Next stage in Forrest wastewater project

Published on 17 December 2018

Next stage in Forrest wastewater project

Colac Otway Shire Council has thrown its support behind the preparation of a business case to improve wastewater management at Forrest.

Barwon Water and Council have partnered with the Forrest community to investigate wastewater options in the township, with Council supporting the project group’s next step.

Shire Mayor Jason Schram said the wastewater project group had looked at different solutions and a business case would consider the preferred option, with a report to come back to Council before it endorsed the project.

“The project is funded and led by Barwon Water, with Council’s support, and responds to the community’s concern about public health and other issues with no reticulated sewerage system in the town,” Cr Schram said

“The Forrest community has been really proactive and formed a Forrest Wastewater Group to raise the issues with the State Government,”

“A Council audit showed that of 113 existing onsite wastewater systems inspected at Forrest, 39 were a high risk because sewerage and other wastewater were discharging offsite.

“The increasing tourism and growing businesses in Forrest is placing extra pressure on the existing system, particularly at peak visitor times.

“About 30 community members were involved in a survey and had their say on their preferred solution which will be used in preparation of the business case,” he said.

“But some residents have said they can’t afford to contribute to a new wastewater system and that will also be considered during the decision-making process.”