Council delivers key water infrastructure upgrades across the region
Posted on August 5, 2026
Central Highlands Regional Council is delivering several important water and wastewater projects to help provide safe, reliable services for local communities.
At Bauhinia, council is upgrading the town’s water treatment facilities with a new solar-powered chlorination system. The new system will automatically produce and dose chlorine while allowing council staff to monitor and manage operations remotely. The upgrade will improve water quality, reliability, and day-to-day efficiency. The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Central Highlands Regional Council. Australian Government funding is provided through the National Water Grid Fund under the Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions initiative.
In Blackwater, council is completing works to improve how treated wastewater is managed. A new automated pipeline connection will allow treated water from the Blackwater Wastewater Treatment Plant to be transferred to an approved neighbouring property when existing irrigation areas at the golf course and Hunter Street sports fields reach capacity, particularly during wet weather. This will help maintain onsite storage and reduce the risk of overflow into the environment.
In Capella, repair works are underway on the town’s raw water channel, which was significantly damaged during the 2025 wet season. The channel plays a vital role in capturing and moving water to storage dams that supply the town’s drinking water. Repairs will ensure the system is ready before the next wet season and able to replenish water supplies for the year ahead.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Graeme Kanofski said the projects were practical investments that would deliver long-term benefits for local communities.
‘Access to reliable water and wastewater services is something our communities depend on every day,’ Mr Kanofski said.
‘These upgrades will improve water quality, strengthen the reliability of our infrastructure and help us better manage our water resources into the future.
‘With $8.9 million being invested in critical water infrastructure this financial year, we’re ensuring our communities continue to have safe and dependable water services while planning for future needs.’
