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<\/p>\nIT has been more than 37 years since Blackwood’s water supply began to flow, with Central Highlands Water now supplying more than 350 connections.<\/p>\n
A public meeting was called in 1978 to discuss a potential water supply, and a committee was appointed to look into the proposal’s feasibility.<\/p>\n
The Blackwood water supply was eventually opened by the Shire of Ballan in August 1987.<\/p>\n
The system cost more than $1 million and a full treatment plant was commissioned in 2005.<\/p>\n
“Our Blackwood water supply has a fascinating history since it was first put forward by the local community in 1978,” Central Highlands Water managing director Jeff Haydon said.<\/p>\n
“Today, having over 350 connections to the Blackwood and Barrys Reef area, it remains a highly valued asset, providing high-quality drinking water to the community.”<\/p>\n
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Water for the supply is sourced from local creeks using diversion weirs.<\/p>\n
It is stored and pumped into the Blackwood Treatment Plant, where it is clarified.<\/p>\n
Blackwood is regarded as one of the most water-efficient communities serviced by Central Highlands Water, with residential usage sitting at an average of 98 litres per person per day.<\/p>\n
“Blackwood continues to be one of the most water-efficient communities, with residents finding creative solutions to conserve water all year round,” Mr Haydon said.<\/p>\n
Following a significant storm in 2021, Central Highlands Water spent $160,000 to install a generator to ensure continued water supply in the event of future power outages.<\/p>\n
The new generator can supply 48 hours of backup power before it has to be refuelled.<\/p>\n
Regular water mains maintenance is also carried out to ensure a consistent high standard of drinking water.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
IT has been more than 37 years since Blackwood’s water supply began to flow, with Central Highlands Water now supplying more than 350 connections. A public meeting was called in 1978 to discuss a potential water supply, and a committee was appointed to look into the proposal’s feasibility. The Blackwood water supply was eventually opened […]<\/p>\n