Diverse water sources supporting water security in our regions
New water recycling infrastructure in Horsham, Victoria, will support the region’s world class agricultural research industry and help keep public spaces green.
The now complete Horsham SmartWater and Integrated Water Management project has been delivered through the National Water Grid’s Victoria Connections Package. It is an excellent example of how we can use diverse sources of water to support long term water security in our regions.
The project included construction of:
- a reverse osmosis plant to clean the water for irrigation use
- pipelines to deliver water to public spaces in Horsham city.
Support for agricultural research
Researchers at the Horsham SmartFarm will now have greater access to recycled water for irrigation of crops for research purposes.
The SmartFarm focuses on improving productivity and biosecurity outcomes for the grains industry.
Access to more recycled water:
- supports Agriculture Victoria’s researchers’ capability to conduct field experiments
- will be used to irrigate more than 50 hectares of grain, oilseed and legume crops.
Greener spaces for the city of Horsham
New pipelines installed as part of the project will mean greener public spaces for residents and visitors of Horsham city. The pipeline will deliver recycled water to the city. It will reduce the need to use valuable drinking water to keep public spaces green.
Public spaces that will benefit from the newly available 77 megalitres of recycled water include:
- parks and ovals
- the cemetery
- the racecourse.
This infrastructure project was delivered as part of the National Water Grid’s Victoria Connections Package. This $46.3 million package is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments.
