Water utility begins pipe clean

CLEANING of Bendigo’s water mains got underway earlier this week in what is to become an annual process.

The large-scale operation is set to run till the end of April and will also take place in Raywood, Axedale, Huntly, Marong, and Sebastian.

Coliban Water’s regulations manager David Sheehan said that “the rapid growth” of the region led to a review into the frequency of the works that used to take place “every two to three years.”

“What’s new this year is that this program will now become part of our annual works program,” he said.

“This increased frequency is essential to ensure ongoing good network health and help maintain chlorine residuals.”

Chlorine residual is the remnants of the chemical that remains in pipes after the water leaves the treatment plant.

“It will ensure our Bendigo water supply network continues to be safe for our communities,” he said.

Mr Sheehan said the operation shouldn’t impact residences or the quality of drinking water, although people may notice Coliban Water staff using fire hydrants to flush water through the systems.

“We are communication via various channels to create awareness prior to the works,” he said. “These works will not affect the pressure or flow of customers’ water supply.

“At all times the water will remain safe to drink and will meet all health-based aspects of the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.”

Mr Sheehan did say that some residents may notice a slight change in the taste of the water or smell a feint odour but that it is still safe to drink.

Placing the water in a jug and placing it in the fridge for 15 minutes should help remove the taste of any chlorine.

People who are sensitive to chlorine and notice the taste are encouraged to run the water through a purifier or filter before drinking.