Just over 12 months into operations, Bairnsdale Irrigation has found one thing is clear: no two farms, and no two irrigation enquiries, are ever the same.
A consistent theme over the first year has been strong demand for solar pumping solutions to supply stock water across the district. Managing water for beef cattle, particularly Angus herds, has placed increased pressure on existing infrastructure, with many systems unable to deliver the necessary flow rates.
“Many properties are transitioning from sheep grazing to beef production, which requires significantly more water,” said Jason Crimeen, of Bairnsdale Irrigation.
“We’ve been working closely with landholders to upgrade piping, optimise existing infrastructure, and in some cases redevelop systems entirely. The goal is to provide solutions that are reliable, robust, and easy to manage, even when farmers aren’t on site.”
The business has also noticed a rise in the use of smart technology. Tools such as tank monitors and remote monitoring equipment are giving farmers better visibility and control over their water systems, whether they are across the paddock or across the state. While quality solar pumping solutions often carry a higher upfront cost, they deliver lower running expenses, hands-off operation once installed, and peace of mind—all while supporting growing herds with impressive flow rates.
Another notable trend has been the uptake of hard hose irrigators. Bairnsdale Irrigation has been designing systems to suit almost any block shape or topography, particularly effective on uneven or undulating land.
“These systems have opened up irrigation opportunities in areas where watering was previously difficult or not cost-effective,” Mr Crimeen said.
“They allow farmers to grow more pasture using existing infrastructure without large additional investment. For many dryland properties, this added depth and resilience has been a game-changer.”
At the heart of the business is a commitment to working closely with farmers to create personalised, fit-for-purpose designs. Reliable water access helps livestock maintain better condition, experience less stress, and gain weight—benefits that often extend to the farmer as well.
“For me, this work is a passion,” Mr Crimeen said. “It’s the perfect balance between science and problem-solving, and getting hands-on to build something tangible. From analysing water sources, through pump sizing and irrigation design, to delivering a working system, supporting people through the entire process is incredibly rewarding.”
Twelve months in, Bairnsdale Irrigation has partnered with progressive local farmers across East Gippsland and beyond, helping them achieve better water management for livestock and pasture. The team looks forward to continuing to support the region’s irrigation needs well into the future.
