An $11 million drought security project at Walcha is complete, delivering a 300ML off-stream storage dam, pump station and pipelines to boost the water supply and quadruple the town’s water reserves.
The project was funded by $2 million from the Federal Government through its National Water Grid Fund and $9 million from the New South Wales Government.
The New South Wales Minister for Water, Rose Jackson, said, “Completing this major water security infrastructure project will provide four times Walcha’s current water storage, giving the town more water to lean on during the next dry period.
“It is great to see the new 300ML off-creek storage dam, which is now filled and ready to offset any impacts on water supply as required in times of drought.”
Increasing water storage will strengthen the community’s ability to weather a drier climate and provide a safer and more secure pipeline of water.
At the peak of the last drought in 2019, Walcha’s 3,000 residents were put on lengthy and severe water restrictions when supplies hit rock bottom.
Walcha Mayor, Eric Noakes, said, “We would like to thank the Federal and New South Wales Governments for their support in delivering state-of-the-art infrastructure to help future-proof Walcha’s water supplies.
“We copped the brunt of the last drought with the town being subject to tough water restrictions over many months, so that was a real wake-up call for us, which is why this infrastructure is so critical in enabling us to be better prepared for this next one.”
The new water infrastructure delivered on time and on budget will help bolster the town’s drought resilience and long-term water security.
The Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, added, “The threat of climate change for regional communities like Walcha is genuine, and we know droughts are becoming more extreme and frequent.
“The Federal Government’s top priority is to secure safe and clean drinking water for communities across the country, including in regional Australia.
“This $11 million water infrastructure project safeguards Walcha’s access to drinking water for decades to come, even during prolonged dry periods, and provides more certainty for residents and businesses.”
Separately from this project, the New South Wales Government joined forces with the Walcha Council to fund a $1.8 million sewerage network upgrade, which was completed in February 2024. It included the construction of a new 20ML storage pond, as well as site improvements and upgrades to other existing infrastructure.
“Water security is always front and centre for regional towns like Walcha, which is why the New South Wales Government is committed to continuing to deliver infrastructure that will lock in safer and more secure water in the face of a drying climate,” Ms Jackson said.
“Completing the sewerage network upgrade is a bonus and will play a major part in supporting the growth of Walcha while providing greater protections for the environment.”
Image: Alexander/stock.adobe.com
