for tomorrow."
“Now more than ever, it is important that communities and irrigators to stand together, make their voices heard and support the organisations fighting to secure a productive future for our industry.
“Water policy must recognise that healthy rivers and strong regional communities go hand in hand.
“Our growers are not asking for special treatment. They are asking for common sense, balance and recognition of the essential role irrigation plays in feeding Australia and supporting regional communities.”
National Water Week has been celebrated across Australia since 1995, encouraging communities to recognise the importance of water in our everyday lives and the need for its sustainable management.
It is a time to reflect on the role water plays in supporting our environment, our food and fibre production, our economy and the communities that depend on it.
For irrigation regions like the Riverina, National Water Week is also a reminder that securing a balanced and sustainable water future is essential to keeping regional communities strong.
This year, many growers and the communities they support enter National Water Week facing significant uncertainty with the Water Act and the Basin Plan under review.
The RGA continues to work alongside industry organisations, community leaders and members to advocate for fair, balanced and evidence-based water policy.
“While we want a healthy environment, we believe you can have that with sustainable farming,” Ms Davey said.
“The RGA will continue to stand up for the people who produce food and fibre, support regional jobs and contribute to Australia's prosperity.”
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