Works have begun on an upgrade to an important section of the South West Loddon water supply project at Korong Vale in north western Victoria, which will include a pump station, storage tank and new pipeline to improve the state’s water grid.
The Victorian Government is investing $40 million towards the $80.6 million project which will secure water supply to communities, households and farmers in the South West Loddon region.
Victorian Minister for Water, Lisa Neville, said, “By further developing the Victorian Water Grid we’re providing the investment and infrastructure needed to protect communities against the harsh effects of climate change.”
More than 600 rural properties will be connected across 160,000 hectares.
The region has previously experienced an extended period of extremely dry conditions.
Construction of 40km of the northern trunk main has now commenced, with the completed project to include 1,300km of new pipeline.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has also been signed between traditional owners and Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water as part of the project.
“We’re also ensuring Aboriginal communities in the South West Loddon region are actively involved in this project to help expand the state’s water grid,” Ms Neville said.
The MoU signed between the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DDWDAC) and GWMWater recognises the importance of indigenous communities in the project area.
It addresses the impact of construction on cultural heritage and promotes open communication and cooperation to help expand the state’s water grid.
Construction and commissioning of the pipeline is expected to be completed in 2019.
