Supply projects gain impetus

M“With an increased number of tourists travelling through our towns recently, having access to drinking water is important, not just during their visit but in their considerations should they be looking for a tree change” – Mark Williams

omentum is gathering to upgrade urban water supplies at Kaniva, Moyston, Elmhurst and Ultima.

When upgrades are complete, people in each of the towns will have access to safe and reliable drinking water.

The upgrades are part of Gwmwater’s 2018-2023 Water Plan.

Gwmwater went to tender last week for a contractor to undertake design and construction of a Kaniva facility, which will support provision of drinking water and improved pressure for the town’s industrial estate.

Following that it will release tenders for detailed design and construction works for the Kaniva and Moyston drinkingwater pipelines.

Gwmwater has appointed CHS Group as contractor to construct a new watertreatment facility at Elmhurst, and has plans for broader community consultation and information sessions in coming months.

Works to provide drinking water to Ultima in the Mallee are progressing, with construction underway at both Ultima and Swan Hill, while the installation of pipeline between each site is nearing completion.

Gwmwater managing director Mark Williams said reliable drinking-water supplies would boost the liveability and future growth of the towns and open opportunities for tourism and industry in the region.

“Fully treated drinking-water supplies mean businesses no longer need to rely on packaged water for drinking and food preparation; they can quickly and easily access quality water straight from the tap,” he said.

“With an increased number of tourists travelling through our towns recently, having access to drinking water is important, not just during their visit but in their considerations should they be looking for a tree change.”

Gwmwater representatives met Kaniva Progress Association members last week to provide a high-level overview of project aims and plans ahead of appointing a contractor.

Kaniva is the largest town in Victoria without drinking-water supply.

Gwmwater has planned similar consultation to start in Moyston in the near future and people in Elmhurst can expect direct communication outlining project information during the next two weeks.