Upgraded wastewater system brings sustainable solution to Yalata

In a solution driven by community feedback which provides better sustainability, public health and safety outcomes, SA Water has completed a $2.4 million upgrade of the wastewater network in the Yalata Aboriginal Community on South Australia’s far west coast.

The new pressurised wastewater soakage disposal system pumps effluent from septic tanks into an underground pressurised soakage trench, replacing the previously used wastewater lagoon.

While both methods serve the same purpose, local residents requested the lagoon be removed as children were on occasion, using it for swimming, presenting health and safety risks.

SA Water’s Senior Manager of Production and Treatment Paul Bendotti said rather than enlarging the lagoon to accommodate the growing volume of wastewater coming into the local treatment plant, it was removed entirely and replaced with the in-ground disposal system.

“The upgraded system uses pumps to pressurise the wastewater, distributing it evenly through a network of pipes into soakage trenches,” Paul said.

“Once the wastewater is effectively dispersed into the surrounding soil, natural biological processes will break down any organic contaminants, meaning there is no adverse impacts on the environment.

“Wastewater networks play an essential role in maintaining public health and sanitation by containing and treating sewage. This method offers a safer and more environmentally sound solution through the elimination of open water hazards, minimising odours and reducing the risk of overflows and leaks.

“It also provided us with an opportunity to work closely with the local community to develop a solution that meets their needs.”

In addition to the wastewater system upgrade, SA Water is also investigating opportunities to supplement and increase the drinking water supply in Yalata, which is sourced from underground bores.

“To ensure a continued supply of safe, clean drinking water to local homes and businesses, we are planning to drill a new bore in close proximity to the existing bores, with this work planned for mid-2025,” Paul said.

“The new bore will help bolster the capacity of the local water supply network, providing added resilience during periods of high demand.

“Both of these projects are part of our ongoing commitment to supporting regional and remote communities with water and wastewater solutions that support their long-term needs.”

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