$6-Million Project to Boost Mullumbimby’s Water Supply Resilience

ROBERT HEYWARD

The reliability and resilience of Mullumbimby’s water supply will soon be signifcantly improved with the announcement of the $6 million Mullumbimby Water Main Upgrade project. Delivered through a partnership between the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA), NSW Public Works, and Byron Shire Council, the project is part of the $145 million Northern Rivers Water and Wastewater Repair and Recovery Program.

Addressing Water Supply Challenges

Mullumbimby’s water supply, sourced from Laverty’s Gap weir on Wilsons Creek, faced severe disruptions during the 2019/20 drought and 2022 foods, necessitating an emergency connection to the regional water network to partially supply the town.

These events underscored the need for a robust and expanded emergency water system to ensure water availability for the entire town during future crises.

Scope of the Project

The Mullumbimby Water Main Upgrade will bolster water security by:

• Installing a new dedicated water main within the Tandy’s Lane road reserve between Pacifc Highway and Gulgan Road, and from Mullumbimby Road/ Manns Road to the Azalea Street Reservoirs.

• Building a new water booster pump station and bypass at the Azalea Street reservoir site.

• Conducting minor water main upgrades at the Left Bank Road/Tristran Road intersection.

Project Impact

Once completed in mid-2025, the project will:

• Ensure a reliable and safe water supply for Mullumbimby.

• Enhance the town’s resilience to adverse weather events such as foods and droughts.

• Future-proof Mullumbimby’s water infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population and changing climate.

Keane Civil & Construction has been engaged by Byron Shire Council to deliver this critical infrastructure upgrade.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:

“The 2022 foods revealed signifcant vulnerabilities in water infrastructure across the Northern Rivers. This project will strengthen Mullumbimby’s water system, ensuring resilience and reliability for years to come.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle

Saffn:

“Access to clean water is a basic human right. By investing in this project now, we’re ensuring Mullumbimby is better prepared for future foods and extreme weather events.”

Cameron Clark, Byron Shire Council Manager Utilities:

“Extending the emergency water connection to cover all of Mullumbimby is a vital step in securing a sustainable water supply. This upgrade supports the future growth of our vibrant community while addressing the challenges of a changing environment.”

Learn More For more information about the Mullumbimby Water Main Upgrade project, visit the Byron Shire Council website.