Media Release
Community voices sought for next steps on Mt Beauty raw water offtake project
7 September 2023
North East Water is looking to re-establish a Community and Key Stakeholder Reference group for the next phase of the Mt Beauty raw water offtake project, which is critical to the town's water security.
With Embankment Drive (Site 2) recently endorsed by the Board as the preferred location for the new water infrastructure, the next phase of the project involves exploring alternatives to having a weir, which could offer more flexibility for the exact siting of the pump station.
The community reference group will provide feedback on potential weir alternatives, as well as opportunities to enhance the aesthetics and amenity of the water infrastructure.
North East Water is aiming to construct the infrastructure in 2024, subject to the required approvals being sought.
The Mt Beauty raw water offtake is needed to replace the current ageing infrastructure, which is located in a hazardous area at risk of bushfires and rockslides. It is also subject to the historic supply of limitations of hydro operations and poses major access difficulties for repairs and maintenance.
Both original reference group members and new members are invited to apply. The original group comprised 13 community members and included representatives from key agencies, including Alpine Shire, North East Catchment Management Authority and AGL.
North East Water Managing Director, Jo Murdoch, welcomed the ongoing involvement of the community in the evolution of the project.
"We're committed to getting the best outcome to ensure long-term water security for Mount Beauty," Ms Murdoch said.
"The re-establishment of the reference group is an important part of the process and will ensure the community and key agencies are involved every step of the way."
Ms Murdoch said the corporation is hoping to attract a diverse membership, who will bring a range of experiences.
"We welcome our original reference group members to continue on the journey, as well as invite new members to contribute," she said.
The group will potentially meet up to four times in the next six months, or as required as the project progresses
The re-establishment of the reference group will mark another milestone for the project. The recent site endorsement follows on from extensive engagement, as well as an independent review to provide North East Water with assurance that due diligence was being undertaken in the decision-making process, before committing to a location.
Applying to join the community reference group
Expressions of interest to join the reference group are now open. View our onnline form here.