The Territory Labor Government has invested $6.4 million in a new water treatment plant to deliver high quality drinking water for the people of Borroloola.
The new water treatment plant officially opened today in Borroloola, one of the most remote towns in Northern Australia. Groundwater is the towns only water source, drawing from the Abner Sandstone Aquifer through five bores.
While the previous water supply met Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, the potable water had slightly corrosive tendencies, which can contribute to deterioration of old lead based pipes, pumps and tanks.
The new water treatment plant improves the overall mineral balance and enhances the disinfection of water before it goes to Borroloola homes and businesses. The system is designed to supply up to 3 mega litres of improved drinking water per day in peak demand.
The new water treatment plant underwent assembly and extensive testing in Darwin before installation in Borroloola by Power and Water. To overcome the geographical and logistical challenges, the upgraded water treatment plant was delivered through an innovative containerised solution.
This upgrade will secure Borroloolas water supply system for the next 30 years and also incorporates the ability to service Garawa town camps into the future.
As noted by Minister for Renewables & Essential Services, Dale Wakefield
The Territory Labor Government is creating brighter futures for Territorians in remote communities. This $6.4 million investment in a new water treatment plant will benefit the people of Borroloola and ensure that their quality of water is of a high standard.
Water is a precious resource and as part of this upgrade, we have been working with the Borroloola community to raise awareness around the health benefits of drinking water as well as the conservation of water.
As noted by Member for Barkly, Gerry McCarthy
This is a great innovation and will go towards improving the quality of the towns water supply as we move towards building new houses through our $1.1 billion housing program, and delivering high quality essential services to the Borroloola town living area.
