Media releases

Murray Irrigation and Federation University Australia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the University’s Future Regions Research Centre (FRRC) develop recommendations to ensure the effective end-of-life management of a key water management system in the Murray Darling Basin.

The joint venture will see FRRC researchers leverage their expertise in regional community development, water resources engineering and restoration ecology to conduct a feasibility study on the ongoing management of the Wakool Tullakool Sub Surface Drainage System (WTSSDS).

Since its completion in 1988, the WTSSDS, which has been operated by Murray Irrigation, has protected more than 50,000 hectares of land in the Wakool area from high water tables and salinity and has since reached the end of its useful life.

The study will provide recommendations on how the site can be managed with minimal financial and ecological impact, while also exploring the site’s potential for future employment, recreation and development opportunities.

The collaboration with Murray Irrigation, a public company that operates Australia’s largest private water supply network, is another example of how Federation University is committed to supporting regional businesses with world-class research and best practice methodologies in a wide range of disciplines.

Quote attributable to Federation University Australia Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Chris Hutchison
“As Victoria’s premier regional university, Federation is committed to enhancing communities and transforming lives and this collaboration with Murray Irrigation is a prime example of how application of our world-class research can create transformational change in our regions. We look forward to working with Murray Irrigation to ensure the sustainable management of this important area of the Murray region.”

Quote attributable to Director, Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University Australia, Professor Keir Reeves

“This MoU with Murray Irrigation presents an exciting opportunity for the Future Regions Research Centre. The Wakool Tullakool site is an important site in the Murray region and the terms of the agreement will see our team of researchers undertake a holistic review of the site and provide recommendations on ensuring its environmental, ecological and financial sustainability.”

Quote attributable to CEO, Ron McCalman, Murray Irrigation Limited

“Murray Irrigation is looking forward to working with Federation University to capture the historical information related to the Wakool Tullakool sub surface drainage system and assist with a path forward to ensure this vital piece of infrastructure is used efficiently going forward.”