The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($750,000) and North East Water ($750,000). Australian Government funding is provided through the National Water Grid Fund.
If constructed, the recharge system will utilise these groundwater filters at Kerr St, Wangaratta. Photo Source: North East Water.
Wangaratta’s water supply is unreliable and regularly subject to drought, flood, and the effects of bushfires. There are currently around 30,000 residents who rely on the water supply network in the town and nearby areas. This lack of water security can result in limited population growth, reduced liveability and an increased threat of water restrictions.
The preliminary business case will investigate the feasibility and benefits of constructing a borefield and a Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) system in the region. These options could supplement the town’s surface water supply, increase water security and improve the town’s climate-resilience.
To assess these options, the project will:
- explore the viability of the identified target zones for borefield development
- deliver a preliminary assessment of water quantity and quality through exploration drilling
- investigate the potential environmental and social benefits of a MAR system.