Gippsland Water invests $20 million in water security and growth
Gippsland Water’s efforts to shore up future water supplies and support growth in central and west Gippsland were highlighted in its 2018/19 annual report, tabled in parliament this month.
Managing director Sarah Cumming said the water corporation’s targeted capital investment of $20 million during 2018/19 was vital amid changing climatic conditions and rapid population growth to the west.
“We completed the final link in a project to interconnect the Moe and Warragul water systems – an 8.3km pipeline from Darnum to Warragul.
“When this pipeline is activated later this year, we will be able to transfer water in between the Moe system and the Tarago system which supplies Warragul and Drouin – helping to secure the water supply in the west of our region.”
Work commenced on a new outfall sewer pump to support future growth in Sale, Wurruk and Fulham while upgraded water mains in Traralgon’s east are expected to underpin future development.
A major upgrade at Tanjil River pump station also helped to secure future water supplies for Moe, Newborough, Yallourn North, Trafalgar and Yarragon residents.
Other highlights included the installation of solar panels at key sites to reduce its carbon footprint and the use of virtual reality technology to identify safety hazards in the early design phase of projects.
Ms Cumming said the organisation had also increased its focus on supporting local communities throughout the year.
“We created opportunities for disadvantaged job-seekers, strengthened our partnership with traditional owners, and put local jobs first by using Gippsland contractors to reinvest $3.5 million locally and create new roles.”
“Through our revamped community support program, we helped Gippsland Rotary Centenary House at Latrobe Regional Hospital to buy a rainwater tank; the Mirboo North Golf Club to upgrade their course’s irrigation; and Sale-based program BugBlitz to educate children on waterway health.”
Gippsland Water’s 2018/19 annual report is available here.
