A meter on a G-MW irrigation channel.
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Goulburn-Murray Water began automating its network around the turn of the millennium, installing telemetered meters and flume gates that allowed water deliveries to be altered and monitored automatically.
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In the intervening years, G-MW’s system has become increasingly automated.
However, one obstacle has been the limited network coverage in the more remote parts of the authority’s diversions regions.
Previously, G-MW staff have had to manually read meters in these areas, visiting the meter in-person to inspect it and record its data.
G-MW Operational Technology and Automation project manager Andrew Northey said this could soon change.
“In recent years, there have been significant improvements in telemetry technologies,” Mr Northey said.
“This includes narrow band telemetry, that can function in some areas beyond the reach of mobile coverage.
“We have closely followed the development of this technology and have now carried out extensive trials using new telemetry equipment on our meters.
“The results have been very positive, and we are now set to begin rolling this equipment out across our delivery network.
“The new equipment will enable customers to access accurate and up-to-date readings, which will help them manage their water entitlements.
“It will also enable us to remotely read meters that we previously could only read manually, which will be hugely beneficial.”
Improvements in telemetry technologies are changing how G-MW operates its meters.
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Reading and monitoring meters remotely helps improve compliance, as G-MW can identify any overuse far quicker than if meters were read manually.
The upgraded telemetry would also enable G-MW to receive up-to-date data on the conditions of its meters, ensuring ageing assets can be replaced before they fail.
Water Delivery Services general manager Warren Blyth said this was good news for customers.
“We make a concerted effort to embrace technology and innovation to improve productivity,” Mr Blyth said.
“Real-time access to accurate usage records benefits customers, helping them manage their available remaining allocation effectively.
“Adopting this new technology will also create considerable savings, as it will help us be far more efficient in how we collect data from meters and ensure compliance.”
Rollout of the new telemetry technology has begun, with 80 meters on the Murray River downstream of Barmah being upgraded.
The project will continue to expand over the coming years.
G-MW is responsible for water storage and delivery in a region about the same size as Tasmania.
