A historical first for Barellan wastewater

A monumental $8.8 million overhaul of Barellan Wastewater Services is complete with crews finishing work on a new sophisticated sewer system which includes the construction of the town’s first ever sewage treatment plant, significantly improving liveability for locals.

Delivered thanks to a $4.87 million investment from the NSW Government Restart Program and Safe and Secure Water Program and $3.93 million from Narrandera Shire Council, the milestone project has seen more than 175 households gain access to a central sewerage network for the first time in Barellan’s history.

Until now, residents relied on ageing, and often smelly, septic tanks which were found to have system failures putting public health and the environment at risk due to the potential of sewage leaking into groundwater and waterways causing contamination.

This was highlighted during a flood event in 2012 when locals were forced to evacuate because of septic pollution.

With the new network in place, there’s better protection for the community and the environment, as well as unlocking opportunities for future housing and business development.

The project includes a wastewater treatment plant with new pipelines, household connections, pump stations and other equipment to meet current and future demands.

NSW DCCEEW Director of Infrastructure Development Lisa Hingerty said: 

“This is a groundbreaking development for Barellan locals who have had to put up with outdated septic tanks for too long that are not only impractical but also need to be maintained at great expense to residents.

“Wastewater services often go unnoticed but they’re essential for day-to-day living, which is why delivering a modern, centralised sewerage system will make a huge difference.

“It has been 20 years in the making, which is why I’m absolutely thrilled we’ve been able to give Barellan the vital infrastructure it needs to thrive today and into the future.”

Narrandera Shire Council Mayor, Neville Kschenka said: 

“This is new chapter for sewage services in Barellan with the completion of the town’s first sewage treatment plant at Kolkilbertoo Road that will serve our community for many years to come.

“Locals know first-hand the impact of risks with septic tanks, but we have moved on from those days with new world class infrastructure that will protect public health and the environment, which is great news for residents, businesses and the Barellen Central School.

“We're so pleased to have had the NSW Government’s support to make this historical project a reality that gives the town the wastewater services they deserve.”