800 Kilometres of Mains Undergoing Cleaning

Greater Western Water (GWW) has initiated its annual water main cleaning programme throughout Melbourne’s western suburbs. This project is crucial for maintaining the region’s drinking water quality and reliability.

Works began in May and target approximately 800 kilometres of water mains across the Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Melton City, and Wyndham City council areas. Jodie Hallam, GWW Manager for Service Delivery, stated, “This year, we will be cleaning approximately 800 kilometres of water mains across Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Melton City, and Wyndham City council areas, with works progressing steadily since May.”

Proactive Maintenance Strategy

GWW’s cleaning initiative is part of a proactive strategy to prevent water supply problems before they occur. The programme addresses sediment build-up in pipes, which can impact water quality and pipe condition.

According to Hallam, “Not all our work begins with a fault. Much of what our crews undertake focuses on maintaining and improving the network to reduce the risk of bursts, discolouration, and unplanned interruptions.”

The water mains are cleaned using air scouring, which combines high-pressure water and compressed air. This method effectively removes built-up sediment and scale from inside pipes, ensuring water quality is maintained.

Melbourne’s water supply naturally contains sediments that accumulate in pipes over time. Removing this build-up helps maintain water quality, protect pipe condition, and ensure safe, high-quality drinking water for customers.

While planned works might be inconvenient, they play a crucial role in keeping services reliable. By inspecting, maintaining, and cleaning the network annually, GWW helps reduce unexpected leaks and faults, prevent water quality issues, and minimise emergency repairs.

Residents seeking further information on the programme can visit the Greater Western Water Cleaning Water Mains webpage.