The northern Goldfields community of Warburton will have a reliable source of potable water with the completion of the Warburton Water Treatment Plant (WTP) this month.
The $3.4 million WTP project included the design, installation and commissioning of a fully functioning ultrafiltration system and reverse osmosis water treatment plant, along with other infrastructure including a wastewater pipeline and evaporation pond.
Warburton relies on water sourced from underground and this contains naturally-occurring elements such as nitrates that can affect water quality.
Nitrate levels in the community's drinking water have been safe as determined by Australian Drinking Water Guidelines for all residents other than infants under three months of age.
In accordance with Department of Health guidance, the State Government has provided free bottled water for bottle-fed infants under three months of age.
With the WTP project complete and the new plant in operation, bottled water will no longer need to be provided.
The Department of Communities has overseen the WTP project through its Remote Essential and Municipal Services program for regional and remote Aboriginal communities.
The Department is also undertaking the design, installation and commissioning of a new water treatment plant and infrastructure upgrades at Kiwirrkurra in the East Pilbara, widely considered to be the most remote community in Australia.
The State Government has been entirely responsible for the provision of essential services to remote communities since the Commonwealth Government withdrew from its role in the joint funding of power and water infrastructure and services.
As stated by Housing Minister John Carey:
"The McGowan Government is committed to improving the outcomes for people living in remote Aboriginal communities, and this $3.4 million water treatment plant will provide the people of Warburton with a reliable source of potable water moving forward.
"With this water treatment plant beginning operations, the provision of bottled water will no longer be required for bottle-fed infants under the age of three months which is a great outcome.
"The McGowan Government is making significant investments to improve water infrastructure in a number of remote Aboriginal communities, including a new water treatment plant and infrastructure upgrades at Kiwirrkurra in the East Pilbara, widely considered to be the most remote community in Australia."
