Stage 2 of Oura upgrade well underway

Published on 13 February 2024

Works on the $12.6M stage 2 upgrade for the Oura Water Treatment Plant, which supplies water functions to the Junee, Temora, West Wyalong, Ariah Park, Ardlethan, Ungarie and surrounding communities are well underway. 

Stage 2 commenced in September 2023 and despite some minor delays late last year, the project is on track for completion by the end of 2024.

Stage 2 will see the inclusion of two new reservoirs and aerator which will help meet the region’s growing population demands.  The upgrade will also allow for an additional 6 megalitres to be stored at any one time, reducing operating costs and ensuring an ample supply for customers during peak summer periods.

Last week, the projects contractors poured the base of the second reservoir.  Over 130 cubic metres of concrete was used to fill each of the two 24m diameter bases.  Each reservoir will stand approximately 11 metres high with an aerator positioned above, which will help facilitate removal of minerals that can contribute to discoloured water.

The reservoir walls are currently being poured and will be completed in the coming months.  A total of 24 individual panels will be poured for each reservoir, then lifted via a crane individually, each panel weighing in at approximately 22 tonnes.  The reservoir will be secured using a post tension method, which is more cost effective and superior to typical reinforced reservoirs when it can be employed. 

Tenders are currently being compiled for Stage 3, which will be the final stage of the project and will include the design and construction of a new pump station and dosing facilities.