Each year, as part of its ongoing three-year planned maintenance program, the company drains one third of its vast water delivery network in order to undertake important maintenance and improvement works on critical irrigation infrastructure across its channel system.
This activity takes place between May and August.
This year's comprehensive program includes erosion control works, channel bank repairs, regulator servicing, slip meter cleaning, gear box replacements, channel desilting, and other general maintenance.
Major projects scheduled for this period include concrete remediation works at the Edward River Escape, and the start of a two-year flood resilience works program in the Wakool area that comes in response to findings from Murray Irrigation's 2022 Flood Review.
The Mulwala Canal is also being drained again this year to enable the company to carry out inspections, preventative maintenance and upgrade works on the 17 regulators that control the flow of water in this iconic waterway which is the backbone of the Murray Irrigation water delivery system.
CEO Ron McCalman said Murray Irrigation's Winter Works program is critical to prolonging the life of the company's $1 billion worth of assets, and to ensuring its water delivery service operates reliably and efficiently for customers throughout the irrigation season.
"As we move into the Winter Works period, and with the current dry weather, we understand that demand for water during winter is likely to be high," Mr McCalman said.
"Murray Irrigation is focused on completing this essential works program on time and within budget, while continuing to provide customers with access to water delivery wherever possible."
The company has released guaranteed water delivery dates and water availability details for the Winter Works period on its website - www.murrayirrigation.com.au/customers/water-delivery.
Access to water, including stock and domestic water, after these dates is subject to levels available in channels.
Murray Irrigation will continue to keep customers updated on water availability as the program progresses.
The program itself will generate an increase in heavy machinery activity and vehicle movements across the company's service area over the coming weeks and months, particularly near channels where works are planned.
Safety remains a key focus for the business.
"Murray Irrigation is committed to the safety, health and wellbeing of our staff, contractors, customers and the broader community," Mr McCalman said.
"Performing our Winter Works safely is our highest aim."
If you come across a Murray Irrigation work site, please make sure you:
• Slow down
• Keep a look out for traffic signage
• Adhere to changed road conditions
“Please remember that even if you can't see our work crews, it doesn't mean they are not there,” Mr McCalman said.
If you wish to report a safety issue, or have questions about this year's Winter Works program, contact Murray Irrigation on 1300 138 265 or email customersupport@murrayirrigation.com.au.
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