Saving water on the Bellarine

TWO local organisations have partnered under a new water-saving plan on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Barwon Water and Barwon Coast have teamed up to utilise digital leak-detection technology and promote sensible water saving behaviours in the region.

The Coastal Partner Agreement has resulted in a range of projects coming to life including shorter shower signage in caravan park amities, quick rinse signage at beach showers and data loggers at several caravan parks.

The data loggers help detect leaks in real time and identified a potential 660 litre per hour leak at the Barwon Heads Caravan Park which was able to be identified quickly.

Barwon Water managing director Shaun Cumming said using smarter water management can make community water savings go even further into the future.

“Data logger technology is showing what’s possible when this technology is coupled with swift leak repair and water efficiency improvements.

“While technology and everyday water savings are only part of the solution to a secure water future for the region, they are an important part.”

Barwon Coast chief executive officer Gareth Smith said the data from the loggers had been valuable in driving down water loss.

“The continued collaboration with Barwon Water will enable us to install additional loggers and gain a comprehensive view of our usage patterns across all sites, helping us to optimise our water management practices.”

As part of the partnership, three new drinking fountains were also installed at Main Beach, Flinders Play Space and Ocean Grove Main Beach at the Dunes, featuring artwork by Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Billy-Jay O’Toole.

“Another great aspect of the partnership has been the installation of the drinking water fountains, which we know visitors to our foreshore areas love using,” Mr Smith said.

As part of the partnership Barwon Water and Barwon Coast will undertake water audits to help identify further opportunities in saving water.

For more information and water saving tips head to barwonwater.vic.gov.au