The Ballarat South Wastewater Treatment Plant has undergone a $10 million upgrade, including the installation of a new clarifier.
A new aeration system has also been installed enabling optimum biological nutrient removal and a reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by over 30 per cent.
The upgrades improve the quality of water discharge to the creek and ensure environmental standards are met to minimise public health risks as demand on the system grows.
Victorian Minister for Water, Lisa Neville, said, “These upgrades mean better wastewater treatment services for Ballarat, and better outcomes for the environment.
“This will help meet the challenges of climate change and future population growth in Ballarat.”
The upgrade will help Central Highlands Water meet the demands of Ballarat’s growing population over the next 20 years.
Victorian Member for Wendouree, Sharon Knight, said, “Ballarat is a growing city, and these upgrades are crucial to meeting demand on water supplies into the future.”
Ballarat is one of the fastest growing cities in regional Victoria with its population expected to reach 139,600 people by 2031.
Central Highlands Water Managing Director, Paul O’Donohue, said, “This is great news for our customers, as they’ll now have some of the most modern and efficient wastewater treatment services available.”
