South Gippsland Water is supporting smarter and more efficient water use across the region through its WaterSmart initiative, with funding provided to South Gippsland Shire Council to implement advanced water monitoring at key community facilities. WaterSmart is a Victorian government funded program implemented by South Gippsland Water assisting local businesses, councils and other organisations to […]
South Gippsland Water is supporting smarter and more efficient water use across the region through its WaterSmart initiative, with funding provided to South Gippsland Shire Council to implement advanced water monitoring at key community facilities.
WaterSmart is a Victorian government funded program implemented by South Gippsland Water assisting local businesses, councils and other organisations to become more water efficient.
The WaterSmart program has enabled the installation of VicFacilities data loggers at around 15 council-managed sites, including Coal Creek, council depots and offices, South Gippsland SPLASH, and swimming pool facilities in Korumburra and Toora. The initiative has also been extended to three additional sites located within the Gippsland Water catchment in Mirboo North.
South Gippsland Water Managing Director, Robert Murphy, said the program is delivering real, measurable benefits for both council and the community.
“The WaterSmart initiative is about helping organisations better understand how and where water is being used, so issues can be identified early and water can be managed more efficiently,” Mr Murphy said. “By supporting South Gippsland Shire Council to roll out this technology, we’re helping to reduce water loss, lower operating costs and protect this vital resource for the future.”
As part of the three-year program, VicFacilities will arrange installation and connection of data loggers and water meters at each site, provide continuous water monitoring, offer secure access to real-time data through the VicFacilities online portal and issue high water use email alerts.
South Gippsland Shire Council’s Executive Director Infrastructure Sustainability, David Fice, said the VicFacilities data loggers have already proven highly effective.
“The alert function is very helpful, providing close to real-time notifications via email the day after higher-than-normal usage,” Mr Fice explained. “These alerts have identified several high water use events at swimming pool facilities, which were investigated promptly as a direct result of the data.”
Mr Fice also highlighted the value of continuous monitoring for facilities with complex leak histories.
“At one site that has historically experienced complicated leaks, the data has allowed us to confirm whether repair works are actually resolving the issue, rather than waiting for the next water bill,” he said. “This has significantly reduced wasted water and helped identify where further works are needed by analysing usage when different parts of the facility are turned off.”
Mr Murphy said initiatives like WaterSmart demonstrate the power of partnerships.
“When water authorities, councils and technology providers work together, the outcomes are stronger and more sustainable,” he said. “Programs like this help ensure every drop counts, now and into the future.”