Parks and service staff from the Shires of Merredin and Murray, the Cities of Kalamunda and Kwinana and the Town of Port Hedland have taken part in the WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation’s (DWER) Irrigation Efficiency Training program.
The Waterwise training – held in partnership with Water Corporation, hosted by the City of Kwinana and delivered by Irrigation Australia – was developed in response to the extended dry season of 2023–24 and focused on the design, installation, and maintenance of irrigation systems. The training aims to equip local government staff with the practical skills and knowledge needed to manage water more efficiently and sustainably.
Supporting local governments to improve irrigation practices aligns with the department’s Kep Katitjin – Gabi Kaadadjan Waterwise Action Plan, which includes a target for 100% of Boorloo (Perth) and Bindjareb (Peel) local governments to achieve Waterwise Council Gold status by 2030.
“Dry season is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change and how we need to effectively manage our limited water supplies with less rainfall into the future,” said Waterwise Cities Senior Project Officer, Pat Ridley.
Improving water efficiency is a cost-effective strategy to build resilience against climate change and plays a vital role in creating waterwise communities, he said.
The Department says many local governments across WA are already leading the way in sustainable water use, showcasing how groundwater can be used efficiently to maintain vibrant and functional public open spaces and sports grounds.
Local governments interested in what training is available through Irrigation Australia can visit https://irrigationaustralia.com.au/training-certification-irrigation-australia.
For more information on the Department’s Waterwise work visit the Kep Katitjin – Gabi Kaadadjan Waterwise action plan 3 Program: Kep Katitjin – Gabi Kaadadjan Waterwise action plan 3 | Western Australian Government.
