Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey on Wednesday at the official opening of Stage 1 of the Mandamah Rural Water Supply Scheme.
The $4.5 million project is the first part of a $10.9 million plan to improve water supply to the Mandamah community.
“This is a fantastic scheme which will usher in a new era of water security for Mandamah,” Ms Cooke said.
“Before this project, farmers had to either rely on rainfall for their water supply, or cart water themselves – this was a chore which they had been dutifully undertaking for decades.
“Now they have water piped directly to their properties which they will use for their domestic, stock and cropping needs.
“It’s a wonderful investment by Goldenfields Water in the Mandamah community, but it’s also an outstanding example of collaboration with the community.
“Each farmer has contributed $50,000 towards this first stage and I’d like to thank them for their help in making this dream a reality.
“I’d also like to thank Minister for Water Melinda Pavey for being part of this truly significant day and helping us turn the tap to mark the official opening of Stage 1.”
Stage 1 has taken two years to complete and has created two reservoirs holding 650,000 litres each, feeding to 60 kilometres of pipe. These are connected to 23 water meters across the region.
David McCann, Deputy Chairman of Goldenfields Water, highlighted the significance of working with the community.
“The collaboration and dedication displayed across all departments of Goldenfields Water, the Mandamah Water Association and Mandamah Farmers is what has brought us here today, to celebrate the Stage 1 opening of this $10.9 million project, solely funded by Goldenfields Water and the Mandamah Farmers.”
