Major pipeline for Warragul and Drouin growth

Gippsland Water is starting construction on a major new water main to help meet the future needs of Warragul and Drouin.

Managing director Sarah Cumming said a $4 million contract had been awarded to construct the Warragul western ring main, with works due to kick off this month.

“The western ring main is one in a series of initiatives underway to help to provide a more secure water supply for the growing towns.

“It will deliver more water to Drouin and link it to the Moe-Warragul interconnect, creating a second source.

“It will also enable us to carry out maintenance on the existing main without interrupting our customers’ water supply,” Ms Cumming said.

The 4.3 kilometre pipeline will run north-west from Butlers Track to the railway crossing on Lardners Track.

Ms Cumming said Gippsland Water is working with Traditional Owners to protect cultural heritage values along the route and taking steps to protect the local environment.

“We’ve completed studies to look for and protect Giant Gippsland Earthworms, Warragul Burrowing Crayfish and Strzelecki Gums.

“The route will focus on previously disturbed areas, like road reserves, and we’ll use underground boring to minimise disruption and protect local plants and wildlife.”

Measures will also be taken to minimise impact on the community and local traffic.

“While we don’t expect any major disruptions, we’re asking the local community to please take care around the works and obey safety signs,” Ms Cumming said.

The project is expected to be complete by late 2023.

For more information about Gippsland Water’s major projects, visit www.gippswater.com.au/warragul-western-ring-main