The taps of the new $20.8 million Bega-Tathra Water Treatment Plant have officially been switched on, marking the historic completion of one of the largest water infrastructure projects on the NSW South Coast.
High grade drinking water is flowing to residents and businesses thanks to a $15.2 million investment from the NSW Government and $5.6 million from Bega Valley Shire Council.
The new state-of-the-art facility will cater for increased demand across the region, supplying up to 9.5 megalitres of high-grade drinking water to around 8,000 people each day across Bega, North Bega, Tarraganda, Kalaru, Tathra, Tathra River Estate and Mogareeka.
Drawing from local bores, the plant uses the latest treatment methods including ultrafiltration membrane technology to remove iron and manganese, which is commonly found in groundwater, followed by ultraviolet disinfection to ensure high quality water.
It's also equipped with telemetry to enable remote monitoring and more efficient operations, as well as being powered by 300 kilowatt solar panels to reduce the area's carbon footprint, making it one of the most environmentally friendly water treatment systems in the state.
After rigorous testing and commissioning over recent months, the new filtration plant is operating and servicing these seven communities, replacing the ageing one-step chlorination treatment process that was built over 30 years ago.
The project is funded under the NSW Safe and Secure Water Program which addresses at-risk water and wastewater infrastructure in regional towns across the state.
Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:
"The completion of this world-class water treatment plant is a game changer for Bega and surrounding communities, ensuring thousands of residents have access to high quality water for generations to come.
"We know long-term water security and quality are pressing issues for this popular and growing corner of the South Coast, which is why cutting the ribbon on this new filtration plant is a huge win and a credit to everyone involved.
"It's fantastic to see this long-anticipated project come to life, replacing an ageing system with a modern, future-proof one that will deliver the best quality drinking water straight to the taps of locals and visitors."
Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said:
"More than a million tourists come to this iconic region every year and for good reason - stunning scenery, pristine environments, fresh produce and a laid-back lifestyle, but with that comes challenges, including ensuring water infrastructure keeps up with growth.
"Add to the mix a less predictable climate and it was clear significant funding would be required to lock in water reliability for the future. That's exactly what we've done here.
"The Bega-Tathra Water Treatment Plant is smarter, more efficient and decked out with all the latest bells and whistles so it's ready to support the community for years to come."
Bega Valley Shire Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said:
"Council has the responsibility to ensure we have the right infrastructure and services in place to support community growth and visitor needs.
"This project is an example of working collaboratively to get things right. The project team has delivered a first-class upgrade to a vital facility and none of it would have been possible without the NSW Government's generous $15.2 million investment.
"Projects like this have a ripple effect. They not only enhance essential services but also support the local economy. I'd like to thank our contractor, Laurie Curran Water, for its commitment to using local suppliers and trade resources wherever possible to get the job done."
