New Orange-Molong water pipeline being commissioned

Published on 21 February 2020

Orange City and Cabonne Councils are commissioning a new pipeline, which will help to secure Molong’s water supply.

The commissioning of the $16 million pipeline is another major milestone for the NSW Government’s $37 million Central West Water Security Project, which also included the construction of a pipeline from Orange to Blayney and Carcoar.

With no significant inflows into Molong Creek Dam, the commissioning of the pipeline will enable Cabonne Council to buy a small amount of water each day to ensure Molong does not run dry.

An agreement was reached late last year for Cabonne Council to buy up to 160 litres of water per person per day as an emergency measure should it be needed.

Despite Molong residents using below their targeted daily water consumption, Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty (pictured) said the water now was required until other options currently being developed by the Council are put in place.

"We are working with the State Government and neighbouring water authorities on ongoing solutions to the current situation," Cr Beatty said.

Latest readings showed Molong residents used 133 litres per person per day, well below the 160 litres target for the current Level 5 restrictions.

Cr Beatty thanked Orange City Council for its cooperation in this regional water security measure, saying it demonstrated the strong working relationship cooperation between the two councils.

As is usual when there is a change of water source, residents may notice some difference in the taste and odour of the water, however there is no cause for concern.