Victorians will have greater access to water during dry conditions thanks to the addition of 60 new emergency water supply points across the state.
Working with asset owners and local communities, the Victorian Government reviewed the state’s emergency water supply point network to identify opportunities for improvement. This resulted in critical upgrades and repairs to existing sites, as well as the establishment of new locations where needed.
Victoria’s network of emergency water supply points provide water for emergency domestic and stock purposes during severe dry conditions and surface water scarcity.
These water supply points are largely managed by councils and water corporations who can ensure that the infrastructure meets community needs and is fit for purpose.
In recent years Southern Rural Water has delivered state-funded emergency water supply point infrastructure across bushfire-affected communities in five council areas (Cardinia, Colac-Otway, Nillumbik, Corangamite and South Gippsland). This involved completing works at 12 sites including new bores, solar pumps, tanks and upgrades to existing standpipes with dual hydrant risers.
Southern Rural Water Managing Director Scott Cornish said a reliable emergency water supply point network is critical to providing emergency domestic and stock water during dry conditions or extreme weather events.
“Emergency water infrastructure helps communities withstand and respond to the challenges of prolonged dry conditions,” Mr Cornish said.
“These bores fill critical gaps in the emergency water supply network, providing more reliable access to water when conditions are at their toughest.”
To find out where your nearest emergency water supply point is visit: https://www.water.vic.gov.au/for-agriculture-and-industry/emergency-water-supply-points