Standpipes Usage Changes

From 1 July 2019, the two fixed water standpipes located in Boyanup and Capel will no longer be available for community and commercial use, due to changes to Water Corporation charges.

The standpipes will be available for fire fighting purposes during emergency fire events and declared times of drought by the State Government when farmers would be able to access the water at a concessional rate. The Shire will also be able to maintain the emergency services function without significant increases in water costs.

These changes came after the Water Corporation advised rural local governments that as of 1 July 2019 new water charges would apply to fixed standpipes based on the category of the standpipe and requested that all LGAs categorise their standpipes.

Due to the significant increase in the commercial service water charges being introduced by the Water Corporation, the Shire of Capel has chosen to classify its two existing standpipes as ‘Fire Fighting’ standpipes and padlock them using the Shire’s standard fire control padlocks as of 1 July 2019.

Unfortunately, this decision restricts access to the community and commercial operators who may have previously accessed the service.

Further advertising will take place leading up to 1 July 2019 so the community is well aware of the changes.

The current arrangements for standpipe use will remain in place until that time.

Further information from the Water Corporation on Fixed Standpipes can be accessed via the link.