Water tight
WATER security is locked in for Korumburra, Poowong, Loch and Nyora.
The completion of the $43 million Lance Creek Water Connection Project means a significant water boost for these towns, which have suffered water restrictions for several years.
The project was completed six months ahead of schedule and under budget.
Victorian Minister for Water Lisa Neville turned on the pump on Tuesday, September 25.
Ms Neville said she was confident this water security will last until 2058.
“This is the best way to respond to drought. It is not just about providing drought relief when we are in drought, it is about preventing drought and maximising every drop,” she said.
“Without water security, you don’t grow jobs, you don’t grow your businesses, people don’t invest and people don’t move to communities without water.
“I’m thrilled to be back here to look at what has been achieved and I look forward to the summers ahead where you are not on water restrictions.”
As part of the project, Bass Coast towns that are already connected to the state’s water grid – Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson and Inverloch – have had their connection tested and commissioned.
The project will have flow on benefits for local businesses and employers such as Burra Foods, which employs more than 180 local staff and purchases milk from more than 160 supply partners.
“Connecting these communities and businesses to this water supply is about securing this region for the future,” Ms Neville said.
Ms Neville confirmed there should be no additional cost to customers, as water prices have been set for the next two years due to the project being delivered on time and well within budget.
Victorian Eastern Region MLC Harriet Shing said this was a wonderful outcome for the local communities and farming families.
“This project is a really significant investment to ensure we can meet population growth and take care of the needs of industries and primary producers now and into the future,” she said.
“Farming families and communities have been calling for this level of security for some time. Water is absolutely the key priority for primary producers. We have enormous capacity to produce large volumes of premium product and this will enable that to continue well into the future, as well as securing our export opportunities.”
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