Southern Rural Water has built new emergency water bores at Bradvale Recreation Reserve and Derrinallum Recreation Reserve to help local communities in dry conditions.
The new bores in the Corangamite Shire Council area are operational and ready to supply communities with water for domestic and stock needs in severe drought and CFA firefighters during bushfires.
Known as emergency water supply points, these new bores will be added to Victoria’s existing network.
Southern Rural Water is delivering the Emergency Water Supply Points Project, which has received funding through the Victorian Government’s $2.7 billion Building Works Stimulus Package and the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Connections Pathway.
Southern Rural Water Managing Director Cameron FitzGerald said the project will help safeguard lives and livelihoods.
“With dry conditions being experienced across many parts of Victoria this summer, it’s vital we strengthen our emergency water infrastructure to better prepare communities for these conditions,” Mr FitzGerald said.
“These bores help plug gaps identified in the emergency water supply points network and give residents and emergency services increased access to water during tough times,” Mr FitzGerald said.
Bradvale Recreational Reserve Committee President Josh Mills said the new bore gives the community more security during dry times.
“We’re really happy with this project because anything you can do to increase water supply in rural areas is a good thing,” he said.
“Southern Rural Water has been quick to answer any questions we’ve had throughout the process, and we’re looking forward to being able to pump water when we need it.”
Derrinallum Recreation Reserve Committee President Dirk Morrison said the new bore is a brilliant initiative and will be well utilised this season.
“The new bore will be a lifeline to community members who are struggling with water supply.”
“It’s in a great location and gives local CFA crews more options to help respond to bushfires quicker.”
The bores built in Bradvale and Derrinallum join several others being delivered by Southern Rural Water in other areas across Victoria. These include Christmas Hills, St Andrews, Strathewen, Bayles and Seaton.
All bore locations have been selected based on groundwater information, suitability for construction, and community needs, which have been informed by extensive engagement with the people they will serve.
