Barwon Water’s new Gellibrand Water Treatment Plant is taking shape, with several key features now in place.
Once completed, the new high-quality facility will service the Otways town and replace the current plant that is reaching the end of its operational life.
Barwon Water General Manager Planning, Delivery and Environment, Seamus Butcher, said the $10 million project would improve water quality and the operation of the plant.
“This major upgrade is part of our customer promise to continue to deliver high-quality and reliable water services across the region,” Mr Butcher said.
“The upgrade was one of our top ten projects in our 2018–23 Pricing Period, so we’re excited to see it coming to fruition.
“It will result in a more bushfire-resilient, reliable and efficient water treatment plant, which will serve the Gellibrand community for many years to come.”
Key milestones met since construction began in September 2023 include:
- Completion of a new bushfire-resilient treatment plant building, which is now being fitted out with mechanical equipment
- The installation of a new dissolved air filtration unit, set to become the primary water treatment system upon completion
- The upgrade of the site’s electrical supply, along with the installation of several underground assets, in preparation for planned infrastructure.
Gellibrand’s supply is sourced from Lardner Creek, which is brought up to water drinking standards at the Old Beech Forest Road treatment plant.
The existing plant continues to operate during construction. The new plant is on track to be completed by late 2025.
There will be no additional cost to Barwon Water customers, with the key project funded in Barwon Water’s 2018–23 Price Submission.
To learn more about the project, please visit Barwon Water’s website
Featured image: lkonya/shutterstock.com
