Water Minister Tim Holding said the new factory marked the successful completion of the $47 million Epsom–Spring Gully Water Recycling Project, which was built over the past two years to give Bendigo even greater confidence about its future water security.

“The Brumby Government is working to provide water security to households, industry, farmers and our river systems as we meet the challenges of 12 years of drought, climate change and a growing population,” Mr Holding said.

“The Recycled Water Factory will recycle all Bendigo’s wastewater and is a key part of diversifying Bendigo’s water sources and developing a secure supply.

“In the face of climate change, that’s an extraordinary achievement for one of Australia’s largest inland cities.

“This project will help underpin regional development and safeguard Bendigo’s prosperity and future.”

The Victorian Government provided $6.55 million towards the Epsom to Spring Gully Recycled Water Project and a further $6.3 million came from the Commonwealth Government’s Water Smart Australia Program.

Coliban Water has offered Class A recycled water to 350 rural customers along its Ascot, Axe Creek and Cockatoo Hill channels.

Recycled water will also be used to sustain Rosalind Park, Queen Elizabeth Oval, Bendigo Tennis Courts, Tom Flood Sports Centre, White Hills Botanical Gardens, Bendigo Golf Club, Bendigo Jockey Club and the Bendigo Harness Racing Club.

The Recycled Water Factory uses ultra-filtration and reverse osmosis to remove salt from Bendigo’s disinfected wastewater and safely dispose of the brine waste.

Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan MP said that the project was part of a range of water projects that are securing local water supplies.

“Recycling, along with water conservation, and the Goldfields Superpipe will ensure Bendigo homes and businesses have a sustainable future,” Ms Allan said.