Greater Western Water’s recycled water flows to the elephants

Greater Western Water (GWW) has played a key role in welcoming a herd of nine Asian elephants to Werribee Open Range Zoo.

The water corporation supported the development of the zoo's new elephant habitat by constructing a 2.5km pipeline connecting recycled water produced at the local Werribee Recycled Water Plant to the zoo.

The new pipeline provides the zoo with a reliable, sustainable water supply, reducing their reliance on precious drinking water supplies and supports the long-term resilience of our waterways.

Greater Western Water's Acting General Manager for Growth and Infrastructure Janet Condy said it is wonderful to see the elephants splashing about in their new habitat with their fit-for-purpose water supply.

"The $9.5 million pipeline project, delivered in partnership with Jaydo, has helped to create a healthy new home for the elephants."

 "The pipeline will supply the zoo with around 150 million litres of Class A recycled water each year, with the capacity to expand to 400 million litres as the zoo grows," she said.

The project was supported with $2 million from the Victorian Government's Integrated Water Management Program.

In addition to constructing the recycled water pipeline, Greater Western Water has installed Choose Tap fountains with drinking water at the zoo for visitors to enjoy as they explore the new elephant habitat.

The recycled water meets strict health and safety standards and is safe for the elephants and other animals. The zoo is receiving Class A recycled water that has been further treated to remove salt, making it safe for the elephants' habitat.

This water supply will also be enjoyed by the hippopotamuses, and used to irrigate the zoo's landscapes, keeping its green spaces looking luscious all year round.

Learn more about the pipeline, and GWW's upcoming major projects.

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