The Connections project was the largest irrigation infrastructure project the Victorian Government has ever undertaken.
Through the modernisation of irrigation infrastructure across the GMID, it delivered 433 gigalitres of annual savings to the region.
The success of Connections led to the Water Efficiency Project, which began in 2021.
The Water Efficiency Project includes the treatment of 1021 outlets and more than 250km of channel, including the conversion of numerous sections of channel into pipelines.
Already, the project has completed works amounting to more than half of the targeted 15.9 Gl of water savings it is expected to attain upon its completion and subject to final audit and verification.
Despite the recent wet weather, we know water is generally becoming a more limited resource.
This, in tandem with improved environmental outcomes through returning water to the environment and the growing population of the GMID, means it is vital no drop goes to waste.
The savings that have been created by Connections, and that are currently being created by the Water Efficiency Project, not only benefit irrigators in the region but the environment, Melbourne water retailers and the broader community.
As part of the over achievement of water savings for the Connections project, it was agreed that 1.36 Gl would be provided to Traditional Owners in northern Victoria.
This is the first time that Traditional Owners in northern Victoria will receive a water entitlement as part of the government’s commitment to Aboriginal values and aspirations for water.
The projects have been a huge undertaking, and with few comparable projects to learn from, our staff have had to be innovative and adaptable.
Not so long ago, there were questions as to whether Connections could be completed successfully.
In 2016, Frank Fisseler was appointed project director to work through the myriad of challenges associated with such a large undertaking.
Frank’s leadership and dedication in the time since has led not just to the Connections project’s success but also a significant further funding commitment from the Federal Government as part of the $177.5 million Water Efficiency Project.
Furthermore, Frank oversaw the successful delivery of the Mitiamo Pipeline Project, which now delivers water from a solar-powered pump station to properties that had never previously had access to reliable stock and domestic supply.
None of this would have been possible without Frank’s guidance.
Sadly, Frank has now confirmed his intention to resign as project director to focus on new challenges in the water sector across Australia.
Water Efficiency Project finance, commercial and cost control executive manager Sean Tenace will now step into the role of project director.
Sean joined the Connections project in 2011 and has been an integral member of the project’s Finance, Commercial and Cost Control team.
As a local to the region, Sean fully understands the significance of the Water Efficiency Project, and will no doubt continue Frank’s great work.
While Frank’s time with G-MW is ending, his contributions to these projects will serve the GMID for years to come.
It has been a pleasure working with Frank, and on behalf of G-MW, I wish Frank all the best in his future endeavours.
Works under the Water Efficiency Project are on track for completion in mid-2023, with the issuing of water recovery to be completed in mid-2024.
To learn more about the project, head to: https://www.waterefficiencyproject.com.au/
Charmaine Quick
G-MW managing director
Editor’s note: Mr Fisseler will be continuing as project director of the Constraints project run through DELWP.
