This week water has again caused a stir in agricultural and political circles after a Four Corners program aired.  The buy backs and the investment by Government with tax payer dollars is coming under increased scrutiny, by the media and activists. Water security is the backbone of sustainable agriculture and competition for water is fierce for survival with water auctions both online and in-room creating interest from irrigators and investors.
Stories coming out that people sold water to the project, received a subsidy for earthworks, and subsequently purchased the water back at a lesser rate.
All parties involved will follow the sale of the water entitlements in the Barwon – Darling Unregulated River Water Source Zone being offered to the market by a consortium of farming families.
The $13 billion dollar Federal Government scheme is going to be in the news for a long time to come with opinions strongly divided on the benefits for the environment or the agricultural industry.
The Taroom district property  went to auction today and competition was very strong with numerous parties competing. The well-developed brigalow country comprised 3,185 hectare (7,871 acres) sold under the hammer for $13.9 million which equates to $1,765 per acre. Early access for 600 head was available to the successful purchaser. Grass is still selling properties!