Waldron condemns Minister for leaving small towns in sewerage mess

Author: Terry Waldron
Published on: 29-February-2008

The Nationals deputy leader and Member for Wagin Terry Waldron has labelled the State Government’s treatment of regional towns pathetic, after a six-month overdue review concluded that the deep sewerage program for small country towns should be canned.

Mr Waldron said it was unacceptable that the Government should withdraw funding for basic infrastructure when Hyden residents had to contend with raw sewerage on the town streets from the septic tank overflow.

“The towns of Kukerin, Kondinin and Hyden are the three communities that were due to be connected to deep sewerage before the Government review halted the program last year,” Mr Waldron said.

“I am extremely disappointed with the Government’s failure to provide what should be a basic service to these towns and that they have reneged on their commitment to these communities.”

Mr Waldron said he was working in conjunction with the Shire of Kondinin to finalise a potential deal for towns to access deep sewerage infrastructure through a private company.

“The Government’s failure to deliver means the communities have no choice but to look into doing something themselves,” he said. “The next step is a public meeting at Hyden on March 26 to discuss the option of endorsing a proposal from a private organisation that owns an innovative waste water and sewerage technology."

Mr Waldron said if the community backed the proposal, he would approach Water Minister John Kobelke for funding to get a plant up and running.

The new technology, which has been operating successfully in America for 30 years, would reuse wastewater by irrigating ovals, parks, gardens and with the possibility for stock water and other uses. Mr Waldron said it was also better placed to provide for the urgent health and environmental needs for improved sewerage systems in many country towns.

“These communities are in desperate need of upgraded sewerage and if a genuine proven, effective and economic alternative is available and the local shires agree then it should be trialled,” he said.

“It is the 21st century and towns like Kukerin, Kondinin, Hyden, Boyup Brook and others should have access to deep sewerage.”