Team profile: Paul Blumer

Part of our Asset Performance Team, Paul Blumer is an accomplished Field Hydrographer. He is responsible for hydrometric gauging and surveys for the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA). His work and contribution support the delivery of irrigation water and drainage services that help to create one of the most diverse and highly productive agricultural regions in Australia.

Paul holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science, majoring in Resource Management and recently undertook a Diploma of Water Industry Operations (Hydrometric Monitoring) which he says, “has completely altered his career trajectory, enabling new challenges and experiences with MI”.

Paul works with a strong team at MI, including data scientists, field operators, and systems engineers. He credits his colleague and mentor Sam Yenamandra (Manager, Asset Strategy & Performance) for his professional achievements, particularly in the asset performance space. Here, Paul is exposed to new learning skills and is constantly offered challenges and opportunities to develop ways to expand his field of expertise.

Paul was instrumental in installing and commissioning hydrometric sites along Mirrool Creek and Main Drain J, which involved developing ratings on previously unmeasured sites. This data was used to inform management of water in conjunction with the local flood authorities to prevent impacts to the community.

When asked what is next for MI and the hydrometric monitoring industry more broadly, Paul says, “the use of drones and AI is going to be prevalent”. Technology that has already been introduced is already eliminating need and dependency on cableway installation.

MI looks forward to watching Paul and his incredible team continue to revolutionise and lead the hydrometric monitoring industry in the MIA.