The Irrigation Network Project

In August 2015 Townsville City Council invited for tenders to provide not just a physical on ground Audit of their irrigation assets. But also for their spatial data to be quality assured with a mobile works and maintenance management system. In order to enable nightly downloads of up-to-date data about their irrigation infrastructure.

Previously irrigation audits were completed through manual completion of paper records. Individual asset identification, for example, sprinklers, valves, pumps and controller assemblies were taken from paper plans (where available). As a result, were open to misinterpretation. Information was often missed in the field.

Iconyx was successful in winning the tender.

The Summit/CrestSX solution allowed users to electronically enter data directly in the field on moving maps. At the same time search and report on the data collected. As well as view their position relative to the asset in real-time. Thus linking the audit data directly to the GIS asset.

Digital forms were designed to simplify data capture to meet technical specs. Some data was read directly into the forms in the field by reading other GIS layers and previously known attributes into the form to speed the data entry. Specific libraries for each asset type and observation were created. In order to help the user to record the correct information in a consistent way.

Previously known or mapped assets could be quickly confirmed. Through location and attributes, conditions and recommendations for maintenance could be collated. In addition, assets found in the field could be quickly mapped or moved on the map to show the true location. With all required data recorded to be added to a comprehensive asset inventory which is much more accurate.

The dataset is exported from Summit on a nightly basis and delivered to a Townsville City Council FTP site to import the latest data into their Access-based asset management system.

By having access to dynamic geospatial intelligence on all the irrigation assets, managing the infrastructure was based on fact and evidence. Using accurate location, and information about each valve, pump, etc, allowed maintenance staff to quickly find the asset and subsequently review the history of that asset. In order to allow them to be already equipped with the appropriate parts. As a result saving time and money.

Furthermore, the product improved water efficiency by providing the framework for streamlined and standardised irrigation audit management. It enabled the adoption of data standards to capture information so that reporting and forecasting could also be benchmarked. It allowed for maintenance and upgrade planning. As well as the tracking of irrigation system performance over time. Through the ability to link and archive multiple audits.

The net result was a more efficient irrigation system. With recurring inspections and programmed maintenance through a coordinated response. By mapping and accurately knowing the status of the assets across the region. It saved time to travel or respond to maintenance issues. Thus ensuring the network was delivering optimal results.