As the flowers start to bloom and the weather warms up across the region, we are continuing our work to progress our proposed plans to upgrade the Castlemaine Water Reclamation Plant. We’re getting ready for a major upgrade of the plant, as well as building assets for the community to enjoy along the way.

Since our last update, we have begun our procurement process, which involves advertising the upcoming works for tender. This is the first step of a long and thorough process to engage a delivery partner who will help construct and operate the new plant.

We’ve received planning permit approval from Mount Alexander Shire Council to build the upgraded water reclamation plant, which means we’ve cleared a key milestone for local planning requirements.

We’re also in the final stages of approvals for the project’s business case, which is a detailed document explaining the proposed plant upgrade, to help inform government decision-making.

We’ve recently installed a second new blower, which assists with aeration during the treatment process. They are essentially big fans that circulate oxygen through the large tanks. We are preparing to install a third blower in the coming months.

We encourage you to call us on 1300 363 200 to report odour. The more we receive these reports, the more we can build a picture of the areas of our plant that need the most urgent attention. 

In August, we hosted Bird Life Castlemaine and the Friends of Campbells Creek as we opened our bird hide, a new viewing shelter to watch the birds visiting the lagoons in the reclamation plant. This hide is accessible through the Old Pioneers Cemetery Reserve. To gain access, you will need to email bcwrp.upgrade@coliban.com.au and fill out a Bird Hide User Agreement.

We have already had a number of people take this opportunity up and get on the look out for the feathered friends who call our plant home.

Our next update will be on Friday 31 October 2025.