Irrigation - the Lifeblood of Regional Communities
Article by Sandy Bailey
Water is one of the most essential elements needed to sustain life and in many instances water also has the ability to influence the health of regional communities, especially those that are heavily reliant on strong agricultural outcomes.
Farmers — and those working across the agricultural sector — live at the mercy of the weather. But for some, like many in regions like the Gwydir Valley, irrigation brings a golden opportunity of consistent access to water regardless of the season. And while irrigation is at times a point of contention there is no denying the net positive impact across communities where irrigation is a central element of an area’s agricultural output.
For Moree Real Estate, which work predominantly across the Gwydir, Namoi, Barwon and Border Rivers systems, trading irrigation licences has become a significant arm of the business. The Gwydir Valley alone had over four hundred individual water licences which support the production of cotton, pecans, citrus and olives in the area. In a region where agriculture directly employs twenty five percent of the work force and produces $13 billion in annual product output, irrigation plays a crucial role in maintaining a vibrant regional community with a healthy local economy.
So how do communities supported by irrigation differ from those that aren’t? In an industry where seasonal fluctuations are so prevalent and have such a big impact on economic success, irrigation allows for less reliance on seasonal weather events and keeps the industry moving forward when times are dry. When agriculture is such a major contributor to the local economy, irrigation can produce more consistent and sustainable economic and community outcomes for a region – something that’s been seen time and time again across areas like the Gwydir.
When agriculture thrives, so does the secondary industry in the community — the machinery dealerships, fabricators, accountants, earth movers and the like, all employ locals, sponsor community events and contribute to the economic health of the region.
Organisations like the Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association (GVIA), are also continuing to advocate for the betterment of these regions. Originally set up in the 90s the GVIA provides an unified voice that champions for the local industry: advocating to government, encouraging industry profitability and sustainability through education, promote the benefits of the region to businesses, investors and skilled workers, as well as giving back to the greater community with initiatives such as their annual scholarship fund.
In an era where most regional areas are struggling to keep and attract the next generation, young people continue to be drawn to towns like Moree with the allure of opportunity, translating to more local talent. Talent that’s keen to play for the sporting teams, help organise local events and contribute to other community groups. Many go on to buy their first homes, have young families, maybe start a local business of their own and embed their lives in the area – ensuring a prosperous future for local communities.
There’s a reason the local rugby team wins premierships when the dam is full and irrigation allocations are high.
This article was created in partnership with Moree Real Estaterealestate.com.au/.