Australian Water Management Review Vol. 1 2014 | Page 77

Dehne’s project was approved in August 2013. Due
to the timing of his crop cycles, his project got
under way very quickly. Contractors have already
delivered all stops, outlets and structures and have
commenced installations. Dehne and the contractors
have worked hard over the last few months (in some
very hot conditions!) finishing the landforming of one
section, completing the re-use system and installing
new channels. Benefits of the project include:
• Increased production and reduced irrigation
(11.6ML/ha to 8.7ML/ha);
• Water savings of 2.9ML/ha across all fields; and,
• Re-use system allowing the capture and reuse
of runoff .
As of 15 January, Dehne has finished approximately
70% of the works and is on-track to finish the
project within his estimated timeframe. The works
being completed on Dehne’s property will save
approximately 428ML per year over the next five
years. Dehne has returned 218ML of water to the
Australian Government for environmental use.

Interview with Dehne

Would you participate in this type of program again?

What do you think are the benefits of the On-Farm
Irrigation Efficiency Program?

Yes, I would apply again. For the people who can
apply, I would recommend applying.

After I make the infrastructure changes, I will get more
from my crops and still use less water than I am right
now. This program gives me the money to put the
proper infrastructure in. It also lets me do the project
in a very short period of time so I can concentrate on
my core business which is dairy farming.

Round 4

What should other irrigators be aware of when
thinking about participating in similar programs or
completing similar projects?
Irrigators should know their budgets and know that
the quotes for different things such as pipes can
change quickly. If you start the works months after
you get the quotes, be prepared for changes to the
prices since suppliers might have increased their
prices. Also make sure your farm design is correct
so you know what needs to be done (for example,
moving dirt).

On 29 July 2013, the former Parliamentary Secretary
for the Environment and Urban Water, Amanda
Rishworth, announced the op V