Discussions on water security continuing

MEDIA RELEASE 23 October 2019

Council is continuing work with the NSW Government to discuss a range of strategies to secure water for the Bathurst region.

Mayor of Bathurst Bobby Bourke and senior Council staff met with Minister for Water Melinda Pavey, local MP Paul Toole and other representatives from the NSW Government including Water Coordinator James McTavish and Deputy Secretary for Water Jim Bentley in Sydney today. The delegation also met with Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro.

This was the second meeting with NSW Government representatives this month to progress discussions on projects that will secure the region’s water supply such as the Winburndale Pipeline and stormwater harvesting. Council is seeking a further $20 million for these projects, which are almost ready to commence.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said the meeting was extremely positive and Council’s proposals were well received.

“These discussions bring us another step closer to securing the region’s water and I am certain that our strategies and proposals will be given suitable consideration,” he said.

“I am looking forward to working with the NSW Government and learning the outcome of our request for assistance soon”.

Minister for Water Melinda Pavey congratulated Council for the leadership on water saving measures and was pleased with the progress being made on Bathurst’s long term water security.

“Bathurst Regional Council understands we are facing the worst drought on record and must work together to find solutions to extend supply and guarantee jobs. The NSW Government and water agencies, together with Bathurst Regional Council, are working collaboratively to address and combat their regional water concerns,” she said.

The NSW Government has previously pledged $2 million for Council to investigate medium to long term solutions and strategies to secure the region’s water supply such as stormwater harvesting and the Winburndale pipeline were discussed at length in today’s meeting.

Council has also received $2.25 million from the Safe and Secure Water Program for the strengthening of Winburndale Dam wall, with construction work already commenced.

For more news visit yoursay.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/newscentre

ENDS

Media contact: Corinne Boer Media and Communications Officer P: 02 6333 6179 M: 0448 685 340 E: [email protected]