Conference Update # 5 - workshops for local government and open space staff, and spotlight on Sterling Pumps

Today’s focus is a few highlights on what’s in the event for open space operators – parks and gardens, sports facilities staff and so on.

Free training in Irrigation Scheduling, particularly for local government staff on Monday 2 September!

It covers everything from application rates, energy efficiency benchmarks, performance monitoring, system inspection and troubleshooting.? Perfect for anyone looking to advance their knowledge in irrigation technology, this course provides the foundation skills required to effectively operate an irrigation system.

Keep an eye out on the program link for registration instructions in the next few days but we plan on offering a separate morning and afternoon session so you can attend the training in one and the Exhibition in the other.

Water utility/ irrigation industry partnerships on Monday 2 September 2-5 pm.? Hosted by Irrigation Australia and the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA), this workshop will include discussions around:

• Water availability, in the right place and at the right price for open space irrigation.
• Procurement approaches and other institutional impediments to the uptake of practical irrigation approaches – good design, installation, operation, maintenance/ renewal.? Accessing skills and knowledge but also simply contracting the right people.
• Greening benefits including urban cooling.
• Maximising reuse opportunities, a particular challenge for Sydney.

It aims to:

• Provide information for practitioners to overcome barriers – targeted at local government and other open space managers;
• Key advocacy points for WSAA and Irrigation Australia to promote positive change; and
• A future pathway for this work

Creating sustainable urban spaces in an unpredictable climate workshop

In an unpredictable climate there is an ever-increasing need for all of us to be aware of our water use, particularly outdoors.? By choosing irrigation products endorsed by Smart Approved WaterMark it is possible for councils to irrigate playing fields efficiently and homeowners to maintain a beautiful garden.?

Irrigation Australia’s Waterwise Programs have partnered with stakeholders in Western Australia to elevate the standards of irrigation services by promoting best practices among contractors and retail stores. We are eager to collaborate with other stakeholders in various regions who share our commitment to advancing the quality of domestic irrigation.

Spotlight on Sterling Pumps

Sterling Pumps are an Australian based pump and motor original equipment manufacturer based in Pakenham and Sunshine in Melbourne. As a complete solution provider, we offer a catalogue of standard products for common uses and the capability to design and manufacture pumps, motor and fluid systems to specific individual requirements. Our Australian made production includes vertical turbine pumps and horizontal split case pumps, submersible pumps and submersible motors, multistage pumps, open drain dewatering pumps for agricultural, rural, industrial, processing and mining duties, including certified firefighting pumps and fire protection systems which are installed around Australia and internationally in civil, industrial and emergency operations by some of the largest oil and gas operations in the world. Sterling has 2 significant manufacturing plants in Melbourne with local R&D and testing facilities to ensure we offer the best pumps available that are manufactured in Australia. With over 40 years of Australian manufacturing history our heritage production includes Harland, Johnston and Indeng products. Sterling Pumps, proudly manufacturing pumping solutions in Melbourne.

How can you participate?

1. As a free Exhibition Visitor – come along to see some of the best contemporary gear available and support our excellent exhibitors who’ve invested significantly to fill our Exhibition Hall including a networking lounge, poster displays, interactive zone and competitions and other activities.? Our exhibitors and sponsors are the only reason this event is possible.
2. As a Conference Delegate – some top national and international papers, panels, keynotes and other knowledge exchange activities, as well as all the networking that comes with the social functions and tours.? Big discounts for Irrigation Australia members – email [email protected] if you would like to join.
3. As an Exhibitor – the response to date has been fantastic with over 75% of floor space sold, but we want to hit full capacity!?? Have a browse through who’s already signed up through the interactive map.
4. As a Sponsor – with special thanks to our contributors so far, there are still many more opportunities to promote your brand to the sector with options ranging from $2,500 upwards.? We are also looking for a few “off the prospectus” contributors for new activities like Awards where we hope to establish a long term naming rights relationship.

?All of the details are in the links, please reach out with any questions.

Dave Cameron

CEO Irrigation Australia