Yarra Valley Water is investing in innovative recycled water infrastructure to ensure local parks and community spaces stay green while saving our precious drinking water.
The water utility announced the completion of a new recycled water main in Croydon, marking a significant milestone as one of Australia’s first water offset pilots.
The 300-metre water main will benefit the Maroondah community by delivering high-quality water to green spaces, including the Barngeong Reserve sporting oval. It’s expected to save the council approximately 3 million litres of drinking water annually.
Yarra Valley Water Managing Director Pat McCafferty said the pilot is part of a longer-term road map to conserve water.
“We need to adapt to our changing climate and increased demand for water – so we can continue to support local communities and ensure we have water for environmental, cultural and recreational use.”
Yarra Valley Water built this new infrastructure with the Level Crossing Removal Project to connect the reserve to the network.
Water is vital in construction, as it is used for dust suppression and landscaping irrigation. The pilot provides a way for construction projects to offset drinking water used during works.
This initiative will offset 15.5 million litres of drinking water used during the construction of four level crossing removal projects over five years—equivalent to more than six Olympic-sized swimming pools.
The project aligns with the Victorian Government’s Suburban Parks Program to create and improve open spaces across the city.
Expanding recycled water infrastructure and diversifying water sources is crucial for securing its water supplies for the future.
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