|
| Condamine–Balonne |
The Condamine–Balonne region (map 3) is located in south-eastern Queensland. The main waterways are the Condamine, Balonne and Culgoa Rivers, and major water storages include Beardmore and Leslie Dams (CSIRO 2008a). Groundwater and harvested overland flows are also important sources of irrigation water within the region.
There are two main irrigation areas within the Condamine–Balonne. One of these areas is situated along the upper Condamine River between Warwick and Chinchilla. The main irrigation activity along the upper Condamine is cotton. Vegetable growing is an important irrigation activity around Chinchilla. Other activities in the area include irrigated dairy farming, broadacre grazing, fruit and mixed cropping.
The other main irrigation area is situated around St George and downstream to Dirranbandi, with irrigators utilising regulated flows from water stored in Beardmore Dam and/or harvesting water from overland flows. Irrigators in this district are predominantly cotton growers although vegetable and fruit production and mixed cropping activities are also undertaken.
The irrigation survey in the Condamine–Balonne region targeted irrigators in the dairy, broadacre and horticulture industries. More than 80 per cent of the target population of irrigation farms were broadacre farms, with a further 10 per cent being dairy farms and 7 per cent producing horticultural crops.
Dairy farms
The average area operated by irrigated dairy farms in the Condamine–Balonne region was estimated to be around 260 hectares in 2006-07 (table 11). Of this area, around 82 hectares (31 per cent of total area operated) were set up for irrigation. In 2006-07, dairy farmers irrigated 50 per cent of the area set up for irrigation, with water applied to crops such as lucerne, oats and rye. On average, a total of 126 hectares were planted to crops (dryland and irrigated), of which 41 hectares were irrigated.
Irrigated dairy farms in the Condamine–Balonne region held an estimated 116 megalitres of water entitlements in 2006-07, comprising mostly groundwater (114 megalitres). On average, these farms used a total of 94 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around 2 megalitres a hectare in 2006-07.
Farm cash income averaged around $33 760 in 2006-07. Farm business profit averaged around minus $51 780. The average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) was minus 0.6 per cent in 2006-07.
Broadacre farms
The average area operated by irrigated broadacre farms in the Condamine–Balonne region was estimated to be around 1700 hectares in 2006-07 (table 11). An estimated 551 hectares (32 per cent of the total area operated) were set up for irrigation. In 2006-07, broadacre farms irrigated around 25 per cent of the area able to be irrigated, with crops irrigated including cotton, sorghum and hay. Of the total area planted to crops on these farms, an average of 124 hectares (48 per cent of the total crop area) was irrigated in 2006-07.
Irrigated broadacre farms in the Condamine–Balonne held an estimated 788 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised of groundwater (512 megalitres), overland flows (157 megalitres), and surface water (119 megalitres). In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 386 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around 3 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for broadacre farms in the Condamine–Balonne region averaged around $101 100 in 2006-07, with an average farm business loss of around $41 390. Overall, irrigated broadacre farms in the Condamine–Balonne region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 1.0 per cent in 2006-07.
Horticulture farms
The average area operated by irrigated horticulture farms in the Condamine–Balonne region was estimated to have been around 270 hectares in 2006-07, of which around 100 hectares were set up for irrigation (table 11). In 2006-07, these farms irrigated around 55 per cent of the area set up for irrigation, with crops irrigated including vines, pome fruits and some wheat. Of the 82 hectares planted to crops (dryland and irrigated), a total of 54 hectares (two-thirds of the total crop area) were irrigated in 2006-07.
Irrigated horticulture farms held an estimated 599 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised of surface water (540 megalitres) and groundwater (60 megalitres). In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 136 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around
2 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for horticulture farms averaged around $251 240 in 2006-07 while farm business profit averaged around $172 050. Overall, irrigated horticulture farms in the Condamine–Balonne region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 5.9 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 11 |
Selected estimates, Condamine–Balonne region, 2006-07
average per farm |
|
| |
|
|
dairy |
broadacre |
horticulture |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
| Area operated |
ha |
260 |
(16) |
1 703 |
(33) |
273 |
(33) |
| Sheep |
no. |
0 |
– |
253 |
(88) |
21 |
(96) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
31 |
(71) |
189 |
(43) |
45 |
(34) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
156 |
(20) |
2 |
(112) |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
82 |
(29) |
551 |
(21) |
98 |
(25) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
41 |
(19) |
124 |
(17) |
54 |
(32) |
| Area of non–irrigated crops |
ha |
85 |
(24) |
132 |
(18) |
28 |
(46) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
0 |
– |
12 |
(99) |
5 |
(96) |
| Water applied to crops |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| and pasture |
ML |
94 |
(20) |
386 |
(27) |
136 |
(44) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
2 |
(22) |
3 |
(18) |
2 |
(30) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
305 443 |
(15) |
662 075 |
(18) |
874 889 |
(52) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
271 688 |
(17) |
560 972 |
(21) |
623 651 |
(52) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
33 756 |
(73) |
101 103 |
(58) |
251 238 |
(60) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
– 51 778 |
(36) |
– 41 390 |
(146) |
172 053 |
(79) |
| Rate of return |
% |
–0.6 |
(139) |
1 |
(85) |
5.9 |
(39) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
451 108 |
(25) |
1 328 469 |
(28) |
284 849 |
(47) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
479 866 |
(25) |
1 235 506 |
(30) |
292 573 |
(43) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
2 471 000 |
(10) |
5 720 993 |
(18) |
3 586 359 |
(30) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
61 853 |
(65) |
702 122 |
(37) |
387 398 |
(55) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
114 |
28 |
512 |
(36) |
60 |
(28) |
| Surface water |
ML |
2 |
(98) |
119 |
(76) |
540 |
(83) |
| Overland flows |
ML |
0 |
– |
157 |
(36) |
0 |
– |
|
| Total |
ML |
116 |
(26) |
788 |
(46) |
599 |
(38) |
|
| Border Rivers |
The Border Rivers region spans the border regions of south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales. The main waterways are Macintyre Brook and the Macintyre and Dumaresq Rivers (map 4). Major water storages include Pindari and Glenlyon Dams (CSIRO 2007b). Groundwater and water harvested from overland flows are also used for irrigation purposes in the region.
There are two main irrigation areas within the Border Rivers region. One area is located along the regulated parts of the Macintyre and Dumaresq Rivers and Macintyre Brook. Irrigation activity is centred on Goondiwindi and areas downstream to Mungindi with cotton being the most important crop. In addition, a number of broadacre farms in the region undertake a mix of irrigated and dryland cropping, and livestock production.
The other area is situated around Stanthorpe and relies predominantly on unregulated water supplies. Important irrigation activities in this area are fruit and vegetable production.
The irrigation survey in the Border Rivers region targeted irrigators as a whole, regardless of industry or commodity produced. Around one-third of the farms surveyed in the Border Rivers region produced horticultural crops, with the remaining farms producing a mix of broadacre crops (primarily cotton) and beef cattle.
The average area operated by irrigation farms in the Border Rivers was estimated to be around 700 hectares in 2006-07, of which around 147 hectares (21 per cent of the total area operated) were set up for irrigation (table 12). Reflecting the lower than normal allocations, farms irrigated just less than half the total area set up for irrigation in 2006-07. The total area of crops planted was estimated to average around 180 hectares in 2006-07, of which 67 hectares (37 per cent of total crop area) were irrigated. The main crop irrigated was cotton with smaller areas of sorghum and vegetable crops.
Irrigation farms in the Border Rivers region held an estimated 1443 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised of overland flows (974 megalitres), surface water (439 megalitres) and groundwater (30 megalitres). In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 316 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated application rate of around 5 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for irrigation farms in the Border Rivers region averaged around $125 930 in 2006-07. Farm business profit averaged around $44 100 a farm. Overall, irrigators in the Border Rivers region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 3.9 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 12 |
Selected estimates, Border Rivers region, 2006-07
average per far, all industries |
|
| |
| Area operated |
ha |
702 |
(42) |
| Sheep |
no. |
20 |
(94) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
65 |
(59) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
147 |
(52) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
67 |
(57) |
| Area of non-irrigated crops |
ha |
113 |
(62) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
0 |
– |
| Water applied to crops |
|
|
| and pasture |
ML |
316 |
(66) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
5 |
(15) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
670 134 |
(43) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
544 206 |
(43) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
125 928 |
(52) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
44 103 |
(136) |
| Rate of return |
% |
3.9 |
(37) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
1 084 278 |
(55) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
1 218 338 |
(56) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
3 767 417 |
(43) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
1 048 003 |
(81) |
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
30 |
(64) |
| Surface water |
ML |
439 |
(63) |
| Overland flows |
ML |
974 |
(72) |
|
| Total |
ML |
1 443 |
(42) |
|
| Namoi |
The Namoi region is situated in north-eastern New South Wales. The main waterways are the Namoi, Manilla and Peel Rivers, and major water storages include Chaffey, Keepit and Split Rock Dams (map 5). Groundwater is also an important source of irrigation water in the region (CSIRO 2007c).
Irrigation activity occurs mainly along the Namoi River below Keepit Dam. In most years, cotton is the major irrigation crop, with cereal crops, pasture and hay also produced under irrigation.
The irrigation survey in the Namoi region targeted irrigators as a whole, regardless of industry or commodity produced. All farms surveyed undertook broadacre cropping in 2006-07. In addition, more than half the farms ran beef cattle and 22 per cent ran dairy cattle on a mixture of irrigated and dryland pasture. |
 |
| 13 |
Selected estimates, Namoi region, 2006-07
average per farm, all industries |
|
| |
| Area operated |
ha |
1 203 |
(16) |
| Sheep |
no. |
111 |
(107) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
183 |
(26) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
85 |
(47) |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
337 |
(24) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
238 |
(28) |
| Area of non-irrigated crops |
ha |
310 |
(33) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
3 |
(60) |
| Water applied to crops and pasture |
ML |
847 |
(27) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
4 |
(7) |
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
935 788 |
(21) |
| Total cash costs |
$ |
728 065 |
(24) |
| Farm cash income |
$ |
207 723 |
(26) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
140 045 |
(39) |
| Rate of return |
% |
4.2 |
(17) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
1 026 365 |
(23) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
980 169 |
(23) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
5 797 688 |
(17) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
1 624 207 |
(21) |
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
547 |
(32) |
| General security |
ML |
684 |
(24) |
| Supplementary |
ML |
34 |
(72) |
| Unregulated |
ML |
129 |
(81) |
| Other |
ML |
209 |
(99) |
| Total |
ML |
1 603 |
(23) |
|
|
On average, the area operated by irrigation farms in the Namoi region was around 1200 hectares in 2006-07 (table 13). Of this area, an average of 337 hectares was set up for irrigation, with around 70 per cent of this area irrigated in 2006-07. A total of around 548 hectares were planted to crops, of which 238 hectares (about 43 per cent of total crop area) were irrigated in 2006-07. The main irrigated crops were cotton, wheat, sorghum, barley and hay.
Irrigation farms in the Namoi region held an estimated 1603 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of general security licences (684 megalitres) and groundwater licences (547 megalitres). In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 847 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of 4 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for irrigation farms in the Namoi region averaged around $207 720 in 2006-07. Farm business profit averaged around $140 050. Overall, irrigators in the Namoi region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of 4.2 per cent. |
| Macquarie–Castlereagh |
The Macquarie–Castlereagh region is located in central-west New South Wales. The main waterways are the Macquarie and Castlereagh Rivers and the major water storages are Burrendong and Windamere Dams (map 6).
Most irrigation water is sourced from surface water diversions although groundwater is also used (CSIRO 2008b). The region’s irrigation activity occurs mostly around the Macquarie River, downstream from Narromine and Warren. The main irrigation crop is cotton, with cereal crops, pasture and hay production also important. Some irrigated horticulture activity also occurs around Mudgee and Orange.
The irrigation survey in the Macquarie–Castlereagh region targeted irrigators in the broadacre and horticulture industries. Around 80 per cent of the target population of irrigation farms were broadacre farms and about 20 per cent were horticultural farms.
Broadacre farms
The average area operated by irrigated broadacre farms in the Macquarie–Castlereagh region was around 1770 hectares in 2006-07 (table 14). Around 420 hectares were set up for irrigation on these farms, with one-third of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. A total of 743 hectares were planted to crops, of which 142 hectares (about 20 per cent of total crop area) were irrigated in 2006-07. The main crops irrigated were cotton, wheat, pulses and hay.
Irrigated broadacre farms in the Macquarie–Castlereagh region held an estimated 1885 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of general security licences (1157 megalitres) and groundwater licences (698 megalitres). In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 603 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around
4 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for broadacre farms averaged around $60 500 in 2006-07, while average farm business profit was about minus $55 690. Overall, irrigated broadacre farms in the Macquarie–Castlereagh region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of 1.2 per cent in 2006-07.
Horticulture farms
The average area operated by irrigated horticulture farms in the Macquarie–Castlereagh region was 164 hectares, of which around 67 hectares were set up for irrigation (table 14). In 2006-07, these farms irrigated all of the area set up, with the main irrigated crop being wine grapes.
Irrigated horticulture farms in the Macquarie–Castlereagh region held an estimated 252 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of groundwater licences. In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 132 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around 2 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for horticulture farms averaged around minus $61 680 and farm business profit averaged minus $126 800 in 2006-07. Overall, irrigated horticulture farms in the Macquarie–Castlereagh region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around minus 2.2 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 14 |
Selected estimates, Macquarie–Castlereagh region, 2006-07
average per farm |
|
|
|
|
broadacre |
horticulture |
|
|
|
|
|
| Area operated |
ha |
1 771 |
(19) |
164 |
(41) |
| Sheep |
no. |
746 |
(33) |
289 |
(103) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
139 |
(35) |
13 |
(68) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
0 |
– |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
420 |
(20) |
67 |
(40) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
142 |
(25) |
67 |
(40) |
| Area of non–irrigated crops |
ha |
601 |
(23) |
0 |
– |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
0 |
– |
0 |
– |
| Water applied to crops |
|
|
|
|
| and pasture |
ML |
603 |
(24) |
132 |
(40) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
4 |
(13) |
2 |
(22) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
564 668 |
(22) |
404 553 |
(31) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
504 164 |
(19) |
466 236 |
(35) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
60 504 |
(91) |
– 61 683 |
(137) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
– 55 688 |
(108) |
– 126 804 |
(67) |
| Rate of return |
% |
1.2 |
(118) |
–2.2 |
(74) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
789 500 |
(33) |
356 227 |
(65) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
792 392 |
(33) |
342 230 |
(67) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
4 349 495 |
(19) |
4 224 170 |
(36) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
1 417 152 |
(20) |
101 389 |
(78) |
|
|
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
698 |
(32) |
127 |
(39) |
| General security |
ML |
1 157 |
(23) |
15 |
(95) |
| High security |
ML |
10 |
(91) |
0 |
– |
| Supplementary |
ML |
20 |
(77) |
11 |
(97) |
| Unregulated |
ML |
0 |
– |
96 |
(52) |
| Other |
ML |
0 |
– |
3 |
(99) |
|
| Total |
ML |
1 885 |
(32) |
252 |
(55) |
|
| Lachlan |
The Lachlan region is located in central New South Wales (map 7). The main waterway is the Lachlan River and the major water storage is Wyangala Dam (CSIRO 2008c). Most irrigation in the Lachlan region is dependent on water from the regulated section of the Lachlan River below Wyangala Dam or from groundwater.
Irrigation in this region is mostly situated in close proximity to the river, particularly in the Jemalong and Wyldes Plains irrigation districts to the west of Forbes. Irrigation is also undertaken around Cowra as well as on the lower Lachlan around Hillston. The most important irrigation activities are cereal crops, and pasture and hay production. Some irrigated cotton and horticulture crops are also produced in the region. In addition, a number of broadacre farms in the region undertake a mix of irrigated and dryland cropping and livestock production.
The irrigation survey in the Lachlan region targeted irrigators as a whole, regardless of industry or commodity produced. Nearly one-quarter of the farms in the region irrigated wine grapes, 10 per cent were dairy farms, and the remainder had a mix of broadacre and/or horticulture crops.
On average, the area operated by irrigation farms in the Lachlan region was estimated to be around 1270 hectares in 2006-07 (table 15). Around 276 hectares were set up for irrigation, however only around one-third of this area was irrigated in 2006-07. The main crops irrigated were hay crops, barley, wine grapes and wheat.
Irrigation farms in the Lachlan region held an estimated 930 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of general security (562 megalitres) and groundwater (246 megalitres) licences. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 314 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 3 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for irrigation farms in the Lachlan region averaged around $73 000 in 2006-07, while these farms recorded an average farm business loss of around $37 950. Overall, irrigators in the Lachlan region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 0.9 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 15 |
Selected estimates, Lachlan region, 2006-07
average per farm, all industries |
|
| |
| Area operated |
ha |
1 272 |
(28) |
| Sheep |
no. |
1 326 |
(29) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
133 |
(33) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
21 |
(52) |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
276 |
(26) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
84 |
(32) |
| Area of non-irrigated crops |
ha |
355 |
(35) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
6 |
(58) |
| Water applied to crops and pasture |
ML |
314 |
(27) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
3 |
(23) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
526 585 |
(30) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
453 616 |
(26) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
72 969 |
(74) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
– 37 950 |
(156) |
| Rate of return |
% |
0.9 |
(178) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
510 181 |
(23) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
587 720 |
(24) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
3 893 782 |
(17) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
531 624 |
(23) |
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
246 |
(37) |
| General security |
ML |
562 |
(27) |
| High security |
ML |
98 |
(43) |
| Supplementary |
ML |
24 |
(99) |
|
| Total |
ML |
930 |
(25) |
|
| Murrumbidgee |
The Murrumbidgee region is located in southern New South Wales. The main waterway is the Murrumbidgee River and the major storages are Burrinjuck and Blowering Dams (CSIRO 2008d). Groundwater is also an important source of irrigation water in some parts of the region (map 8).
There are two main irrigation areas within the region — the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area and the Coleambally Irrigation Area. The Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area is located around Leeton and Griffith, while the Coleambally Irrigation Area is located around Coleambally. These areas usually support a broad range of irrigation activities with the more important being rice, other cereal crops, grapes, citrus, vegetables and pasture and hay production. Some irrigation activity also occurs in the western and southern parts of the region.
The irrigation survey in the Murrumbidgee region targeted irrigators in the dairy, broadacre and horticulture industries. Around 65 per cent of the target population of irrigation farms were broadacre farms, a further 32 per cent produced horticultural crops and the remainder were dairy farms.
Dairy farms
The average area operated by irrigated dairy farms in the Murrumbidgee region was around 358 hectares in 2006-07 (table 16). Around 184 hectares were set up for irrigation with almost all of this area irrigated in 2006-07. Pasture accounted for around 30 per cent of the total area irrigated. On average, 159 hectares were planted to crops, with the main irrigated crops being silage, hay, and wheat as well as some rye.
Irrigated dairy farms in the Murrumbidgee held an estimated 464 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of general security and groundwater entitlements. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 581 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around 3 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income averaged around $15 250 in 2006-07 while average farm business profit was around minus $62 870. The average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) was 0.3 per cent in 2006-07.
Broadacre farms
The average area operated by irrigated broadacre farms in the Murrumbidgee region was around 1146 hectares in 2006-07 (table 16). Around 511 hectares were set up for irrigation, with one-quarter of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. The main crops irrigated were wheat and to a lesser extent rice and barley.
Irrigated broadacre farms in the Murrumbidgee held an estimated 1757 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of general security licenses (1577 megalitres). In 2006-07, these farms used an average of around 502 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around 4 megalitres a hectare.
While average farm cash income was positive at around $68 400, average farm business profit was negative at minus $32 980. The average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) was around 0.7 per cent in 2006-07.
Horticulture farms
The average area operated by irrigated horticulture farms in the Murrumbidgee region was 90 hectares, of which around 44 hectares were set up for irrigation (table 16). In 2006-07, horticulture farms irrigated almost all of the total area set up for irrigation. On average, 47 hectares were planted to crops with around 90 per cent of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. The main crops irrigated were wine grapes and citrus, while some horticulture farms also irrigated wheat, barley and hay crops.
Irrigated horticulture farms in the Murrumbidgee region held an estimated 375 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of high security (243 megalitres) and general security (87 megalitres) licences. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 205 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated application rate of around 5 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for horticulture farms in the Murrumbidgee region averaged around $36 856 in 2006-07, while average farm business profit was negative at minus $15 150. Overall, irrigated horticulture farms in the Murrumbidgee region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 0.9 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 16 |
Selected estimates, Murrumbidgee region, 2006-07
average per farm |
|
| |
|
|
dairy |
broadacre |
horticulture |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Area operated |
ha |
358 |
(12) |
1 146 |
(23) |
90 |
(32) |
| Sheep |
no. |
0 |
– |
1 262 |
(19) |
8 |
(74) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
88 |
(48) |
45 |
(29) |
3 |
(67) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
387 |
(18) |
0 |
– |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
184 |
(24) |
511 |
(14) |
44 |
(18) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
128 |
(29) |
121 |
(19) |
43 |
(24) |
| Area of non–irrigated crops |
ha |
31 |
(64) |
168 |
(22) |
4 |
(73) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
52 |
(37) |
7 |
(59) |
1 |
(99) |
| Water applied to crops and pasture |
ML |
581 |
(21) |
502 |
(18) |
205 |
(21) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
3 |
(24) |
4 |
(11) |
5 |
(8) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
730 843 |
(18) |
444 987 |
(18) |
251 893 |
(19) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
715 594 |
(17) |
376 589 |
(16) |
215 037 |
(18) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
15 248 |
(167) |
68 397 |
(55) |
36 856 |
(46) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
– 62 870 |
(28) |
– 32 977 |
(105) |
– 15 149 |
(108) |
| Rate of return |
% |
0.3 |
(161) |
0.7 |
(166) |
1 |
(111) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
761 853 |
(19) |
477 255 |
(22) |
273 778 |
(21) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
946 568 |
(15) |
479 689 |
(20) |
292 132 |
(20) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
3 424 969 |
(16) |
3 360 865 |
(9) |
1 918 448 |
(12) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
796 598 |
(17) |
1 490 348 |
(11) |
946 077 |
(14) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
141 |
(44) |
117 |
(43) |
26 |
(49) |
| General security |
ML |
289 |
(56) |
1 577 |
(12) |
87 |
(39) |
| High security |
ML |
0 |
– |
49 |
(65) |
243 |
(17) |
| Supplementary |
ML |
0 |
– |
14 |
(74) |
9 |
(99) |
| Unregulated |
ML |
0 |
– |
0 |
– |
7 |
(84) |
| Other |
ML |
34 |
(86) |
0 |
– |
0 |
– |
|
| Total |
ML |
464 |
(44) |
1 757 |
(65) |
375 |
(42) |
|
| Murray |
The Murray region spans the length of the Murray River and includes farms in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia (map 9). The region also encompasses the lower Darling River system (CSIRO 2008e). The main waterways are the Murray and Darling Rivers with the main water storages being Hume and Dartmouth Dams, Lake Victoria and the Menindee Lakes.
Irrigation activity occurs along most of the Murray River and along some parts of the Darling River, particularly around Menindee. The most important irrigation activities in this region include wine grapes and citrus production (particularly from around Robinvale through to Waikerie) as well as cereal crops and pastures (centred on the central Murray).
The irrigation survey in the Murray region targeted irrigators in the dairy, broadacre and horticulture industries. Slightly more than 50 per cent of the target population of irrigation farms were horticulture farms, around one-third were broadacre farms and 16 per cent were dairy farms.
Dairy farms
The average area operated by irrigated dairy farms in the Murray region was 338 hectares (table 17). Around 187 hectares were set up for irrigation, with just less than 70 per cent of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. Pastures accounted for around 45 per cent of total area irrigated. The main crop types irrigated were hay, silage and cereal crops.
Irrigated dairy farms in the Murray region held an estimated 782 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 624 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 5 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for dairy farmers in the Murray region averaged around $69 080 in 2006-07. Farm business profit averaged around minus $32 340. The average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) was 0.7 per cent in 2006-07.
Broadacre farms
The average area operated by irrigated broadacre farms in the Murray region was about 1400 hectares (table 17). Around 490 hectares were set up for irrigation, with 36 per cent of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. The main irrigated crop was wheat. Some barley and hay/silage crops were also irrigated.
Irrigated broadacre farms in the Murray region held an estimated 812 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 336 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 2 megalitres a hectare.
Average farm cash income for broadacre farms in the Murray region was around $38 980 in 2006-07, while average farm business profit was around minus $45 070. Overall, irrigated broadacre farms in the Murray region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around minus 0.2 per cent in 2006-07.
Horticulture farms
The average area operated by irrigated horticulture farms was 100 hectares, of which around 46 hectares were set up for irrigation (table 17). In 2006-07, horticulture farms irrigated more than 70 per cent of this area set up for irrigation. A total of 50 hectares were planted to crops with 33 hectares (two-thirds of total crop area) irrigated in 2006-07. The main irrigated crop was wine grapes.
Irrigated horticulture farms in the Murray region held an estimated 275 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 221 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around 7 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for irrigated horticulture farms in the Murray region averaged around $50 070 in 2006-07 while average farm business profit was negative at around minus $1940. Overall, irrigated horticulture farms in the Murray region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 2.3 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 17 |
Selected estimates, Murray region, 2006-07
average per farm |
|
| |
|
|
dairy |
broadacre |
horticulture |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Area operated |
ha |
338 |
(20) |
1 398 |
(29) |
100 |
(24) |
| Sheep |
no. |
42 |
(75) |
787 |
(19) |
20 |
(68) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
34 |
(41) |
155 |
(31) |
1 |
(51) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
379 |
(20) |
0 |
– |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
187 |
(17) |
490 |
(36) |
46 |
(15) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
69 |
(19) |
153 |
(41) |
33 |
(14) |
| Area of non-irrigated crops |
ha |
50 |
(34) |
283 |
(20) |
17 |
(46) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
57 |
(25) |
22 |
(34) |
0 |
– |
| Water applied to crops and pasture |
ML |
624 |
(22) |
336 |
(22) |
221 |
(14) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
5 |
(9) |
2 |
(23) |
7 |
(6) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
618 529 |
(18) |
347 992 |
(16) |
338 270 |
(15) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
549 450 |
(19) |
309 017 |
(19) |
288 205 |
(18) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
69 079 |
(35) |
38 975 |
(87) |
50 065 |
(43) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
– 32 343 |
(81) |
– 45 068 |
(62) |
– 1 937 |
(1150) |
| Rate of return |
% |
0.7 |
(136) |
–0.2 |
(412) |
2 |
(59) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
475 421 |
(21) |
261 774 |
(28) |
299 558 |
(17) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
572 217 |
(21) |
286 059 |
(27) |
289 597 |
(17) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
3 240 214 |
(13) |
3 290 123 |
(13) |
1 771 493 |
(11) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
1 042 014 |
(15) |
976 924 |
(13) |
600 761 |
(12) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
196 |
(20) |
79 |
(48) |
7 |
(57) |
| Surface water – regulated |
ML |
569 |
(42) |
693 |
(21) |
257 |
(46) |
| Surface water – unregulated |
ML |
18 |
(99) |
41 |
(97) |
0 |
– |
|
| Total |
ML |
782 |
(40) |
812 |
(43) |
275 |
(42) |
|
| Goulburn–Broken |
The Goulburn–Broken region is located in north-eastern Victoria (CSIRO 2008f). The main waterways are the Goulburn and Broken Rivers, with Lake Eildon a major water storage (map 10). The Broken River flows into the Goulburn River at Shepparton and the Goulburn River flows into the Murray River near Echuca. Groundwater is also an important source of irrigation water within the region.
Irrigation activity is concentrated in the north-west of the region with the main irrigation districts being the Central Goulburn Irrigation Area, centred around Kyabram, and the Shepparton Irrigation Area. The principal irrigation industries in the region include pasture and hay production (particularly for dairy cattle), horticulture, mixed grazing and broadacre cropping. Also, a number of broadacre farms in the region undertake a mix of irrigated and dryland cropping and livestock production.
The irrigation survey in Goulburn–Broken region targeted irrigators in the dairy, broadacre and horticulture industries. Of the target population, 45 per cent of irrigation farms were dairy farms, almost 40 per cent were broadacre farms and 16 per cent were horticulture farms.
Dairy farms
The average total area operated by irrigated dairy farms in the Goulburn–Broken region was 206 hectares (table 18). Of this total area operated, around 144 hectares were set up for irrigation with around 63 per cent of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. Pasture accounted for just less than 50 per cent of total area irrigated. The main crops irrigated were hay and silage. Smaller areas of cereal crops were also irrigated.
Irrigated dairy farms in the Goulburn–Broken region held an estimated 461 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 178 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 2 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income averaged around $5670 in 2006-07, however farm business losses of around $82 250 per farm were also recorded. Overall, irrigated dairy farms in the Goulburn–Broken region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around minus 1.5 per cent in 2006-07.
Broadacre farms
The average area operated by irrigated broadacre farms in the Goulburn–Broken region was around 405 hectares in 2006-07 (table 18). Around 110 hectares were set up for irrigation, with 63 per cent of this area irrigated in 2006-07. Pasture accounted for a third of total area irrigated. The main crops irrigated were hay and silage crops.
Irrigated broadacre farms in the Goulburn–Broken held an estimated 336 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 113 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 2 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for broadacre farms averaged around $17 870 in 2006-07 while farm business profit was negative at around $48 930 per farm. Overall, irrigated broadacre farms in the Goulburn–Broken region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around minus 0.9 per cent in 2006-07.
Horticulture farms
The average area operated by irrigated horticulture farms in the Goulburn–Broken region was around 280 hectares (table 18). Around 81 hectares were set up for irrigation with just more than 60 per cent of this area irrigated in 2006-07. Total crop area was 157 hectares of which 50 hectares (32 per cent of total crop area) were irrigated in 2006-07. The main crops irrigated were wine grapes and pome and stone fruits.
Irrigated horticulture farms in the Goulburn–Broken region held an estimated 285 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 199 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 4 megalitres a hectare.
Average farm cash income in 2006-07 was around $21 380 while farm business profit was negative at around minus $55 300. Overall, irrigated horticulture farms in the Goulburn–Broken region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 0.6 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 18 |
Selected estimates, Goulburn–Broken region, 2006-07
average per farm |
|
| |
|
|
dairy |
broadacre |
horticulture |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Area operated |
ha |
206 |
(15) |
405 |
(25) |
280 |
(41) |
| Sheep |
no. |
30 |
(87) |
582 |
(49) |
642 |
(63) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
21 |
(46) |
23 |
(47) |
25 |
(38) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
265 |
(15) |
54 |
(59) |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
144 |
(12) |
110 |
(20) |
81 |
(22) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
47 |
(18) |
46 |
(28) |
50 |
(17) |
| Area of non–irrigated crops |
ha |
21 |
(28) |
127 |
(36) |
107 |
(63) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
44 |
(26) |
23 |
(52) |
0 |
(98) |
| Water applied to crops and pasture |
ML |
178 |
(13) |
113 |
(25) |
199 |
(19) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
2 |
(10) |
2 |
(26) |
4 |
(11) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
428 171 |
(15) |
198 804 |
(27) |
682 485 |
(15) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
422 502 |
(16) |
180 929 |
(24) |
661 102 |
(17) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
5 669 |
(304) |
17 875 |
(84) |
21 383 |
(240) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
– 82 255 |
(23) |
– 48 929 |
(24) |
– 55 295 |
(97) |
| Rate of return |
% |
–1.5 |
(62) |
–0.9 |
(84) |
1 |
(260) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
369 588 |
(22) |
163 881 |
(44) |
747 178 |
(26) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
484 517 |
(26) |
161 755 |
(45) |
789 944 |
(28) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
2 343 762 |
(12) |
2 330 878 |
(16) |
3 326 452 |
(17) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
875 814 |
(13) |
588 913 |
(14) |
541 487 |
(16) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
63 |
(36) |
36 |
(59) |
48 |
(44) |
| Water right |
ML |
384 |
(12) |
271 |
(15) |
205 |
(13) |
| Sales water |
ML |
0 |
– |
0 |
– |
17 |
(69) |
| Other |
ML |
14 |
(66) |
28 |
(71) |
16 |
(64) |
|
| Total |
ML |
461 |
(25) |
336 |
(32) |
285 |
(30) |
|
| Loddon–Avoca |
The Loddon–Avoca region is located in north-central Victoria (CSIRO 2008g). The main waterways are the Loddon and Avoca Rivers, and the major water storage is Cairn Curran Reservoir (map 11). The Loddon River flows into the Murray River near Swan Hill while the Avoca River flows into a series of lakes and wetlands.
Irrigators in the Loddon–Avoca region draw heavily on supplies of surface water from the Murray and Goulburn systems via the Murray River and the Waranga Western Channels, respectively (North Central CMA 2003). Groundwater is also an important source of irrigation water in the south of the region. Most irrigation activity takes place in the north of the region, particularly around Boort and Pyramid Hill. The main irrigation industries in the region include pasture and hay production (particularly for dairy cattle), horticulture, and mixed cropping/grazing.
The irrigation survey in the Loddon–Avoca region targeted irrigators in the dairy, broadacre and horticulture industries. Almost 60 per cent of the target population of irrigation farms were broadacre farms with dairy and horticulture farms accounting for a further 20 per cent each.
Dairy farms
The average area operated by irrigated dairy farms in the Loddon–Avoca region was around 280 hectares in 2006-07 (table 19). Of this total area, around 210 hectares were set up for irrigation with 96 per cent of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. Pasture accounted for about half of the area irrigated, with the main irrigation crops being hay and silage crops.
Irrigated dairy farms in the Loddon–Avoca held an estimated 756 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 581 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 3 megalitres a hectare.
Average farm cash income for dairy farms in the Loddon–Avoca was $32 170 in 2006-07. Farm business profit averaged around minus $40 990. The average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) was zero in 2006-07.
Broadacre farms
The average area operated by irrigated broadacre farms in the Loddon–Avoca region was around 689 hectares in 2006-07 (table 19). Around 218 hectares were set up for irrigation, with 45 per cent of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. Pasture accounted for one-quarter of the total area irrigated. The main irrigated crop was hay with smaller areas of cereals and oilseeds.
Irrigated broadacre farms in the Loddon–Avoca held an estimated 566 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average total of 330 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 3 megalitres per hectare.
Broadacre farms recorded average farm cash income of around $97 290 a farm in 2006-07 but a small average farm business loss of around $1260. Overall, irrigated broadacre farms in the Loddon–Avoca region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 1.2 per cent in 2006-07.
Horticulture farms
The average area operated by irrigated horticulture farms in the Loddon–Avoca region was around 186 hectares, of which around 75 hectares were set up for irrigation in 2006-07 (table 19). Around one-quarter of the area set up for irrigation was irrigated in 2006-07, with main crops including vegetables, pome fruit, wine grapes as well as some hay crops.
Irrigated horticulture farms in the Loddon–Avoca region held an estimated 106 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 98 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of about 5 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for horticulture farms averaged around $52 120 in 2006-07 while average farm business profit was negative at around minus $19 030. Overall, irrigated horticulture farms in the Loddon–Avoca region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of minus 0.5 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 19 |
Selected estimates, Loddon–Avoca region, 2006-07
average per farm |
|
| |
|
|
dairy |
broadacre |
horticulture |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Area operated |
ha |
283 |
(11) |
689 |
(25) |
186 |
(49) |
| Sheep |
no. |
7 |
(92) |
1 186 |
(37) |
3 |
(98) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
24 |
(66) |
26 |
(56) |
0 |
– |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
340 |
(16) |
21 |
(104) |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
211 |
(17) |
218 |
(30) |
75 |
(45) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
99 |
(40) |
73 |
(41) |
20 |
(32) |
| Area of non–irrigated crops |
ha |
15 |
(71) |
242 |
(44) |
6 |
(75) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
104 |
(24) |
26 |
(48) |
0 |
– |
| Water applied to crops and pasture |
ML |
581 |
(18) |
330 |
(48) |
98 |
(39) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
3 |
(19) |
3 |
(17) |
5 |
(18) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
505 963 |
(19) |
314 425 |
(24) |
228 101 |
(25) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
473 791 |
(19) |
217 131 |
(26) |
175 978 |
(26) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
32 173 |
(50) |
97 294 |
(28) |
52 123 |
(72) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
– 40 990 |
(40) |
– 1 259 |
(2236) |
– 19 031 |
(194) |
| Rate of return |
% |
0 |
(2383) |
1.2 |
(88) |
–0.5 |
(396) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
416 284 |
(33) |
204 459 |
(56) |
124 183 |
(36) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
485 664 |
(32) |
215 287 |
(60) |
125 270 |
(37) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
3 238 460 |
(11) |
2 920 339 |
(23) |
2 039 291 |
(39) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
1 598 615 |
(14) |
1 009 322 |
(40) |
193 514 |
(40) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
90 |
(64) |
109 |
(97) |
34 |
(78) |
| Water right |
ML |
666 |
(13) |
458 |
(40) |
73 |
(40) |
|
| Total |
ML |
756 |
(42) |
566 |
(45) |
106 |
(63) |
|
| Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges |
The Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges is a small region located at the lower western edge of the Basin in South Australia (map 12). The main waterways within the region are the Marne, Angus and Bremer Rivers while the Murray River forms the eastern boundary (CSIRO 2007d).
The majority of irrigation surface water is sourced from the Murray River and Lake Alexandrina with groundwater and on-farm dams also used. Horticulture, particularly vine fruits, and pasture and hay production are the main irrigation activities.
The irrigation survey in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region targeted irrigators in the dairy and horticulture industries. Around 70 per cent of the target population of irrigation farms were horticulture farms and around 30 per cent were dairy farms.
Dairy farms
The average area operated by irrigated dairy farms in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region was around 400 hectares in 2006-07 (table 20). Of this area, 52 hectares were set up for irrigation with just less than 90 per cent of this area being irrigated in 2006-07. Pasture accounted for half of the total area irrigated. The main crops irrigated were lucerne and hay crops.
Irrigated dairy farms in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region held an estimated 325 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 205 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around 4 megalitres a hectare.
Farm cash income for irrigated dairy farms averaged $59 350 in 2006-07 while average farm business profit was around minus $7290. The average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) was 0.8 per cent in 2006-07.
Horticulture farms
The average area operated by irrigated horticulture farms in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region was about 110 hectares, of which around 61 hectares were set up for irrigation (table 20). Around 60 per cent of the area set up for irrigation was irrigated in 2006-07, with wine grapes being the main irrigated crop.
Irrigated horticulture farms in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region held an estimated 129 megalitres of water entitlements, comprised mainly of surface water rights. In 2006-07, these farms used an average of 112 megalitres of irrigation water, at an estimated rate of around
3 megalitres a hectare.
Average farm cash income for horticulture farms in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region was around $62 550 in 2006-07 and average farm business profit was around $8210. Overall, irrigated horticulture farms in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region recorded an average rate of return to capital and management (excluding capital appreciation) of around 2.1 per cent in 2006-07. |
| 20 |
Selected estimates, Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges region, 2006-07
average per farm |
|
|
|
|
broadacre |
horticulture |
|
|
|
|
|
| Area operated |
ha |
400 |
(29) |
110 |
(42) |
| Sheep |
no. |
0 |
– |
45 |
(71) |
| Beef cattle |
no. |
47 |
(30) |
5 |
(77) |
| Dairy cattle |
no. |
202 |
(22) |
0 |
– |
| Area set up for irrigation |
ha |
52 |
(26) |
61 |
(44) |
| Area of crops irrigated |
ha |
23 |
(49) |
37 |
(34) |
| Area of non-irrigated crops |
ha |
124 |
(38) |
17 |
(49) |
| Area of pasture irrigated |
ha |
23 |
(35) |
1 |
(108) |
| Water applied to crops |
|
|
|
|
| and pasture |
ML |
205 |
(25) |
112 |
(31) |
| Water application rate |
ML/ha |
4 |
(17) |
3 |
(14) |
|
| Total cash receipts |
$ |
302 187 |
(25) |
334 333 |
(32) |
|
| Total cash costs |
$ |
242 834 |
(25) |
271 786 |
(34) |
|
| Farm cash income |
$ |
59 354 |
(34) |
62 547 |
(46) |
| Farm business profit |
$ |
- 7 292 |
(232) |
8 212 |
(322) |
| Rate of return |
% |
0.8 |
(106) |
2.1 |
(63) |
| Farm business debt at 1 July |
$ |
348 307 |
(40) |
335 761 |
(33) |
| Farm business debt at 30 June |
$ |
268 599 |
(37) |
335 886 |
(33) |
| Farm capital at 30 June |
$ |
2 391 606 |
(17) |
2 043 740 |
(22) |
| Market value of water |
|
|
|
|
| entitlements held at 30 June |
$ |
765 204 |
(35) |
254 178 |
(26) |
|
|
|
|
|
| Groundwater |
ML |
3 |
(94) |
10 |
(42) |
| Surface water |
ML |
322 |
(35) |
119 |
(32) |
|
| Total |
ML |
325 |
(16) |
129 |
(32) |
|
| |
