Public gets last look at aqueduct

THE public will have a final opportunity to get up close to the historic Ovoid Sewer Aqueduct before demolition works begin.

The guided tour forms part of the conditions attached to Heritage Victoria’s demolition permit, granted in April after years of investigations found the deteriorating structure could no longer be safely maintained or safely propped in place.

The permit allows Barwon Water to remove the aqueduct’s 14 towers and truss spans, while requiring a range of measures to preserve its heritage, including commemorative public events, detailed digital documentation and a long-term interpretation of the site.

Community members who book a place on the 1 August tour of the aqueduct will be transported by bus from the Barwon Asset Solutions depot in Breakwater and guided through a series of viewing and information points overlooking the aqueduct.

Barwon Water staff and project specialists will explain the aqueduct’s history and engineering significance, why the deteriorating structure can no longer be safely maintained, the planned demolition works and the future of the site, including the Porronggitj Karrong project.

Managing director Shaun Cumming said the event would give the community an opportunity to acknowledge the aqueduct’s contribution to the region while learning about its future.

“We’re designing this event to give community members a safe opportunity to view the aqueduct and learn more about its important contribution to the region’s water history,” he said.

“We’re pleased to also share detail on what the safe and reopened site will look like, and how it will cater to a range of cultural and recreational activity.”

The aqueduct carried Geelong’s sewer across the Barwon River until it was decommissioned in 1992 and replaced by a pipeline beneath the river.

The surrounding area has remained closed to the public since 1995 because of safety concerns.

Barwon Water is also inviting community members to share memories and photographs of the aqueduct to help inform its long-term heritage interpretation strategy.

A community information area featuring historical material and project information will also be available at the Barwon Asset Solutions depot for those unable to join a tour.

To book a place, head to yoursay.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/aqueduct.