Better drinking water for Nimbin

THE Nimbin community is closer to reliable, safe drinking water thanks to additional funding to improve water infrastructure and quality,

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said water security was at front of mind for the Northern Rivers region.

“It’s great to see the NSW Government looking to the future to ensure places like Nimbin and Casino get the water services they deserve,” Ms Saffin said.

“These funds will get the ball rolling on boosting drinking water quality in both towns, which is excellent news for locals and the many visitors who flock to this region every year.

“Getting the planning and design processes right is extremely important because these are the essential stepping stones that can help us make sure we’re putting the right infrastructure in place for decades to come.”

Concept designs are underway for a new filtration and treatment system to supply better water for Nimbin’s 2422 residents.

The temporary plant installed during the 2022 floods as part of the recovery response requires a permanent solution.

Lismore mayor Cr Steve Krieg said a new filtration system for Nimbin with 21st-century technology would treat water to a higher standard and help end boil water alerts.

“We know raw water supply in Nimbin is often affected by weather conditions and organic matter in Mulgum Creek,” Cr Krieg said.

“We are keen to move this project into the next gear and get it to a tender-ready stage to improve outcomes for the community.”

Along with water infrastructure improvements in Casino, the $357,000 secured represents $123,000 from the NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Water Program, boosting the $165,000 from Lismore City Council and $68,500 from Richmond Valley Council.

Planning and design work is expected to be completed by the end of the year.