Learn more about water quality improvements in Heywood, Portland and Port Fairy

People will soon have an opportunity to hear more about plans to improve the water quality in Portland, Heywood and Port Fairy.

We’re holding community information sessions in the three towns to explain the project, known as Quality Water for Wannon.

Program manager Tom Scarborough said the project team would be available to answer any questions and listen to feedback.

“Over the past year, we’ve been finalising information for the planning and approvals process, including meeting with the Glenelg and Moyne Shire Councils, Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority and local health services,” Mr Scarborough said.

“We’ve also been working on Cultural Heritage Management Plan assessments in consultation with Eastern Maar and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner corporations.”

Mr Scarborough said while the water was safe to drink and the supply very reliable, many people didn’t like the taste and used bottled or tank water instead. “The high mineral content also creates build-up on appliances and fittings, meaning increased maintenance and replacement costs for residents and businesses.”

We expect to award the tender for the design and construction of the reverse osmosis plants early next year. Portland’s will be constructed on a site at the corporation’s Bald Hill facility while the Heywood plant will be on a greenfield site on Catons Flat Road, opposite the existing water treatment plant. The Port Fairy facility will be located at the town’s water treatment plant on the western side of town

Mr Scarborough invited interested people to drop in to one of the information sessions, share their feedback and ask questions. They’re being held at the:

• Heywood Bakery on Friday 10 October from 9am to 12.30pm and Saturday 11 October between 10.30am and 1.30pm.
• Portland Library on Friday 17 October from 9am to 10.30am and 12.30pm – 2pm and on
  Saturday 18 October from 10 am to 1pm.
• Port Fairy Library on Friday 24 October from 10am-1pm and 3pm-5pm, and on
  Saturday 25 October from 10am-12 noon.

People can find our more information at engage.wannonwater.com.au

Quality Water for Wannon is being delivered by the Australian Government, through its National Water Grid Fund, and Wannon Water, who will deliver the project on behalf of its customers and the Victorian Government.