Goulburn Waterworks receives new water pipeline

Councillors were told at their most recent meeting that erosion behind the cottage had exposed some 15 to 20 metres of pipe along the embankment. It followed several storms during the year.

A section of the pipe broke in June and was replaced, business manager of marketing, events and culture, Sarah Ruberto reported.

"The concern is that the pipes will break as much of (them) are exposed mid-air without any support. Additionally, sections of the exposed pipe are aged, rusty and out of shape. If the pipe were the entire site would have to be shut down," she stated.

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Given several large events were coming up, including a talk during History Week on September 8 and the Steampunk Victoriana Fair on October 19 to 20, Mrs Ruberto said there was a need to act.

"A failure of the waterline during these events would be a work, health and safety risk to council staff, volunteers and to the public given the need for water to run the boilers, as well as hygiene and food safety risks," she wrote.

"If a failure were to occur prior to or during Steampunk, thereby causing it to be cancelled, this would be a large financial loss for the council and may impact on attendance by the public, market holders and artists at future Steampunk events."

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The council will allocate $44,218 to install a new water line and meter to the cottage from the neighbouring estate to the pumphouse and cafe. The work will include backflow devices, frost protection and pipe insulation.

Mrs Ruberto said this was the "most appropriate solution" to avoid future maintenance.

As there is insufficient money in the Waterworks allocation, the funds will be identified as part of the budget's quarterly review.

Corporate and community services director Brendan Hollands said there were several funding options available.

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