Red alert for Lake St Clair waters at Singleton

BY DAKOTA TAIT

WaterNSW has issued a red alert for Lake St Clair due to potentially toxic Dolichospermum circinale present in the water body. 

The red alert means the public should not enter or consume water, undertake recreational activities such as swimming, water skiing, and canoeing.

Lake St Clair Park remains open to visitors, but pets and livestock should also be kept away from the water. 

We're being urged to avoid fishing during a bloom, and before consumption, any fish caught should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water and any internal organs should not be eaten. 

It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels. 

Regular monitoring is continuing, and the alert will be lifted when two consecutive results below the alert level have been recorded.

Hunter residents encouraged to show their love for water

BY SHY-ANN ARKINSTALL

It's Hunter Water's third annual Love Water Day this Saturday, and part of the celebrations for National Water Week.

Hunter locals are being encouraged to get involved by sharing photos or short videos online of how you use smart water practices at home and at work.

We're being reminded we can save water at home by sticking to a four-minute shower, using a trigger nozzle on your hose, watering your garden before 10 am or after 4 pm and ensuring any leaks are fixed as soon as possible.

It's hoped little changes such as these will ensure generations to come are able to live free of fear from water scarcity. 

Hunter Water will also continue to collaborate with schools to ensure the next generation has the knowledge to protect our most precious resource.

With summer quickly approaching, Hunter Water's Renee Fedder says the community needs a reminder about how important it is to conserve water, even during floods.

"It's really important that we're all making smart water choices in our everyday lives," she said.

"Water is fundamental to life and everything that we do, so while it may feel like it's all around us at the moment, it's really important that we do those small things in our homes that can really make big changes for our future."

Citizen scientists call for temperature research after Mannering Park fish kill

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Citizen scientists are calling for more research into thermal pollution in the wake of a mass fish kill at Mannering Park in August.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) concluded earlier this week, the mass death was sparked when winds and cooler weather met the warmer water temperatures cause by the discharge of Vales Point Power Station, overturning the water column.

The Hunter Community Environment Centre (HCEC) agrees with the EPA's verdict, but argues it's a sign more research into the issue is needed.

Senior Researcher Paul Winn says it's already having an impact. 

"That thermal pollution is already known to have caused the almost total loss of seagrass in Wyee Bay, and the EPA reacted to that loss, and reduced its thermal pollution," he said.

"But what we're mostly concerned about is the impact on the broader ecosystem - the impact on the fishing, on the fish species, and the species mix that we're going to get."

It's likely a number of tropical species attracted by or adapted to the warmer water in the bay were also shocked by the event. 

Chemical pollution and toxicity levels were normal, though nitrogen and phosphorus testing indicated the sediment had been disturbed, likely when the water column was overturned.

The EPA says it has deployed a smart buoy at Wyee Point to monitor the lake, but the HCEC is pushing for a full study.

"When these power stations were built, they were built just to make power," Mr Winn said. "They didn't really care whether they were going to have an impact or not."

"Now I think people have moved since then, and we expect a lot more from our industries and we expect more from our regulators. We want to make sure these industrial plants are going to be able to continue to be operated, up until their closure date, in a safe manner."

Vales Point Power Station is due to close its doors in 2029, though Delta Electricity has indicated in the past it would seek to extend its lifespan.

Mr Winn says simply closing the station won't resolve the issue, however.

"At some stage this power station is going to close," he said. "And the concerns that we have for this closure is that this thermal pollution, these ecosystems have adapted to to some degree over the years, with the introduction of eagle rays and green turtles."

"If that thermal pollution is turned off when the power station closes, we're likely to see a much larger and broader fish kill, because those warmer adapted species aren't going to be able to survive any more."

"We need to reduce that thermal pollution over some period of time, to allow those species and those ecosystems to adapt, and that's currently not being contemplated by either the EPA or the power station."

Image credit: Hunter Community Environment Centre.

$6 million set to be pumped into Lake Macquarie recycled water irrigation project

BY ALEXANDRA REES

Hunter Water is set to implement a $6 million recycled water project, in collaboration with Lake Macquarie Council. 

The project will see the implementation of an irrigation system, to maintain community parks and sporting fields.

It's hoped the increased water capacity at the Edgeworth Wastewater Treatment Works will make more recycled water available to a number of local ovals, including Jack McLaughlin Oval and Pasterfield Sports Complex.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser says the council is dedicated to making the city's future more sustainable.

"This long-term water efficiency initiative will reduce the use of drinking water for irrigation in favor of alternative water sources," she said.

"It will also ensure we can keep our sporting fields, gardens and other public spaces green, which is important for the amenity and wellbeing of our community."

The decision comes as a response to the 2019 droughts, which left devastating water shortages across the Hunter. 

Hunter Water Managing Director Darren Cleary says it's an important initiative for the community.

"Our community increasingly expects Hunter Water to improve our regions water resilience and sustainability," he said.

 

"That's the real benefit from this project; improving the resilience of beautiful community assets."

The investment is expected to save the equivalent of eight Olympic swimming pools of water. 

Image credit: Hunter Water.

Cease-to-pump rules scrapped for the Lower Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Cease-to-pump rules put forward by the State Government have been scrapped for the Lower Hunter, after farmers across the region raised the alarm, it could cripple agricultural activities.

The move would have restricted the amount of water that irrigators could draw from the Hunter River in summer, in hopes to safeguard the freshwater supply downstream and the health of the system.

Farmers voiced their concerns, saying crops wouldn't survive and measures are already in place to manage salinity and water usage.

Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell says the Water Minister has confirmed, the rules will not be included as part of a water-sharing plan in the Lower Hunter. 

Once it's set in stone in July, the plan will be in effect for ten years.

Mr Layzell says he's worked hard with the community, and is hoping to see the rules abandoned in the rest of the Hunter as well.

Blue-green algae sparks red alert in the Hunter River

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Local Land Services is warning, the Hunter River upstream of Glenbawn Dam is at red alert, due to the presence of blue-green algae.  

Landowners are being advised to remove livestock from the foreshores.   

Other water users are advised to avoid all contact with the water.  

Recent inflows could have changed the conditions, but locals should wait for the advisory to be lifted.  

Works on Newcastle Ocean Baths to begin next month

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Revitalization works on the Newcastle Ocean Baths are set to get started on March14.

The $14.5 million stage one works include a new pump system, a renewed boardwalk, and improved disability access with a ramp and handrail.

The bleacher seating will be retained, but a controversial plan to concrete the pool's rock floor will go ahead.

The City of Newcastle says it won't affect sand buildup on the bottom of the pool, but admitted it will consider manually replacing sand after its annual clean, depending on weather and swell conditions.

A second stage of works will focus on upgrading the pavilion and surrounding public spaces.

The Ocean Baths will be closed while works are underway, expected to be wrapped up mid-2023.

Solar Set to Help Water Bills and the Environment

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

Hunter Water is aiming to reduce costs for its customers as well as its impact on the environment through a $15 million upgrade of the utility's energy systems.

The NSW Government programme will contribute to Hunter Water's plans to become "carbon neutral" by 2030.

The corporation cites electricity costs as one of its major expenses, accounting for about 10 per cent of annual costs.

An array of solar panels have been constructed and are now ready for installation at the Branxton Wastewater Treatment Works. The corporations's Managing Director, Darren Cleary, says the plans are "a win for both our customers and the environment".

"The solar array at Branxton is the first project in a $15 million programme of works over the next four years with the aim of reducing our carbon footprint and reducing our electricity costs.

"We hope the project will deliver a reduction in our carbon emissions by 7,200 tonnes per year. That's the equivalent of taking 1,500 cars a year off the road as well as delivering savings for our electricity bill of over one million dollars each year," Mr Cleary said.

"So, a great outcome for both our customers and the environment."

The project was announced by NSW Water Minister, Melinda Pavey, who says a range of other sites are being shortlisted for solar upgrades.

“This investment is all about innovation and supporting jobs in the Hunter while also reducing Hunter Water’s electricity bill,” Mrs Pavey said.

“The 100 kilowatt system at Branxton Wastewater Treatment Works is the first in Hunter Water’s push for many solar projects, with savings generated helping to maintain affordable bills,” she said.

Sites at Morpeth, Kurri Kurri, and Raymond Terrace are among 20 which are part of the initial rollout.

It's expected the 252-panel installation at Branxton will contribute to an eventual $1.5 million electricity saving each year.

Hunter Water says its also considering other ways of reducing its environmental impacts while being mindful of household water bills.

"We'll continue to look at the technology as it evolves, as well as emerging technologies such as battery storage technology and floating solar," Mr Cleary said.

"We'll be pursuing these opportunities wherever they're viable."

The water utility says the project will deliver a 7.37% reduction in its electricity usage.

"Looking at our energy costs is really a great sustainability outcome. It has the benefits of both reducing costs - which is great for our customers - as well as reducing our environmental impact by reducing our carbon emissions," Mr Cleary said.

Mr Cleary says the solar upgrades are just one aspect of a range of new technologies being used in the Hunter region's water system.

"We've just commissioned a smart control system for our water network that looks at optimising our pumping regime to to minimise electricity use and energy costs. So it's a major focus of our organisation and that's because it has the dual benefits of reducing our resource consumption by reducing our carbon emissions and how much electricity we consume as well as reducing costs," he said.

Hunter Water says more information of its sustainability initiatives can be found at www.hunterwater.com.au/our-water/sustainability

The $15 million solar project is hoped to reduce carbon emissions as well as provide savings for customers. Image: Hunter Water

Hunter Water and Aboriginal Communities Release Children's eBook on Water Care this National Reconciliation Week

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter Water has teamed up with local Aboriginal and education communities to release an industry-first children's eBook designed to teach kids about the importance of water conservation.

Where's Our Water was launched today to coincide with National Reconciliation Week, and tells a story about native animals in the Hunter River by drawing on the traditional knowledge and practices of Aboriginal people in caring for land and waterways.

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the book was more relevant than ever as regional communities move on from drought.

"It’s important we continue to teach our younger generation about the finite and precious nature of water,” Mrs Pavey said. “Where’s Our Water? is a valuable resource for our kids to learn about water conservation and the role we all have in protecting it now and in the future.”

Hunter Water worked with the University of Newcastle and local Awabakal and Worimi communities to develop the book over a six-month period - and with ten Aboriginal students from Newcastle High School, they created the story and concept through interactive workshops.

The book was also endorsed by the Muloobinbah Local Aboriginal Education Consultative Group.

Hunter-based Aboriginal artist Saretta Fielding said it was a privilege to help bring the project to life.

“I’m particularly proud that the story has been developed in two versions to incorporate
the traditional languages of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, demonstrating the shared value of this resource within our community,” Ms Fielding said.

Image credit: Hunter Water

Singleton Considers Mandatory Water Restrictions

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

Low Level water restrictions could become mandatory for Singleton residents, as Council looks at preserving its falling water supply levels.

Levels at Glennies Creek Dam have fallen to 54-per-cent and if dry weather continues, enforced restrictions could come into place in the area.

Singleton Mayor, Councillor Sue Moore, says Council is working carefully to preserve the water supply.

“Water is an important resource and we need to be mindful of how we use and preserve water even in good conditions,” she said.

The Level 1 (low level) restrictions were applied to Singleton last year, but only on a voluntary basis.

Council says its pleased to see residents have already been saving water, but is considering enforcing its low level restrictions, similar to Sydney.

"It’s great to see the people of Singleton have taken on board tips to save water".

Cr More says water levels and usage are being monitored and Council will consider enforcing water rules if drought conditions continue.

“Council is closely monitoring the status of water in order to inform the need to implement mandatory low level restrictions in the next few months, because of concerns about the supply of water into the future particularly if drought conditions worsen," she said.

According to Singleton Council, the restrictions for residential properties would mean:

• Watering of lawns by watering systems, microsprays, drip systrems, soaker hoses, non fixed sprinklers and hand-held hoses may only occur between 6am to 10am and 4pm to 10pm daily in winter 
• Watering of residential gardens by watering systems, microsprays, drip systems, soaker hoses, non fixed sprinklers and hand-held hoses may only occur between 6am to 10am and 4pm to 10pm daily in winter
• Topping up or filling of garden water features is permitted
• Irrigation of new turf is permitted for one week after laying, which after level 1 restriction of watering lawns applies
• Washing down of walls or paved surfaces is not permitted.

Residents are advised that if the restrictions come into place, they will be enforced.

“If mandatory restrictions are introduced, penalties will apply to customers found to be misusing water," Cr Moore said.

The restrictions were introduced on a voluntary basis, but could become mandatory if dry conditions continue. (Image: Singleton Council)

Bulga Water Supply project takes next step

BY GEMMA FERGUSON

Singleton Council has decided on its final plans for the Bulga Water Supply project at an ordinary meeting on Monday night.

The proposal came from Council's move to provide potable (drinking) water to those without, such as the Bulga community.

Between the two options presented to the Councillors, option B - covering 14.8kms between Broke and Bulga and servicing 186 properties - emerged victoriously.

Council says the associated benefits, economic and otherwise, was a main factor in the decision-making process.

"We'll move forward with design specifics and further consultation of people along that route and continue to apply for grant funding," Director of Planning and Infrastructure, Mark Ihlein, said.

"We want to continue being fair and equitable, without raising rates and making our locals pay too much for it," he added.

Mr Ihlein says the Council has reserved funding to subsidised a portion of the project, but without additional support, the estimated $11.3 million project is yet to begin construction.

Take 3 for the Sea in Maitland

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Two free events will be held in Maitland this weekend as part of a year-long calendar of initiatives in support of environmental sustainability.

An environmental documentary screening and community-clean up event will be held at Maitland Park tonight and tomorrow to encourage community members to take active steps in reducing their carbon footprint as part of the Take 3 for the Sea movement.

Environmentalist Tim Silverwood says measures like the supermarket plastic bag ban are a good thing, but it's up to individuals to make a difference.

"I think putting a fee on plastic bags is a really good move," he said, "we know if these items are free people will take them at will, but as soon as you put a charge on it, people will think twice."

Mr Silverwood believes the issues of global warming and ocean pollution are interconnected.

"If we allow our atmosphere to be full of carbon dioxide which is then going to be absorbed by the oceans, then the oceans will suffer and we will suffer the consequences..."

Tonight at 6:30, award-winning documentary Blue the film will screen at Hoyts Green Hills, while on Saturday the community clean up will take place at Maitland Park from 10am, with a free sausage sizzle.

Image: Tim Silverwood.