Kyneton’s public spaces and gardens can now be sustainably irrigated using recycled water sourced from the expanded Kyneton Recycled Water Scheme.

Officially opening the scheme today, Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, Senator Don Farrell, said it will provide recycled water for irrigation of the historic Kyneton Botanic Gardens, Barkly Square, sporting ovals and other public open spaces.

“The Australian Government has contributed more than $700,000 to this $1.4m project,” Senator Farrell said.

“Ensuring that public spaces are kept in good condition in dry times means that the health and social benefits of outdoor recreation are not lost to communities when there’s little water around.

“This project will provide recycled water to help maintain the quality of important community assets when water is scarce.”

Funded by the Australian Government, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, the Victorian Regional Infrastructure Development Fund and Coliban Water, the expanded scheme also includes the installation of a backwash water treatment system to filter and recycle swimming pool backwash for use in the lawn irrigation system at Woodend, and an upgraded irrigation system at Hanging Rock Recreation Reserve.

“The launch of operations at this treated effluent reuse scheme is a significant achievement for both the Council and the Government,” Senator Farrell said.

“It will contribute to the quality of the local environment and quality of life for the community.”

The $200 million Strengthening Basin Communities program is funded through the Australian Government’s Water for the Future initiative, to develop community-wide plans for a future with less water and investment in water saving initiatives that meets the needs of communities now and into the future.