Ownership of water will be a key theme at the 61st National Conference presented by the Murray Darling Association. The conference will be held at the RSL Club in Dubbo, New South Wales. The conference theme and program will explore the current topic of water ownership and the likely impact of the proposed separation of water and land titles across the Murray Darling Basin.
Rate revenue for Local Government is currently based on water and land being linked. A major challenge facing Local Government is how to maintain services to the community where some Councils are likely to have a lower rate base.
Water trading is inevitable, so keeping that commodity within community boundaries is one means by which Local Government can maintain the viability of communities. Transferring water use to higher value crops will also be discussed.
The 61st National Conference will commence on the 7 September with a civic reception on the Wednesday evening. Other activities include the official dinner, the Annual General Meeting, a tour of the local area, a partner tour, and a post conference tour on Saturday.
Conference speakers include Dr Wendy Craik, Chief Executive of the Murray Darling Basin Commission, Dan Berry, Regional Director of State Water and Bruce McCollum, Chief Executive Officer of Border Rivers Food and Fibre.
For further information contact the Murray Darling Association on Adelaide (08) 8226 0582 or Albury (02) 6021 3655, or visit the web site at www.mda.asn.au
