An announcement this week on the feasibility of expanding the Northern Adelaide Irrigation Scheme to the Clare Valley by Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Tim Whetstone, has been applauded by Member for Frome Geoff Brock MP.

Access to affordable water for the wine industry has been a pressing issue for many years and one with which Mr Brock is only to familiar.

“I have been working closely with Clare Valley winemakers and vignerons over the years, who have contacted me on many occasions when issues arise for assistance,” Mr Brock said.

“Water security, sustainability and affordability are critical to the ongoing growth and viability of the wine industry.”

Mr Brock said he was pleased that the State Government would be committing almost $60,000 towards a feasibility study to look at opportunities for a more reliable and secure water supply for wine-grape growers in the Clare Valley and surrounds.

“As Minister Whetstone said in his announcement, irrigation has been a critical challenge for the growth of the industry and its productivity.

“The feasibility study will provide an opportunity to see what can be done to address some of the challenges growers face and is a first step to determine the current and future demand for irrigation water in the region.”

The feasibility study is being supported by $58,500 from the $1.8 million South Australian Wine Industry Development Scheme.