The new agency responsible for making sure irrigators and other water users are only taking their fair share has been getting around the region to remind landholders of their obligations.
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The NSW Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) was only established at the end of April, but chief regulator officer Grant Barnes said the organisation was keen to “let people know that NRAR is the new water agency on the block”.
“We’ve been getting out and about, supporting our staff as they get their boots on the ground, and reestablishing ourselves as a compliance enforcement agency,” he said.
“This is us touching base, broadening our appeal and our profile with irrigators, with graziers and with landholders in the region.
“We’ve been really pleased with the reception we’ve had. The welcomes have been really genuine, most of the landholders have been saying ‘it’s good to see you blokes out here’.”
Following the Four Corners investigation into water theft in the Murray Darling Basin, the state government undertook a number of reviews. From there a Water Reform Action Plan was formulated and a key component of that was the establishment of NRAR.
Mr Barnes said many irrigators were unhappy with the way the industry has been portrayed in the media.
“They feel the actions of a few have maligned the operations of the many,” he said.
“I can understand that. We know from the media there was a rogue element that have taken water that wasn’t their entitlement.
“But we do believe that is in the minority and the majority are complying with their obligations and have always done so.”
Mr Barnes said NRAR’s focus was “that of a fair regulator”, and most matters could be dealt through engaging with landholders and talking to them about their obligations.
“But on the occasions, where a firm hand is required, we do have the powers of sanction,” he said.
“NRAR has been given responsibility by the minister to enforce regulation laws and it’s up to us to take proceeding matters right the way through to prosecution.”