TAMWORTH irrigators have painted a grim picture for the future of the industry in the region, with water usage charges continuing to sting.
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A number of Peel Valley Water Users implored Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) to do what they could to reduce the cost borne by irrigators at Tuesday night’s meeting.
“Today will decide if you have an irrigation industry in Tamworth in the future,” David Gowing told councillors.
Under WaterNSW’s bulk water charges, Peel Valley irrigators are charged $54.97 per megalitre, which is considerably higher than rates paid in the Lachlan ($18.20) and Namoi ($18.12).
The meeting was an opportunity for a last ditch attempt to sway councillors to endorse an 80:20 fixed to usage charging regime, as opposed to the present 40:60 rate.
While they were unsuccessful, councillors agreed it was time to push for equitable rates for Peel Valley irrigators.
Cr Phil Betts said water users “are getting ripped off”, while Cr Russell Webb said council should write to NSW water minister Niall Blair.