Murray Irrigation safely wraps up 2026 Winter Works
18 September 2026
Murray Irrigation has wrapped up the majority of its 2026 Winter Works program, completing approximately $10 million in maintenance and capital works to enhance its water delivery network and increase the life of its irrigation assets.
Murray Irrigation staff and contractors have clocked up thousands of hours since May to deliver this year's works.
One of the big-ticket items has been major concrete repairs and life extension works to the Edward River Escape outfall, which is more than 70 years old. It is the first full concrete remediation that Murray Irrigation has carried out on this iconic site since it was officially opened in 1955.
Another key focus for this year has been the commencement of a two-year flood resilience works program. Murray Irrigation is investing more than $5 million into this major initiative, which is targeting six sites between Wakool and Moulamein and comes in response to findings from the Company's 2022 Flood Review.
Murray Irrigation's 2026 Winter Works Program at a glance:
- Work orders - approximately 3500
- Structural Inspections - 76
- Concrete remedial works on regulators and offtakes - 122
- Erosion control sites - 130
- Channel reconstruction - 6.9km
- Civil upgrades - 24
- Desilting works - 289km
- Slip meter outlets serviced - 192
- Regulators/offtakes serviced - 1334
- Aquatic weeds treatment - 64km
COO Scott Barlow has expressed his gratitude to Murray Irrigation staff and contracting teams on the successful completion of this year's works program.
National Concrete Solutions (NCE) spray applying a crystalline coating to extend the life of the Edward River Escape structure.
National Concrete Solutions (NCS) pumping concrete into the Edward River Escape outfall.
"Delivering a works program of this magnitude requires teamwork, skill, and an absolute commitment to safety," he said.
“While we experienced a number of delays due to wet weather, particularly with the flood works projects, we are pleased that we were able to bring the system back online in most areas so customers were able to take advantage of the recent Supplementary Water Event that occurred.
"Thank you to all our staff and contracting partners on a job well done.
"We also extend our appreciation to our customers for their patience and support during the delivery of this essential infrastructure program.”
Murray Irrigation's annual Winter Works program is critical to ensuring its irrigation network, which is made up of more than $1 billion worth of assets, continues to deliver water reliably and efficiently for generations to come.
