Our rural pipelines supply water to 51 wetlands in our region. The water is supplied under a 1,000 ML environmental entitlement held by the Victorian Environmental Water Holder. The Wimmera-Mallee can be dry at times and the wetlands are an important open water source for birds and wildlife to thrive in.
For a map and more information about the wetlands, visit the Victorian Environmental Water Holder website.
Further information...
51 environmental wetlands were connected to the Wimmera Mallee Pipeline between 2012 and 2014.
In 2009 a Memorandum of Understanding called Connecting the Catchments was developed and signed by nine South Australian and Victorian organisations to proactively manage the threats that affect surface water catchment areas.
Pipeline supplied recreation lakes and weir pools Our rural piplines also supply water to 11 recreation lakes and weir pools in our region. |
Published by: GWMWater
Date: March 2015
We have committed to sustainability as a pillar of business excellence. Our Sustainability Strategy provides a planning framework and outlines the sustainability objectives we will achieve. For us, sustainability means being able to continuously provide water and wastewater services which supports customers, staff and the region and balance social, environmental and economic outcomes.
Sustainability Strategy (2.7MB)
Supporting information...
Our Sustainability Policy is implemented through our Sustainability Strategy that enables compliance, the proactive management of risks and innovative solutions. |
Biosolids are a product of treated sludge from a wastewater treatment plant and can be used as a soil conditioner or fertiliser for agricultural and horticultural use.
Our biosolids are available to GWMWater customers to 'take and use' for free.
What to do
If you're interested in 'taking and using' our biosolids, get in touch with us.
Current Stockpiles
We stockpile biosolids for at least three years to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) safety standards.
Stockpiles are currently available at the following locations:
Town |
Stockpiled since |
| Horsham | 2009 |
| Sea Lake | 2009 |
| Kaniva | 2013 |
| Stawell | 2013 |
A biosolids stockpile
Further information...
Published by: Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria Date: April 2004
Australian and New Zealand Biosolids Partnership (ANZBP) (external website) The ANZBP website provides information about biosolids including, how they are produced, what is in them, how they can be used, their benefits and the potential risks of using them. |
At GWMWater, we're committed to managing our natural resources responsibly and delivering services in ways that minimise the impact on the environment.
To support our commitment, we've developed an AS ISO 14001:2004 accredited Environmental Management System (EMS), which we apply to all aspects of our work.
Our EMS contains policies and guidelines for...
Waste managementWe're committed to reducing the waste we generate and send to landfill. Our waste management is guided by the principles set out in the Environment Protection Authority’s Waste Management Hierarchy to avoid and reduce, reuse, recycle and then dispose of the remainder in a responsible way.
Fire protectionOur Fire Protection Plan is based on hazard identification and hazard reduction.
Indigenous engagementWe recognise the spiritual relationship between Indigenous peoples and the land and water and are committed to protecting Indigenous cultural heritage.
Weeds and pest managementWe understand the damage that weeds and pests can have on the environment and have developed policies to manage weed and pest issues responsibly. |
Using the EMS, we identify risks and rank them according to their impact on the environment. From here, we set targets, undertake monitoring, raise awareness and provide training for our staff and contractors. We also use our EMS to control incidents and our overall impact on the environment.
For more information about our EMS, contact us to speak to our Environmental Officer.
If you're planning to plant trees or shrubs, it's important to avoid planting them too close to a rural pipeline in case we need to do work on a pipe.
To find out where our pipelines are located, use our interactive map of GWMWater assets or get in touch with us.
Tips for planting near a pipeline
To help us to access and maintain the water network:
- Large trees should be planted at least 5 metres from a pipeline.
- Shrubs should be planted at least 2 metres from a pipeline.
- Grasses, legumes and herbs can be planted directly on the pipeline with the understanding that they may need to be removed if work is required on a pipe.
For more information about planting trees or shrubs near a rural pipeline, please call us on 1300 659 961 during business hours.
Further information...
Designing your on-farm piped system If you're planning to install your on-farm piped system, we have tools and advice available to help you come up with the best design for your property.
A wildlife pond is an inground water source designed to provide habitat for wildlife. A 17 kL water rebate is available to rural landholders who construct and register their wildlife pond.
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