Efficient irrigation systems in Victoria

Efficient irrigation systems in Victoria are driving smarter water use with matched pump and engine packages tailored for agriculture.

In Victoria’s farming regions, water is a critical asset, both scarce and essential. As growers seek to improve productivity while cutting costs, irrigation systems powered by matched pump and engine packages are gaining traction.

A collaboration between Industrial Power Systems (Volvo Penta), Pioneer Pump (Franklin Electric), and Cobram Pumping & Irrigation is helping Victorian producers streamline operations and use water more effectively.

Engineered for farm performance

Volvo Penta’s industrial diesel engines are well-suited to agricultural applications due to their durability, low fuel consumption, and ease of servicing.

“Volvo Penta engines are reliable, efficient and designed for a range of farming needs,” says Mick McGee, Industrial Power Systems Sales Manager.

“They’re adaptable across irrigation systems, with features like electronic controls, advanced fuel injection and simplified maintenance.”

For farmers in regional Victoria, having strong after-sales support is just as important as engine reliability.

“Our Derrimut base and dealership network across Victoria means fast access to servicing, repairs and parts,” says Mick. “When irrigation downtime isn’t an option, that support really matters.”

Pumps built to specification

Pioneer Pump pairs its centrifugal pumps with Volvo Penta engines to create high-performance irrigation packages suited to varied terrain and flow requirements.

Together, they handle high flow rates and head pressures with confidence, according to Zac Bosnar from Pioneer Pump.

“Our builds are tailored to duty requirements, and our team draws on over 140 years of combined experience,” Zac explains.

Based in Sunshine West, the Australian operations are geared for fast turnaround. With 200 pump ends in stock and a large assembly area, the company delivers custom-built systems quickly.

“We pride ourselves on flexibility – from trailers to skids, diesel sets to stainless-steel builds,” says Zac.

Field-tested irrigation solutions

For irrigation specialists like Cobram Pumping & Irrigation, proper system matching is crucial to achieving water efficiency.

“When pumps and motors are selected for the right pressure and flow, it reduces waste and energy use,” says Brenton Harrison, Cobram Pumping & Irrigation General Manager. “That’s crucial for automated systems like centre pivots.”

Farmers upgrading their irrigation systems are looking for more than just performance; they want reliability and lower costs over time.

“We work closely with growers to assess their needs and recommend solutions that fit,” explains Brenton. “It’s about long-term results, not short-term savings.”

Volvo Penta-powered pump systems have been praised for their consistent output, fuel efficiency, and compact design, which makes field installation easier. They’ve been described as reliable in tough conditions and simple to maintain.

“The number one question we get from our clients is always around the back-up service and maintenance requirements,” says Brenton. “On-site back-up service from our clients is generally expected within 24 hours if we can’t fix it over the phone.”

A unified approach to irrigation

All three companies emphasized that collaboration is the real difference- maker.

“Working together ensures every system component supports the others,” explains Mick. “That means better uptime, lower running costs and better yields.”

For Cobram Pumping & Irrigation, it’s about trust in both people and products.

“Volvo Penta, Pioneer Pump and our team all bring something valuable,” says Brenton. “When we align on goals, the farmer wins.”

The Industrial Power Systems team pride themselves on working closely with customers to ensure the right Volvo Penta product is match to the specific needs to each business.

Explore the Volvo Penta range here.

Article is also included in the Pump Industry Magazine.