Shoalhaven Technical Tour
| Friday, September 6, 2024 |
| 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM |
Overview
Details
Come join us to hear about agriculture and horticulture irrigation case studies around and to the South of Sydney, Shoalhaven Region.
You will visit the Callala Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) including its bulk storage, distribution storage and chlorination facility along with the treated water distribution network/ grid for the region, followed by some of the dairy and other farms using that water for fodder irrigation and other purposes.
There will be an opportunity to meet some of the owners and discuss the benefits and challenges of the scheme.
On the way back, visit the Kiama Blowhole. The blowhole was formed from basalt lava flows approximately 260 million years ago and was first discovered by local Aboriginals who named it 'Khanterinte'. It attracts approx. 900,000 visitors a year! We are told by locals that there is a better than 50% chance of spotting a migrating whale at that time of year.
You will depart from the International Convention Centre (ICC) at 7am and return approx. 4pm.
Overview
The Reclaimed Effluent Management Scheme (REMS) is a major water recycling project funded by Shoalhaven City Council, the NSW and Commonwealth Governments, and individual irrigators. REMS Stage 1A, which cost $34 million, began in January 2002. It supports irrigation for 22 dairy farms, a golf course, and various sports grounds over 500 hectares.
Key components include:
- Coonemia Bulk Storage: Holds 600ML for wet weather storage and dry period use.
- Bulk Storage Return Pump Station: Pumps reclaimed water when demand exceeds supply.
- Coonemia Distribution Storage Reservoir: A 4ML reservoir that maintains constant water pressure.
- Vincentia Wastewater Treatment Plant: Upgraded to provide tertiary treated water.
- Culburra Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant: Upgraded for tertiary treatment.
- Callala Wastewater Treatment Plant: Built to provide tertiary treated water.
- St Georges Basin Wastewater Treatment Plant: Produces secondary treated water, pumped to Vincentia for further treatment.
- Vincentia Transfer Main: A 15km pipeline that supplies reclaimed water.
- Distribution Mains: An 18km pipeline system serving agricultural land.
- Farm Balance Ponds & Flow Control Works: Stores daily irrigation supply with automated control valves for rationing during low supply periods.
