The Victorian Government has announced that early works are underway on the Dingley Recycled Water Scheme, which is set to deliver an additional 1.8GL of recycled water for communities and local businesses each year.
Member for Clarinda, Meng Heang Tak, launched the works on the $72 million integrated water management project with South East Water and stage one works delivery partner Abergeldie, BMD & KBR (ABK).
The 42km scheme is expected to bring recycled water to around 40 sites across Bayside, Kingston, Greater Dandenong and Monash, including local businesses, world-class golf courses, sports ovals and parks.
The first phase of works involves undertaking geotechnical investigations to complete the design and alignment of the new recycled water pipes, as well as ecological surveys and environmental site mapping.
The project is expected to generate $92 million for the local economy and support local communities with over 240 jobs for international golf tourism, agriculture and nursery businesses in the region.
Expanding recycled water infrastructure and providing a climate resilient source of water plays an important role in securing water supplies for the future, which is a key objective outlined in the government’s $56.6 million investment in the Central and Gippsland Region Sustainable Water Strategy.
The Victorian Government has contributed $24 million towards the Dingley Recycled Water Scheme, which is expected to start delivering recycled water by 2025.
The scheme is one of the first projects to be delivered under South East Water’s $1.5 billion investment in capital works projects over the next ten years.
South East Water Managing Director, Lara Olsen, said, “By expanding our recycled water network, we’re setting ourselves up for long-term water security while also making sure Melbourne stays a great place to live, work and play.”
ABK Program Director, Daniel Turcinovich, said, “Abergeldie, BMD & KBR is proud to be at the forefront of safeguarding Victoria’s water security as we commence works on the Dingley Recycled Water Scheme. Undertaking engineering feature surveys, geotechnical investigations, and contamination investigations prior to major construction activities is a wise investment that can lead to cost savings, improved safety, regulatory compliance, and overall project success. These early investigations provide valuable insights that enable informed decision-making and risk management throughout the project’s lifecycle.
“Abergeldie, BMD & KBR recognises the paramount importance of expanding recycled water infrastructure as a climate-resilient water source as this Program strives to maximise the use of alternative water sources. Our collaboration with South East Water marks a milestone as one of the inaugural projects under South East Water’s $1.5 billion capital works investment over the next decade, emphasising an innovative integrated works planning and delivery model. Abergeldie, BMD & KBR is honoured to contribute to this transformative endeavour that will shape Victoria’s water landscape for generations to come.”
City of Kingston Mayor, Jenna Davey-Burns, said, “We love our local communities and are passionate about future proofing our green open spaces that are so important for our wellbeing.
“Water is our most valuable resource and it’s great to be working with South East Water to make a huge change for the better. We are all partners in taking climate action and this is a great initiative.
“Whether it’s our green thumbs in our local nurseries and market gardens, our world class golf courses, or the thousands of locals chasing balls on our sportsgrounds, so many in Kingston will benefit from this scheme,” Ms Davey-Burns said.
Huntingdale Golf Club General Manager, Alex McGillivray, said, “Every year we welcome people from all over to experience our world-class golf courses which are dependant on a healthy and high-quality water source to thrive. We’re proudly part of the Melbourne Sandbelt group of Golf Clubs, known for their design, unique native heathland areas, immaculate fairways and greens.
“Tapping into recycled water, instead of using our drinking water supply, will not only help conserve Melbourne’s water and save our business costs, but it will also help us ensure that we’re welcoming global visitors to our golf courses for years to come, whether it be for globally televised tournaments or golfing holidays.”
Featured image: Representatives from South East Water, ABK, Victorian Government, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), City of Kingston Council, Melbourne Water and Dingley Village Community Association. Courtesy of South East Water.
