Walhallow is transforming its water services thanks to a $4.4 million joint investment from the Federal and State Governments that will boost water reliability and create a more sustainable future for the northwest village.
The Walhallow Aboriginal Community Water Supply and Wastewater Reuse Project will deliver two significant pieces of infrastructure including:
- a containerised water treatment plant
- a wastewater recycling scheme that recycles 100 percent of the wastewater, which will be used to irrigate a three-hectare community-owned woodlot, powered by solar energy and planted with around 3,200 native trees.
“This project will give Walhallow residents confidence in their water supply and ensure essential services keep pace with community needs.” said Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt.
“Every community deserves access to safe and reliable drinking water.”
Currently, residents rely solely on bore water that has high levels of iron and manganese and has to be treated using a chlorination system to make it safe to drink. However, this water is often still left discoloured and with poor taste.
The new containerised plant will treat water to a much higher standard using advanced filtration to improve taste and clarity.
“Reliable water is the backbone of any thriving community, and these funds will overhaul the day-to-day services that people rely on to ensure Walhallow has the infrastructure it needs to evolve well into the future.” said NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson.
“The project is more than just new pipes and plants, it’s about people. We’re involving the community in choosing trees for the woodlot and creating local job opportunities, so the positive impact of this project will benefit residents for the long-term.”
“This project will strengthen Walhallow’s water system, safeguard public health, and deliver a stronger water supply and wastewater system.”
It will also reduce water loss by replacing the existing ageing cement mains that are prone to leaks. This upgrade also has the potential to reduce water bills for locals.
In addition, a new wastewater recycling scheme will offer an innovative sewage solution to better manage waste and reduce health and environmental risks from leakage or overflow. Works will also include repair and upgrades to the existing sewage storage ponds to prevent any leaks into the surrounding floodplain.
“For decades, we’ve relied on bore water that’s just not up to scratch. It’s unpleasant to drink, costly to manage, and over time has caused damage to water infrastructure and household appliances.” said Deputy Chairperson for the Walhallow Aboriginal Lands Council Ray Saunders.
“This project will change all that by delivering a more secure supply of clean, fresh drinking water, and upgrading infrastructure to reduce leaks , which could help slash costs , which is great news for our community.”
Design work is currently underway with construction due to start in September 2026 and is expected to be complete by 2028.
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