Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) has begun installation of two pump stations at Waranga Basin, near Rushworth in the State's north, that will allow irrigators on the Goulburn system to access an additional 86,000 megalitres of much-needed water.
G-MW Managing Director, David Stewart said during extreme dry conditions the pumps allowed access to water through the Basin's two channel outlets that cannot be released by gravity.
"The project is a major undertaking and the water will support irrigation customers who are trying to manage though drought conditions," Mr Stewart said.
"Our staff have worked closely with Water Services Committees to provide as much water as possible for our customers,"
"The project allows G-MW to access 86,000 megalitres of water and underwrites 7% of the Goulburn system allocation, which currently stands at 29%,"
"Our employees and contractors will be working hard over the next month to get this large scale project running on time with the pumps currently scheduled to begin in March, depending on inflows and customer demand,"
The two pump stations will provide the necessary capacity to pump 86,000 megalitres by the end of the Goulburn system irrigation season on 15th May 2009.
The additional supplies are already factored into the Goulburn system allocation.
"The 15 pumps, each weighing more than 3.5 tonnes and 13 metres in length, represent the largest pumping station in Victoria with capacity to pump up to 1,950 megalitres a day."
G-MW manages water storage, delivery and drainage systems involving 70% of Victoria's stored water. We harvest, store and deliver water, ensuring availability for all customers. For more information and updates visit us at www.g-mwater.com.au
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