$15m approved to fix Bombala and Delegate water supplies

Council has confirmed state government funding approval of $15million for the Bombala and Delegate water treatment projects.

In a letter from NSW Minister for Regional Water and Primary Industries Niall Blair, the situation was recognised as “a high priority for the community”.

A council spokesperson said arrangement have already been made for a reputable consulting agency to identify the preferred option for the projects in consultation with Mr Blair’s departments.

Convener of a recent public meeting on Bombala’s dirty water issues Alison Gimbert said on Friday, “whoever said that public meetings and protests don't work”.

Ms Gimbert has been at the forefront of campaigning for clean water for Delegate and Bombala and in March last year organised a public meeting.

Hundreds of people turned up to have their say about the water and it was at that meeting that Member for Monaro John BariIaro promised $15m towards fixing the water and sewage issues.

The grant, which had yet to be approved, was finally given the go ahead on Friday.

”Congratulations to our two towns, we stood up to be counted,” Ms Gimbert said.

A council spokesperson reiterated that water from the Bombala system complies with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and any discoloured water was a result of the ageing pipes network and accumulated residue.

They said, as part of the project, pipes would also be replaced in sectors where the network is beyond repair.

“Council staff have been and will act immediately if a complaint is received through 1300 345 345 or email,  council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au.

“Residents are encouraged to report any water issues immediately. Staff will rectify the issue as soon as possible, either by flushing the lines or replacing the network on a priority basis, until the network is renewed as part of the $15million project.”