Springs overhaul coming but start date unknown

A NEW bore and pump for the Blackwood Mineral Springs is high on the list of priorities for the facility’s committee of management, but a date for the work to take place remains uncertain.

The Victorian Mineral Springs Master Plan, released in July, lists a new bore and pump for the soda spring specifically as a high priority, but Blackwood Crown Reserves Committee of Management secretary Sarah Kukiel said completion by 2027 was the most accurate available estimation of a timeline.

“Our current bore is closed more than open due to contamination and [it] floods often,” Ms Kukiel said.

“Conversations have just started due to the master plan only just being released.”

But Ms Kukiel said the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and the Moorabool Shire Council were both represented at the committee’s recent annual meeting.

Challenges: The Blackwood Mineral Springs Reserve is one of seven managed by the volunteer committee. Photos: DARREN McLEAN

Ms Kukiel said the Blackwood spring is the last one on the master plan list.

“All other mineral springs in our area have either upgraded their bore or have a functional one already operating,” she said.

“The Blackwood Mineral Springs are the only springs managed by a volunteer committee in Victoria, which presents its own challenges.”

The committee looks after seven reserves in Blackwood, including the mineral springs.

“Our main funding comes from revenue created from the caravan park and any grants or funding we can obtain through government channels,” Ms Kukiel said.

The soda spring is often closed due to contamination, and floods regularly.

She said the committee still had to consult with the traditional owners and carry out a feasibility study before a new bore and pump can be installed.

The committee estimates that a new bore and pump could cost anywhere from $100,000 to $120,000, and the committee considers it a priority because of Blackwood’s growth.

“The area has had a lot of new families moving into the area,” Ms Kukiel said.

“The post office has recently undergone renovations and is now also a cafe.

“The ‘General’ (retail area) has reopened also to the public with drinks and food and sometimes entertainment – no longer just a coffee roaster.”

Ms Kukiel said the Great Dividing Trail Network also recently launched its new guide book with maps of local walking trails.

“The pub, with the renovations and new menu with extended opening hours, has definitely created a more busy main street, especially on weekends, public and school holidays,” she said.

A concrete start date for installation of a new bore and pump remains unknown.

“Also the pub was shown on The Block, which has attributed another burst in visitors to the area.

“If we could improve the mineral springs it would add to the list of things offered here in our small forest town, as the springs have remained an important part of Blackwood’s heritage – reflecting the town’s transition from gold mining to recreation and tourism over the last 150-plus years.”

Ms Kukiel said the committee would be happy to hear from anyone interested in joining the group.

A DEECA spokesperson said the master plan identifies “a range of site-specific actions to inform future investment decisions and support the achievement of these outcomes”.

“DEECA is working closely with the Blackwood Reserves Committee of Management and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation to progress actions relevant to the springs at Blackwood, including confirming the scope of proposed works, associated costs and timing,” the spokesperson said.