Kaniva residents and visitors now have access to safe, treated drinking water straight from the tap.
The GWMWater project marks a significant milestone for the West Wimmera community. Kaniva was previously the largest town in Victoria without a drinking water supply.
The upgrade means residents no longer need to rely on rainwater tanks or packaged water for drinking and food preparation.
How has Kaniva’s water supply improved?
Kaniva’s drinking water is now supplied from the Dimboola Water Treatment Plant through a pipeline extension. The water is treated in line with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. As part of the project, GWMWater increased the capacity of the Dimboola Water Treatment Plant to meet Kaniva’s needs.
The new supply gives the town greater convenience and peace of mind. It also provides a treated drinking water source for visitors using local facilities and public spaces.
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Why does the project matter?
GWMWater Acting Managing Director Sally Marshall said the project supports the liveability of regional communities.
“A reliable drinking water supply is essential for preserving the liveability of communities in our region,” Marshall said. “The completion of this project is a significant step forward in health, liveability, and opportunity for this town.
“A drinking water supply was fundamental to supporting the well-being of this community, now and into the future.”
For Kaniva, the project changes an everyday part of life.
Access to treated drinking water means households, businesses, schools and visitors can use tap water for drinking and food preparation.
It also removes a long-standing gap in basic town water service.
How was the milestone marked?
The milestone was celebrated on Friday, 26 June, at the Kaniva Wetlands & Fauna Park.
Community members gathered with representatives from West Wimmera Shire Council, the Kaniva Lions Club and the Kaniva Progress Association.
The Kaniva Lions Club hosted a community barbecue to mark the occasion.
A new drinking water fountain was also unveiled at the park.
GWMWater said the fountain symbolises the town’s new access to safe, treated drinking water.
Marshall said the project reflected strong local support.
“This project has been a collaborative effort, and it was wonderful to celebrate its completion with the people of Kaniva and local organisations who play such an important role in the community,” Marshall said.
