December 20 2006

Malanda to ditch out-dated septic tanks: Fraser

Eacham Shire Council will receive an additional $1.94 million from the Queensland Government to start providing the small township of Malanda with a reticulated sewerage network.

Announcing the funding today, Local Government and Planning Minister Andrew Fraser said in larger cities and towns, reticulated sewerage was often taken for granted.

“Malanda currently relies on out-dated household septic tanks and the town does not have a dedicated sewerage treatment plant,” Mr Fraser said.

“Reticulated sewerage is safer, cleaner and more environmentally friendly than on-site tanks that require emptying, are prone to leakage into the soil and can overflow during heavy rain.

“The project will be funded in stages, with the first major aspect the construction of sewerage treatment plant on the town’s outskirts.

“It often too expensive for councils to supply reticulated sewerage networks to small communities, so the only option councils have is to pass on the costs to rate payers.

“This funding will prevent that and alleviate the burden on rate payers.

“The new facility will be able to supply 1400 people and will be capable of treating wastewater to quality high enough so it can be reused for irrigation and other non-drinking purposes.”

The construction of the plant is expected to be complete by June 2008, after which the construction of the town’s sewerage network will begin linking houses up to the new plant.

Media Contact: Selina Steele 3224 6509 or 0417 752 833