By Staff Writer

Councils and shires from across New South Wales have gathered in Deniliquin to debate and discuss water buybacks and reform of local water utilities.

More than 150 delegates have attended the 2009 Local Government and Shires Associations’ Water Management Conference to explore the latest policy developments and industry trends.

Shires Association president Bruce Miller said water management and conversation remained a top priority for local government.

“Regardless of what part of the state we belong to, water management issues are issues across all spheres of government.," Cr Miller said.

Over the next two days, delegates will hear from a number of expert speakers including Murray-Darling Basin Authority chief executive Robert Freeman, Richard McLoughlin from the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, and Murray Irrigation Limited chair Stewart Ellis.

Delegates will also take part in site visits showcasing the regions irrigation infrastructure and water-efficient farms.

The NSW Water Directorate has also scheduled a discussion forum on the Local Water Utilities Inquiry, water conservation, and climate change.