The Lorne: Water, Your Say Community Working Group is progressing its discussion and assessment of water augmentation options for the town.

The group’s local knowledge is helping to inform a sustainable and resilient water future for Lorne, with focused discussions on potential new water sources, savings and smarter water use.

At a group meeting in May, Barwon Water presented a range of potential options and how they performed against assessment criteria, considering water supply and climate, along with environmental, social and economic values.

The working group discussed the options and provided input into which options Barwon Water should take forward for further consideration for Lorne.

While there were diverse views among members, the working group determined the options they would like Barwon Water to evaluate in more detail.

These included a potential mix of initiatives that aim to save more water around homes, use smarter water management tools and technologies, and find more water sources.

Barwon Water General Manager of Planning, Delivery and Environment Seamus Butcher said the group had contributed a lot of time and effort to inform the engagement program.

“The community working group members are passionate about their local area and the water needs for Lorne’s future,” Mr Butcher said.

“Our meetings have involved lively discussions and extensive work to find potential solutions for future water augmentation.

“There is a range of options for us to evaluate, that could potentially enable us to build a portfolio of initiatives to help meet Lorne’s future water needs.”

Barwon Water will now investigate the shortlist of options, with findings to be presented to the community working group for further discussion in July.

Feedback will also be sought from the broader community. We encourage all Lorne community members to monitor our dedicated project page at https://www.yoursay.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/lorne-hub