Funding Secured for Urbenville Water Supply Project

Photo by Tenterfeld Shire

By Jeff Gibbs

The NSW Government has committed nearly $2 million to fnalize the Urbenville, Muli Muli, Woodenbong Water Supply Project, enhancing water quality for the three villages.

This investment, part of the NSW Drought Fund, will bring the project to completion by December this year. It complements $1.42 million from the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund and $100,000 from Tenterfeld Shire and Kyogle councils.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn emphasized that the NSW contribution will support the expansion of the Urbenville Water Treatment Plant, boosting its capacity from 600 to 700 people and improving water quality and reliability.

“The plant, built in 2010, requires an upgrade to meet modern raw water treatment standards,” she stated.

The upgrade includes the construction of two new clarifer lagoons to pre-treat raw water from Tooloom Creek, ensuring the plant can maintain high water quality even during periods of poor raw water conditions.

The frst stage of the project, which includes a new bore and storage tanks, has been completed, providing a critical lifeline during extreme droughts.

Upgrades to the jetty offtake structure and the decommissioning of a silo are also fnalized.

Pending installation of new cages will protect pumps from debris, particularly after heavy rainfall. The project is on track for completion in December, weather permitting.

Lisa Hingerty, Executive Director of Infrastructure Development at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), praised the NSW Government for providing the additional funding needed to complete the project. “Stage one is complete, and the new funding ensures the water treatment plant upgrade will deliver the highest quality water to residents,” she said.

“Given the impact of the last drought, this project has been a priority to ensure these communities are better prepared for future dry spells.”

Tenterfeld Shire Council Mayor Bronwyn Petrie expressed gratitude for the NSW Government’s continued support. “This project has faced numerous challenges, from COVID-19 delays to rising construction costs, but with this funding, we’re nearing completion, ensuring safe and secure water for our communities.”

Kyogle Council Mayor Kylie Webster highlighted the collaboration between state and local governments. “Water is the lifeblood of any community, and this project is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. The completion of this project will beneft around 400 residents in Muli Muli and Woodenbong, and we’re thankful for the NSW Government’s support in making it happen.”