Frankston City is set to install a new pipeline which will deliver high quality recycled water to green spaces within Frankston, including sports grounds, open space and a world-class golf course.
Victorian Minister for Water, Harriet Shing, announced $1.3 million in funding towards the Monterey Recycled Water Scheme in Frankston North.
Ms Shing said 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.
“Building the new pipeline will diversify our water sources, helping to secure sustainable water supplies for our growing population,” Ms Shing said.
The new 2.3km pipeline will deliver a climate resilient water source of 73ML each year to three public sites, including football/cricket and soccer grounds and The National Golf Course – Long Island. There are also opportunities in the future to support local schools, additional community spaces and sporting facilities.
Frankston City Mayor, Nathan Conroy, said, “Monterey Recycled Water Scheme demonstrates Council’s commitment towards delivering more efficient and sustainable water sources to recreation reserves and open spaces.
“We are thrilled to be working with the Victorian Government and key stakeholders towards the irrigation of local parklands, reserves and sports grounds in Frankston City through this joint investment.
“Saving our precious drinking water is essential to building community resilience and will ensure our community has ongoing access to green open spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities all year round.”
Investment in sustainable sources of recycled water will keep green spaces healthy to support the liveability of a growing population while saving Frankston’s drinking water.
Managing Director South East Water, Lara Olsen, said recycled water projects help build resilience into our water systems before customers are affected and strengthen our entire water supply network.
“These important projects ultimately help our local communities by providing for ongoing access to sportsgrounds, golf courses and green open spaces, which we know are so important for the physical and mental wellbeing of the community,” Ms Olsen said.
The funding is part of the $56.6 million Victorian Government investment to support the delivery of the Central and Gippsland Region Sustainable Water Strategy. The strategy sets out Frankston City’s long-term plan to improve water security, liveability, and waterway health for the next 50 years.
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. Recycled water is expected to become available by Spring 2024.
The National Golf Club CEO, Matthew Corby, said, “Water is the lifeline of any golf club. The Monterey project will provide The National with a level of security about future water supply at Long Island which allows it to plan and invest with confidence.
“The renovation of the Long Island course, commencing later this year, will link a number of fairways, increasing the area of grass coverage substantially. Access to a reliable supply of recycled water is key to the success of that project.
“The National is proud to be partnering on this exciting and positive initiative.”
Feature image: (L-R) – South East Water Liveable Water Solutions General Manager, Charlie Littlefair; Frankston City Council Director Infrastructure and Operations, Cam Arullanantham; Frankston City Mayor, Cr Nathan Conroy; South East Water Group Manager Resource Recovery, Vanessa Lenihan; The National Golf Club – Long Island CEO, Matthew Corby; Minister for Water, Harriet Shing; South East Water Non-Executive Director and Chair of Iota, Gabrielle Bell; South East Water Managing Director, Lara Olsen and Member for South Eastern Metropolitan, Michael Galea. Supplied by South East Water.
