GHD channels multidisciplinary skills for landmark irrigation upgrade

The largest irrigation upgrade in Australia’s Mildura region in more than 100 years has been delivered on time and on budget with help from GHD, one of the world’s leading engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services companies.

The AUD 120 million Sunraysia Modernisation Project involved upgrading irrigation, stock and domestic meters for compliance with the national framework, replacing almost 24 km of open channel with low-pressure pipelines, automating 20 km of remaining open channels, installing 19 regulator structures and upgrading key pump stations. Around 2000 irrigators around the region are benefitting from improved productivity while generating environmental water savings of at least 7 GL annually.

Engaged by Lower Murray Water, GHD provided a wide range of technical services, including project management, civil engineering design, environmental assessments, planning approvals and construction management support. The company mobilised its team of irrigation, geotechnical, environmental and rural water supply professionals to work closely with the Sunraysia Modernisation Project team.

Mark Monaghan, GHD’s Market Leader – Victoria, says, “We are proud to have contributed to this landmark project, which will promote sustainable growth and development in the region for many decades to come. Harnessing our local presence in Mildura and the capabilities of our global network, we worked hard with our client to achieve ambitious program objectives. The delivery strategy enabled our client to expand the scope of the project within the original budget, while delivering productivity benefits and cost savings.”

Chris Hertle, GHD’s Australian Market Leader – Water, says, “Our team has in-depth scientific and engineering experience in helping irrigators grow more with less water. Irrigation currently comprises less than half of one percent of all Australian agricultural land, but accounts for around a quarter of the total output and more than half of all farm profits. With the world population forecast to grow from seven to more than nine billion by 2050, improving the efficiency and productivity of irrigation is key to expanding Australia’s role as a food bowl for other countries.”