MEDIA RELEASE

The Northern Midlands Irrigation Scheme (NMIS) has reached a major milestone, with more than 80 kilometres of pipeline now in the ground – marking the halfway point of pipeline construction.

This significant achievement highlights the strong construction progress being made, and confirms the project is on track to deliver water to farmers for the 2026 summer irrigation season.

Tasmanian Irrigation CEO Mike Sylvester said the scheme will deliver 25,500 ML of high-surety water, enabling the irrigation of around 7,000 hectares of farmland.

“The scheme will deliver reliable water where and when it’s needed, giving farmers the confidence to invest in their farm businesses, including conversion to high value crops,” Mr Sylvester said.

“Farmers have told us that reliable access to irrigation water is the catalyst for expansion – enabling them to increase crop rotations, boost yields, and diversify into high-value crops such as wine grapes, leafy greens and berries. This, in turn, strengthens regional economies and improves farm resilience in a changing climate.”

Farmers Patrick and Mady Taylor will access 850 megalitres of water from the NMIS and say guaranteed access to water brings peace of mind into the future.

“There’s a period of uncertainty at the end of every season where we hold our breath waiting to see whether there’ll be enough rain to finish high input crops like potatoes and poppies,” said Patrick. “Knowing the water will be there means we can invest in higher value crops, plant with confidence, and reassure our buyers that we can meet growing demand.”

Ms Taylor said the NMIS provides confidence not just for her family, but for future faming generations.

“The long life of the irrigation scheme means our kids will see the benefits, and their kids will too. It makes it more likely they’ll stay on the farm when they grow up. And in our community, we know farms will be hiring more people, more wages will be paid, families will move into the district, and the community will thrive.”

The construction effort is being led by head contractor Hazell Bros, with crews working across the project footprint, laying up to 160 metres of pipe per day. Mr Sylvester said once commissioned, the $217.9 million project will deliver a $54 million annual boost to the State’s economy.

“Irrigation is transforming Tasmanian agriculture, creating economic value and expanding farm production to meet the growing demand for Tasmania’s premium produce.

“Our irrigation schemes have a design life of one hundred years, which means the economic and social benefit they deliver is intergenerational.”

The Northern Midlands Irrigation Scheme is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($108.98 million), the Tasmanian Government ($72.26 million), and Tasmanian irrigators through the purchase of water entitlements ($36.72 million).

For more information, contact: Samantha Meyer, Manager Stakeholder Relations and Communications samantha.meyer@tasirrigation.com.au 0438 210 468