The Western Australian Government has entered into an agreement with Gascoyne Water Cooperative (GWC) and Gascoyne Water Asset Mutual Cooperative which will see 4GL of water per annum made available from the Northern borefield.
The agreement will allow for irrigated agricultural expansion, with the Western Australian Government moving to guarantee a reliable, high-quality water supply to new and existing growers at Carnarvon.
The GWC will maintain and operate the 18 new production bores and 25km pipeline, powered by a 22,000 volt electricity supply – all developed under the Western Australian Government’s $25 million Gascoyne Food Bowl initiative.
The agreement supports the GWC’s expansion plan, providing confidence to growers – particularly the owners of a recent land release – to progress investments to cultivate table grapes, melons and other fruit crops.
Development approvals and site preparations for the 320ha land release are progressing, with initial plantings expected before the end of 2023.
The milestone signals the final leg of the transformative Gascoyne Food Bowl project to lift horticulture production in the Carnarvon irrigation area, and capture domestic and export market opportunities that generate regional growth and jobs.
Western Australia Agriculture and Food Minister, Alannah MacTiernan, said, “I am pleased we have been able to land this agreement which is so important for the future of horticulture in Carnarvon.
“Planning investment for developing scale in this important precinct has been underway for decades.
Ms MacTiernan said the expansion of the area and improved water security will benefit all growers and improve critical mass for new markets and logistics.
“I thank Gascoyne Water Cooperative Chair Elena Limnios and CEO Eddie Smith for their leadership and dedication to finalising this agreement and putting the GWC on a sustainable footing.”
Western Australia Water Minister, Dave Kelly, said the agreement represents an important step towards establishing the Gascoyne as one of Australia’s premier food producing regions.
“By improving water security for growers in the Gascoyne, the State Government is supporting the expansion and sustainable future of this key horticultural region.”
