Joint effort delivers millions in upgrades to critical infrastructure

ALMOST $5 million worth of flood-damaged water infrastructure has been rebuilt across the Northern Rivers under a state government recovery program.

The works are part of a $145 million NSW government Water and Wastewater Repair and Recovery Program aimed at restoring essential services damaged by the 2022 floods.

Two projects addressed major landslips that impacted critical water mains on Rous County Council’s network. At Dorroughby, a landslip next to the St Helena water main threatened the $29 million pipeline. A $1.7 million grant funded slope reconstruction and drainage works to stabilise and protect the pipeline.

The 2022 floods also caused a landslip in Wyrallah that damaged a key water main supplying the Richmond Valley. The $769,000 project, delivered through the 2022 Flood Recovery Program, replaced 150 metres of pipeline with more resilient materials to better withstand future extreme weather events.

“These works reflect our commitment to building a more resilient and reliable water network for the communities we serve,” Rous general manager Phillip Rudd said. “We thank the NSW Reconstruction Authority for recognising the importance of funding these projects, and NSW Public Works for their support in delivering them.”

Further infrastructure upgrades included the elevation of the Wilsons River Pump Station as part of a $415,000 project to improve flood resilience. A new electrical switchboard and associated equipment were installed to replace flood-damaged components. New access stairs will soon be added to complete the upgrade.

The program is fully funded by the NSW government, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority and delivered by NSW Public Works in partnership with local water authorities.

“We are grateful for the expertise and commitment shown by the teams involved,” Rous group manager for planning and delivery Andrew Logan said. “These projects not only restore vital infrastructure that was damaged during extreme weather events but also help to strengthen our region’s water network for the future.”

At Woodburn, a damaged reservoir was removed and replaced with a flood-resilient water treatment building. Key pipe sections, valves and valve pits were also replaced as part of the $1.5 million project, which forms part of Rous’ Future Water Project to redevelop the Woodburn groundwater supply scheme. The initiative aims to ensure safe, sustainable and affordable water during extended dry periods.