Project to safeguard Tomato Lake, Belmont from septic tank contamination

21/7/98

The popular recreational area of Tomato Lake in Belmont will be safeguarded from septic tank contamination under a major Infill Sewerage project announced today.

Water Resources Minister Dr Kim Hames said the $4 million project would provide a significant boost to the local environment by preventing pollution of vital groundwater resources and reducing nutrient run off into the lake.

The Minister said the lake, a natural wetland, attracted many species of native water birds and was a popular site for birdwatching and family recreation.

"However, over the years, development pressures including septic tanks have caused some harm to the wetland," he said.

"This project gives us the chance to restore it to a natural, healthy state."

Dr Hames said the Infill Sewerage project would complement moves by the Belmont City Council to rehabilitate the lake by planting native water plants and grasses.

Plans were already under way to form a Friends of Tomato Lake group among local residents to restore and maintain the wetland.

"Unfortunately, experience has shown us the harm that nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus do to our waterways and wetlands," the Minister said.

"In the past, septic tanks have been a big culprit.

"I would urge people to connect as soon as possible to the reticulated sewerage system which enables home owners to reduce that damage. They will end up with a much more convenient system that's virtually maintenance-free, unlike many old septic tanks."

Dr Hames said the large scale of the project demonstrated the strength of the State Government's commitment to the $800 million Infill Sewerage Program.

"Not only will there be benefits to the environment and public health, but it will boost Belmont's development potential," he said.

A total of 525 lots, including more than 70 duplex properties, will be offered connection points in the project.

Contractor Rob Carr Pty Ltd will carry out construction of a pump station and pressure main and 12 km of gravity sewers in the project which is scheduled for completion in mid-1999.

The project area centres on Oats Street and Orrong Road and includes Kewdale Senior High School adjacent to Tomato Lake. It is generally bounded by Mercury, Star and President Streets and Kambalda Way.

Microtunnelling is also proposed in selected areas including through the park area associated with Tomato Lake to prevent disturbing existing, well established trees.

For more information, please contact Water Corporation Project Manager Ian Michelmore on Ph: (08) 9420 3306.

Media statement: Caroline Lacy (08)9424 7450.

Water Corporation: Phil Kneebone (08)9420 2420.