The relationship between targeted irrigation infrastructure investment and long-term prosperity for farming communities was the focus of Tasmanian Irrigation Chief Executive Officer Mike Sylvester’s presentation at FarmX.

Organised by TasFarmers, the one-day conference and expo brought together more than 250 farmers, innovators and industry leaders to connect, learn and explore what’s next in agriculture.

Tasmanian Irrigation team members also set up a booth to talk to farmers, industry leaders and agricultural professionals about irrigation, innovation and investment.

Mike, one of the keynote speakers, shared Tasmanian Irrigation’s strategic vision for the development of new irrigation schemes, as well as the ongoing management of operational schemes, and how they will continue to deliver sustainable growth and economic opportunities.

“High-surety irrigation water is pivotal for on-farm risk management, supporting climate resilience, and boosting farmer confidence to enter into lucrative contracts, and diversify and intensify existing operations,” he said.

“We are extremely fortunate that the Australian and Tasmanian Governments are committed to investing alongside landowners to deliver this infrastructure to grow our agricultural sector.”

Tasmanian Irrigation delivered 93,610 megalitres of water in 2024/25.

For every 1,000 megalitres of Tasmanian Irrigation water supplied, in the order of 25 direct and indirect jobs are created, there is on-farm investment of between $2 million to $4 million and up to $3 million per year of benefit is generated for the wider State economy.

“The sustainable growth of irrigated agriculture is undeniably good for Tasmania,” Mike said.

“We sincerely thank all FarmX attendees for visiting our stand and contributing to these important industry conversations.”

See Mike's presentation here: Tasmanian Irrigation presentation