Coliban Water’s 2021 Annual Report has been tabled in Parliament today, outlining another big year in delivering water services while operating in an environment dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Managing Director Damian Wells said he was proud of the support the organisation provided not only to customers, but staff during this challenging time.
“In the middle of a 1 in 100-year global pandemic and the challenges this presented, we still delivered $31.3 million of capital investment into assets to service our communities.
“We continued to support our customers experiencing vulnerability by providing financial assistance through payment plans, rebates and grants. We also invited them to participate in our financial assistance program – which includes access to financial counselling services in our region.
“The health, safety and wellbeing of our team and contractors was a priority. They all continued to work flexibly while ensuring our customers experienced exceptional service. I want to acknowledge and thank them for their perseverance and brilliant work during this challenging time,” Mr Wells said.
In demonstrating the organisations commitment to being environmental stewards, the new Environment and Sustainability Policy was launched.
“We are being aspirational with our new policy and want to achieve more than just regulatory compliance.
“We have recognised that we have some asset renewal and expansion that is overdue. An example worth noting is the investment made in upgrades and recycled water opportunities at the Kyneton Water Reclamation Plant,” Mr Wells said.
Climate adaptation, capital investment in asset renewals and support for growth in the region will be a continued focus for the coming year.
“The delivery of our capital program demonstrates our commitment to our core business – providing water and sewer services to our region.
“These services are essential in supporting the environmental, health and economic development of our communities.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, our region has continued to grow. We know that the Calder corridor and Murray River towns are experiencing growth, and Bendigo has seen a real population boom, especially in the areas of Marong, Maiden Gully, Huntly and Strathfieldsaye.
“This growth is putting pressure on our aging assets, and we need to continue this capital investment in renewing our assets to keep pace with this growth, and secure the water future for our region,” said Mr Wells.
Planning is currently underway for the development of the organisations next Pricing Submission
2023-2028, and feedback from customers and stakeholders are central to this submission.
“We genuinely encourage customers to get involved and share their thoughts through the range of opportunities that are available now, and over the coming months, as we finalise our submission for the Essential Services Commission in June next year,” Mr Wells said.
The 2021 Annual Report is now available on our website.