Essential work is underway to replace a key section of the main water supply pipeline into Bairnsdale in Victoria’s west.
This follows leaks detected in the ageing section of steel water pipeline running across the bed of the Mitchell River at the Lind Bridge, Wy Yung. These were traced to welded joints located below the river level that had deteriorated under the impact of some major floodwater events.
Recently a tunnel 300 metres long and 1.5 metres wide was drilled under the bed of the river to take a replacement section of pipeline constructed of high density polyethylene, which has been successfully pulled through. Trenches are being dug that will enable this section to be connected into the water supply network.
For a brief period an alternative pipeline will be brought into operation to ensure an uninterrupted supply of water to Bairnsdale customers while the connection is being made.
This will complete a significant engineering project designed to ensure a secure, reliable drinking water supply into town is maintained for the long-term future.
Bairnsdale-based BPR Trenching and Boring are carrying out the work on East Gippsland Water’s behalf, with the local office of AECOM employed as project manager. Completion is expected before the end of the year (2013).
