Major pipeline flushed in time for summer

Gippsland Water has completed essential maintenance on one of its largest raw water pipelines, helping maintain water quality and a reliable supply ahead of increased summer demand.  

The Moondarra-Tyers River Conduit carries raw water from Moondarra Reservoir to Maryvale’s Pine Gully Reservoir, and on to Morwell’s Buckley’s Hill Reservoir, supplying major industry as well as water treatment plants that service local communities.  

At its largest, the pipeline is 1.5 metres in diameter, before narrowing to one metre.  

The seasonal flushing program removes sediment built up inside the pipeline, which could otherwise be disturbed when water flows and demands increase during the warmer months. 

Gippsland Water managing director Sarah Cumming said taking such a large pipeline offline required careful planning and coordination.  

“Flushing the conduit is an important part of maintaining water quality and keeping our network operating reliably,” Ms Cumming said.  

“It’s a complex process because we need to temporarily take parts of this major supply pipeline offline to complete the flushing safely and ensure our customers continue to receive the water they need. 

"The two-day program was completed as scheduled, with water samples taken before and after the flushing – confirming the process was a success. 

"Our healthy reservoir levels also meant we could complete the work without disrupting supply to customers.” 

The first stage of the flushing process took place between Moondarra Reservoir and Pine Gully Reservoir, while the second stage occurred between Pine Gully Reservoir and Buckley’s Hill Reservoir.  

For more information on water quality, visit www.gippswater.com.au/waterquality.