Meet us at the market to shape Lorne’s water future

Barwon Water will be in Lorne this weekend to hear from the community about how to ensure the town’s long-term water security.

Via the Lorne: Water, Your Say initiative, Barwon Water is seeking to better understand local insights and priorities, to develop a sustainable and resilient water future for the town.

A Community Working Group (CWG), established in 2023, is helping to inform the project.

The CWG’s key principles and values are equity, affordability, environmental sustainability, and open-mindedness.

General Manager Planning, Delivery and Environment Seamus Butcher said the project was moving to the next phase.

“We’re continuing to take the thoughts and feedback from the CWG on board and are now seeking ideas from the broader Lorne community,” Mr Butcher said.

Barwon Water will host a stall at the Lorne Community Market on Saturday 2 November.

Employees will be on hand to provide details on the Lorne: Water, Your Say project, and to hear people’s thoughts on the best options to secure Lorne’s drinking water for the long term.

“We’re encouraging people who wish to have their say on Lorne’s water future to come see us at the market, or to fill out our survey,” Mr Butcher said.

The survey, and more information about Lorne: Water, Your Say, can be found at www.yoursay.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/lorne-hub

Hard copies of the survey will be at the market stall and are available upon request.

While Lorne’s water supply is currently secure, the project aims to plan and implement actions for long-term water security.

Broad community engagement has already been carried out on the project, including on the values and principles to guide water security options, sustainable water use, and education initiatives.

Community members with any questions about the project can contact the Barwon Water team at projects@barwonwater.vic.gov.au or 1300 656 007.

Lorne Water Treatment Plant.