Gippsland Irrigation Expo to help farmers future proof

24 April 2026

With more farmers planning for drier years and tightening water allocations, the Gippsland Irrigation Expo is returning with its biggest program yet on Wednesday 20 May at the Sale Showgrounds.

Hosted by Agriculture Victoria, the free event will feature more than 40 exhibitors, a packed technical program and practical demonstrations designed to help producers boost water efficiency, upgrade or make the most of ageing systems, and make informed decisions.

Agriculture Victoria irrigation extension officer Stephanie Veskoukis said the Expo program was developed with farmers, who were looking for more than an opportunity to purchase new infrastructure.

‘Farmers told us they wanted an event that adds value beyond sales,’ Ms Veskoukis said.

‘They want to learn, upskill and exchange practical knowledge, along with the opportunity to discuss the latest in irrigation products and services. Demand for practical, impartial information has grown as farmers respond to a changing climate and tightening margins. This expo is designed to support informed choices and foster a sense of connection across the industry.’

This year’s expo will run from 9 am to 4 pm and will be headlined by Dr James Hills, associate professor at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture and known nationally for his work on irrigation scheduling, soil moisture monitoring and dairy system performance under irrigation.

‘One of the biggest challenges we will face in the next decade is the increasing variability in our climate and the related availability of reliable irrigation water,’ Dr Hills said.

Dr Hills will share his research on practical irrigation scheduling using soil‑moisture and weather information, helping farmers to apply the right amount of water at the right time.

Practical information sessions will also cover energy-efficient irrigation system design, and how end-gun performance affects crop uniformity and returns.

The day will conclude with a solutions‑based expert panel Q&A session, giving farmers the chance to ask questions and apply lessons directly to their own irrigation systems.

The expo offers a one-stop opportunity for irrigators to gather advice, compare systems and see new technology in action.

More information and tickets are at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/IrriExpo

The 2026 Expo is funded as part of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action’s Sustainable Irrigation Program, delivered by Agriculture Victoria and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority.

Media contact: Danny Buttler

Phone: 0409 561 326