With 144 applications received so far, this response marks substantial progress.
The Fisherman Bay Freehold Project, which reached practical completion in April, included the installation of a new vacuum wastewater collection system.
The vacuum system was chosen due to unfavourable ground conditions and Fisherman Bay’s proximity to the coast, making a traditional gravity system unfeasible.
The new vacuum system is cost-effective to operate and maintain, transporting sewage from Fisherman Bay properties to the Port Broughton Wastewater Treatment Plant via a pump station and a 3.1 kilometre long rising main. This collection network, pump station and rising main have been fully funded by Fisherman Bay Management.
Fisherman Bay properties without a fully compliant wastewater system must be connected to the new system by 2026.
To assist in this process, Barunga West Council has engaged H2H Plumbing as a preferred service provider. Ratepayers have the option to finance their connection over four years through a special rate structure, saving on GST and administration costs. Plumbing work started in April 2024, and H2H Plumbing has connected 60 out of the 120 properties that opted for their services.
In the past 24 months, Council has received 11 development applications for new builds at Fisherman Bay. As of this month, four new houses have been built and connected to the system, with seven houses under construction. Some properties will not connect immediately due to plans for demolition and new construction.
The new vacuum system is now operating at 100 per cent after initial concerns about the power supply were resolved with the installation of new soft starters and a harmonic filter.
Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope said: “This progress brings the community closer to full connectivity, ensuring a sustainable and efficient wastewater management solution for Fisherman Bay. We are pleased the Fisherman Bay Freehold Project has reached practical completion and Council acknowledges the work of all plumbers in connecting properties to the system within a two-year timeframe.”