The $5.5 million Wyangala Water Treatment Plant in Central West NSW has been completed and is now set to deliver up to 800,000 litres of clean drinking water daily.
The new plant has been delivered thanks to a 50/50 partnership between the Australian Government, through its National Water Grid Fund, and the NSW Government.
“We’re committed to delivering safer and more reliable drinking water for small communities like Wyangala to ensure they have the infrastructure they need to lock-in clean and healthy water for decades to come,” said NSW Minister for Water, Rose Jackson.
“The new water treatment plant has the latest technology so that locals can feel confident they’re always getting top notch drinking water whenever they turn on their taps.
“This project is a win for everyone – investing in water infrastructure improves the liveability of our regional towns, attracting more visitors and boosting the local economy.”
The village’s households were previously connected to an older treatment plant built in 1995. Residents were forced to boil water from 2017 because it did not meet Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
Now, treated drinking water will be piped to both the township and the local holiday park, which hosts thousands of people every year.
The plant is owned and operated by Cowra Shire Council.
“We would like to thank the Australian and NSW Governments for their support and collaboration by delivering a new water treatment plant that is fit for the 21st century,” said Cowra Shire Mayor, Paul Smith.
“We are delighted to be part of this upgrade and are looking forward to offering a clean water supply to Wyangala residents.
“It will make a big difference for visitors to the Lake Wyangala recreation area as they have not had potable water in the past, and we hope it will help attract more visitors to this special corner of the Shire.”
The project contractor Enviro Pacific Services employs one third of its workforce locally and supported 17 local businesses during the construction of the plant.
“Across Australia, about 600,000 people live in places without access to clean drinking water. That’s unacceptable,” said Federal Minister for Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek.
“All communities must have access to clean, safe drinking water – including small communities like Wyangala.”
