Following consultation with the community, investigations will be carried out on 3 potential future water supply options for Lorne, including the use of desalinated and purified recycled water.

While storages are currently secure, Barwon Water is preparing for a drier long-term future with less reliable rainfall and a higher local population.

A suite of water-saving initiatives, such as digital meters and educational campaigns, will assist in the short term, however additional supply may be required from the mid-2030s.

The potential major supply options that will be subject to further investigation and feasibility studies are:

• A new pipeline connection to the Geelong water supply system via Aireys Inlet, providing access to 2 megalitres of water per day
• A desalination plant, capable of delivering 2 megalitres daily
• An advanced water recycling plant capable of delivering purified recycled water, to help supplement the Allen Reservoir.

The options have been developed via Barwon Water’s long-term planning program, called Lorne: Water, Your Say.

A Community Working Group (CWG) has been supporting the program over the last two years, with its discussions helping to inform Barwon Water on local insights, priorities and values.

General Manager of Planning, Delivery and Environment Seamus Butcher said the options would create new water sources for Lorne and not place further pressure on the St George River.

“We would like to thank each CWG member who has had their say and contributed to Lorne’s water future,” Mr Butcher said.

“There is a shared understanding that we will need to progress planning work for a major upgrade to maintain a reliable and resilient water supply over the coming decades.”

Nominated by Barwon Water and tested with the CWG, the 3 options have also been discussed with the broader Lorne community through pop-up stalls, a webinar and an information session.

“The technical experts will now undertake detailed investigations on the potential options that will help us increase water security,” Mr Butcher said.

“This will also consider the likely economic, environmental and social impacts of each option.”

Engagement with the community is ongoing and there will be more opportunities for community members to contribute to the Lorne: Water, Your Say program.

More information can be found at https://www.yoursay.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/lorne-hub

Barwon Water is progressing a similar long-term program in Apollo Bay, to ensure a long-term reliable drinking supply for the town.

Action is being taken across the other water systems, with declining rainfall and population growth placing pressure on supplies across the region and beyond.