Strengthening water security for Leongatha and Koonwarra

South Gippsland Water (SGW) is taking proactive steps to strengthen the reliability of the Leongatha and Koonwarra water supply following below-average rainfall over the past 12 to 24 months.

Ensuring water security for our community is a priority, and we are focused on solutions that are responsible, cost-effective and sensitive to the environment and local values.

A short-term solution to support water security

To help secure the local water supply in the short term, SGW has implemented a supplementary water option that involves transferring water from the disused Korumburra reservoirs to the Leongatha storage.

This is being achieved through the construction of a temporary, above-ground pipeline approximately 8.5 kilometres long, extending across several private land parcels and sections of council road reserve. The pipeline carries untreated (raw) water and is part of an emergency water supply measure.

A positive outcome for the community

This approach is a practical and balanced solution that delivers strong benefits for the community, including:

• Improved water security for Leongatha
• Minimal to no impact on the environment, to cultural heritage and to local Giant Earthworm habitats
• A cost-effective and responsible solution that avoids major permanent infrastructure

SGW is working closely with South Gippsland Shire Council (SGSC) and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA) to ensure the project is well-coordinated and aligned with broader environmental and community objectives.

Looking ahead

While this temporary pipeline helps address short-term needs, engineering investigations and planning for a long-term water security solution are also underway. These are expected to be completed within the next five years to ensure a resilient and sustainable water supply for the region into the future.

SGW will continue to keep landholders and the broader community informed as the project progresses.