Bemboka, on the NSW South Coast, is in line for an update to its water supply system. Photo: Bega Valley Shire Council.
A small South Coast township could have a new water source in the new year.
Bega Valley Shire Council has started construction work to replace Bemboka’s reservoir, after a review of the existing infrastructure found it needed to be replaced.
The first phase of the works, beginning in early October, will involve foundation construction and pipework installation.
It is expected to be completed by the end of November (if weather permits).
“Council thanks the community for their patience while these important works are undertaken,” a spokesperson said.
The existing tank (a 420 kL, 15-metre high Permastore reservoir) was built in 1988, but a review recently found it had reached the end of its serviceable life.1
In response, the council decided to install a new fusion bonded epoxy tank (FBE).
The new tank will be of a similar size and capacity to the existing one.
According to the council, its installation will cost around $1,212,000. About $1,800,000 had been set aside from council’s water fund for the project, but this estimated cost was reduced following negotiations.
According to a council meeting from earlier this year, initial attempts to find a tenderer were unsuccessful.
Councillors voted in November 2024 to reject all tenders and negotiate with their preferred tenderer.
“The Bemboka Reservoir Renewal tender process allowed for various tank construction types, and after negotiations with the preferred tenderer, FBE tank was selected as the optimal option due to its superior corrosion resistance, durability, impact resistance, and on-site repair capability,” council documents state.
“While the FBE tank may experience gradual colour fading, this is primarily aesthetic and can be mitigated by a community mural, …. With the intention to achieve significant cost savings, the project team explored the possibility of engaging directly with the tank supplier and having internal council staff deliver the project.”
The next stage of the works (construction of the tank) is expected to start in February 2026, while it will be commissioned in March.
It will be located to the north of the blue tank, according to the council’s website.
The existing reservoir is also scheduled for demolition early next year.
“During construction, the existing reservoir will continue to operate, ensuring residents have access to safe drinking water with no major disruptions,” a council spokesperson said.
“There may be short water supply interruptions when it is time to switch over to the new tank in early 2026, but council will provide advance notice to all affected properties.”
The council warns that residents may notice heavy vehicle movement while works are underway, especially along Robertson Street.
Traffic control measures will be put in place as required.
