December 25th, 2021Kyneton famers to reap benefits

Kyneton farmers and businesses will soon have access to recycled water, following construction of a 13-kilometre recycled water pipeline project.

Once complete the $7.5 million pipeline will extend north east of the Kyneton Water Reclamation Plant providing up to 300 megalitres per annum of recycled water to irrigate 60 hectares of previously dry farmland – and contributing to a healthier Campaspe River.
The new pipeline is part of Coliban Water’s Kyneton Solutions Project, which is upgrading storage and treatment facilities at the Kyneton Water Reclamation Plant to cater for the region’s growth and protect the Campaspe River by reducing the likelihood of emergency discharges during wet weather events.
As part of the project, the Andrews Labor Government secured $3.75 million from the Commonwealth Government’s National Water Grid Authority, with the remainder funded by Coliban Water.
The Crofton Park property will be the first to benefit from the new pipeline following an EOI process, land capability assessment and a commitment from the owner to partner long-term with Coliban Water.
Under the agreement on-farm infrastructure will be installed, including pivot irrigators, pumps, pipes and land preparation, which will provide water security for summer crops.
Once the project is complete and the first customer is up and running, approved agriculture customers located along the pipeline will be connected for irrigation purposes. For more information on the project visit: connect.coliban.com.au/kyneton-solutions-project
The project is part of the Water for Victoria plan, which sets out new long-term direction for managing Victoria’s precious water resources to meet the challenges of climate change and population growth. For more information on Water for Victoria visit: water.vic.gov.au/water-for-victoria
Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“Our investment in new water infrastructure is providing more water for agriculture purposes, creating rural jobs and supporting long-term productivity for farmers in the face of climate change.”
Minister for Water Lisa Neville said:
“We’re thrilled to be investing in local projects that will provide water security for farmers and the agriculture sector – giving them confidence to grow their businesses in times of lower-than-average rainfall.”
Coliban Water Managing Director Damian Wells said:
“Coliban Water is proud to be supporting agricultural productivity for the region through this new pipeline project, ensuring we get great value from the reclaimed water resource.”