The Allan Labor Government is investing in the state’s water infrastructure to provide long-terms safe and reliable water supply for 365,000 customers to the east of Melbourne.

Member for the North-Eastern Metropolitan Region Sonja Terpstra joined 20 toddlers at a local early learning centre to celebrate laying the final pipe of the Kilsyth to Croydon Water Main Renewal project by turning on the taps.

The toddlers present will reach 100 years of age before a further replacement of the mains will be needed.

The project to replace the underground mains, which connect the Olinda and Mitcham reservoirs, had some twists and turns. Engineers have adjusted the alignment of the mains to save more than 200 trees which would have otherwise required removal.

Melbourne Water have invested $65 million in the project which will reduce disruption in the system from water leaks and increase capacity throughout the network.

Melbourne Water and industry partners began the works in mid-2023 on the 4.5km section of water mains between Dunrossil Drive in Kilsyth and Yarraduct Place in Croydon as part of a larger project to update the water mains in the eastern suburbs. 

The original water mains were built in 1936 with pipes of mild steel and lead joints and lined with concrete in the 1970s to guard against internal corrosion. The new pipes are further protected with a negative electrical charge to guard against stray electrical currents from trains and prevent external damage.

Quote attributable to Member for the North-Eastern Metropolitan Sonja Terpstra

“This upgrade is a great outcome for our community which ensures the longevity and safety of our water supply, it’s reassuring to know the children here today will benefit from this for many years to come.”

Quote attributable to Melbourne Water Head of Service Enablement One Water, Sean Hanrahan

“Updating our infrastructure is critical for to maintaining the reliable service Melbournians have had for generations. Thank you to the community and to our industry partners for their invaluable support as we completed this important project.”