Water is flowing down the Coliban Main Channel as Coliban Water’s rural season beginning this week.
The rural system supplies untreated rural water and some recycled water to 1,362 rural license holders through 500 kilometres of channels and pipelines and this year the organisation is pleased to offer 100 per cent allocation for the 11th year in a row.
Coliban Water Executive General Manager Climate and Population Adaptation Steve Healy said the solid winter and spring rain meant this year’s rural season had begun later than usual.
“Providing our customers with their full allocation gives them certainty during the warmer months and allows them to look forward with security,” he said.
“Many of our large parks, sporting grounds and gardens are supplied by the Coliban Main channel so the 100 per cent allocations give our large customers confidence they can continue their watering programs,” he said.
Rural water delivery is based on demand, with water delivered only when demand is strong enough on a particular system to ensure efficiency is maximised.
“A lot of the rural channels are open and concrete-lined, or even just earth, so reducing losses is an important focus as we head into a drier future. The more water we have flowing in a system, the better it is for efficiency.
“Customers can order water between 7am and 2.30pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays and the Christmas/New Year break). We require 48 hours’ notice or two working days.
“Remember you need to be either a registered licence holder or a nominated rural ordering authorised person for the account,” he said.
Rural customers who wish to order water need their individual BEE number ready when they call on 1300 761 738.
Victoria has harsh penalties for compliance for the rural and urban system for illegal take and use of water.
The maximum fines are $990,000 for companies and $198,000 for individuals.
“Complying with your water licence is your responsibility. If you’re unsure of your obligations, or want to know more, contact us and we’ll help,” Mr Healy said.
For further information, please call our Customer Support Team on 1300 363 200 or go to https://coliban.com.au/rural