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Case Study
Deploying Telemetry for Large-Scale, Modern Irrigation Infrastructure
"Great communication begins with connection" - Oprah Winfrey
Project
The Don Irrigation Scheme is a key component of Tasmania’s water infrastructure and delivers 4,750ML of summer water and 4750ML of winter water each year to farmers across the Don, Forth, Barrington and Sheffield districts.
As part of the initial Don Irrigation Project, a trial of alternative telemetry technology was undertaken. The technology tested was not sufficiently robust given the remote signal strengths across the scheme. As a result, Cromarty Automation was engaged to implement more contemporary and reliable telemetry solution to ensure successful system operation and dependable data acquisition.
Solution
Cromarty Automation was engaged to deliver a complete telemetry roll-out across the Don Irrigation Scheme where 72 telemetry units were installed. Our team designed, programmed, tested, installed and commissioned a modern standardised architecture, replacing existing equipment and adding additional sites with new low-power Ovarro LT2 T-Box units communicating directly with the state-wide SCADA system via 4G cellular comms. These installations were also supported by implementing upgraded solar and battery systems to maintain performance year-round.
The solution focused on building a consistent, scalable and secure telemetry fleet that integrates cleanly with Tasmanian Irrigation’s existing monitoring systems. Cromarty coordinated works around irrigation operations to minimise disruptions, ensured each site was validated before going live, and delivered full documentation and configuration management to support lifecycle maintenance.
Outcome
The Don Irrigation Scheme telemetry network now provides:
- Reliable real-time visibility of field assets across the scheme
- Improved data accuracy and system uptime through modernised equipment
- Reduced maintenance and easier long-term supportability due to consistent hardware and programming standards
- Greater operational resilience, supporting Tasmanian Irrigation’s commitment to sustainable and efficient water delivery across an agriculturally important region
The project has strengthened a critical irrigation scheme while giving Tasmanian Irrigation a unified, future-ready telemetry platform that will support ongoing digital transformation.
