31 October 2022
Goulburn Valley Water has been nominated as a finalist in a state-wide water industry awards program, centred around its development of community projects.
The nomination is under the Australian Water Association’s Water Awards, under the Organisational Excellence category, which recognises initiatives driving prosperity, sustainability and transformative change, and external programs which create beneficial outcomes for communities.
GVW’s submission highlighted its work on two key community project partnerships and one significant infrastructure project
Managing Director Steve Capewell said GVW was thrilled to see projects recognised at a state level which were designed to have positive impacts on community liveability, wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
“Our collaboration with the Burnanga Indigenous Fishing Club to develop the Dunyak Moira community fishing lagoons in Merrigum is a fantastic opportunity for us to transform an unused asset into something that benefits our communities and encourages people to connect with nature and recreational activities,” Dr Capewell said.
“Our partnership with Strathbogie Shire Council and Euroa residents will see a unique, community led approach to drought-proofing the region in a sustainable way by looking at alternate water sources in a generally drying climate.
“Both of these projects are something we’re incredibly proud to be part of, and that we know will bring a lasting legacy for Euroa and Merrigum communities in years to come.”
Both projects have seen progress over the past couple of years, with Stage 1 of Greening Euroa complete and a plan underway to seek funding for Stage 2, which will make treated recycled water more widely available for recreational/sporting access for irrigation.
More than 100 fish relocated from channels and lakes are now living in the filled 50 megalitre and 10 megalitre filled lagoons at Dunyak Moira, with access works for a carpark, accessible bridge and more to be carried out in the near future, to join the existing fishing pontoons ready for a community opening in 2023.
The third project was the $10m replacement of the Shepparton Wastewater Management Facility’s High Rate Anerobic lagoon cover replacement, which helped to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and optimise the lagoon’s zero-oxygen treatment process.
The judging criteria involves looking for original or innovative projects with outstanding features that demonstrate economic, social, environmental or cultural benefits.
Winners for the awards will be announced this week on November 3 at the Victorian Gala Dinner and Awards Night.