Recycling water for a green Victoria

The Andrews Government is investing in more sustainable water sources, such as recycled water, to keep parks and sporting facilities green while saving drinking water.

Harriet Shing, Minister for Water, announced $4.9 million across nine projects as part of the Integrated Water Management Grants program, including $1.3 million for the Monterey Recycled Water Scheme in Frankston North.

The Frankston community will benefit from the 2.3 km pipeline which will deliver 73 megalitres of recycled water to three public sites, including football, cricket and soccer grounds and The National Golf Club – Long Island.

“Investment in recycled water infrastructure will deliver a secure water supply for open spaces to remain green during dry spells — creating better recreational outcomes for local communities,” Shing said. “Building the new pipeline will diversify our water sources, helping to secure sustainable water supplies for our growing population.”

The pipeline may be extended in future to support local schools and additional community spaces and sporting facilities.

The Monterey Recycled Water Scheme will cost a total of $4 million, part funded by South East Water, Frankston City Council and The National Golf Club – Long Island. It is expected to be complete in 2024.

The funding is part of the government’s $56.6 million investment towards the Central and Gippsland Region Sustainable Water Strategy, which sets out a long-term plan to improve water security, livability and waterway health for the next 50 years.

Projects funded:

• Monterey Recycled Water Scheme — $1,332,500
• Muddy Gates Stormwater Harvesting Scheme — $1,400,000
• Myuna and Betula Reserve Stormwater Harvesting Scheme — $570,000
• Apollo Bay Golf Course Recycled Water supply — $450,000
• Mt Baw Baw Recycled Water Project — $115,000
• Reconfiguring the Werribee system business case project — $510,000
• Large Scale Alternative Water Grid – South-east: Business Case development — $150,000
• Surf Coast Hinterland Concept Design and Business Case (Stage 1 Large-Scale Recycled Water and Stormwater Grid) — $248,000
• Stormwater Harvesting in Northern and Western Geelong Growth Area – Concept Design — $150,000
   

Image credit: iStock.com/tuachanwatthana