Progress flowing for new Orroroo pipeline

SA Water will improve the quality of drinking water supply to Orroroo, with construction of a new 36 kilometre water pipeline to the township now underway.

The exciting $12 million project will connect Orroroo with the existing pipeline network at Peterborough, supplied with high-quality River Murray water, as well as an additional 18 kilometres of pipe upgrades between Yongala and Peterborough.

SA Water’s General Manager of Asset Operations and Delivery Mark Gobbie said the move to River Murray water supply is a boost for Orroroo's approximately 300 customers who are currently supplied with ground water sourced from the Walloway Basin.

“Although classified under the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines as potable, the current water supply does not meet certain taste qualities due to salinity, which is a naturally-occurring characteristic found in many of Australia’s inland groundwater systems,” Mark said.  

“Orroroo customers will soon get to enjoy some of the state’s highest quality water, with the Morgan Water Treatment Plant supplying this pipeline system voted SA’s best-tasting tap water in both 2016 and 2017.

“Investing in our pipeline network ensures we can continue to provide world class water services to our customers well into the future.”

The project involves installing the majority of pipe within road verges on a route following Petersburg Road, RM Williams Way, Bencic Road and Minburra Road, with some minor boring required under the existing railway line.

“We have worked together with the District Council of Orroroo Carrieton and wider community to identify the best solution to improve the town’s water quality, and we are committed to keeping the community well informed throughout the project,” Mark said.

“Residents may notice machinery and pipe temporarily stored along the construction route, as well as some increased noise, dust and traffic which will be safely managed through on-site traffic management, water carts and street sweepers.”

With a water delivery capacity of approximately 66,000 megalitres each year, the 358 kilometre Morgan to Whyalla pipeline is one of SA Water's longest pipeline networks.

Construction works will typically take place from Monday to Sunday from 7am to 7pm, with South Australian company Leed Engineering and Construction expected to complete the works by March 2019.

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