Upcoming sewer inspection program in Blackwater

A Central Highlands Regional Council contractor will be undertaking a sewer inspection program in Blackwater from early August.

The contractor will need to access external areas of private property to carry out the works. Council has issued letters to residents who are asked to provide safe and unobstructed access to sewer infrastructure on their property. This includes restraining pets.

If nobody is home and access is blocked, the contractor will leave a call back notice at the door. Council appreciates residents’ efforts to provide property access or arrange a convenient time to assist completing the program as scheduled by mid-October.

The works are conducted with a sewer smoking technique. It is used to identify where stormwater is entering the sewer network during wet weather, causing pressure on the waste-water treatment plant. A specialised, non-toxic smoke is pumped into the sewer network via maintenance holes.  Smoke then flows through the network and escape through vents. Smokes coming out of stormwater downpipes, roof guttering and from the ground all indicate potential stormwater infiltration points. It is possible that smoke may enter a house through internal plumbing if a toilet pan is empty or internal plumbing is defect. This is not harmful, and the smoke can be released through open doors and windows.

For more information on the works and frequently asked questions, visit centralhighlands.qld.gov.au or ask to speak with council’s Water Infrastructure Planning Engineer on 1300 242 686