Loddon Shire Council

community will be instantly improved. This is made even more important by the fact that the community is highly disadvantaged as they do not always have access to the same amenities as others. The project is expected to cost about $80million,which includes$40million from the Victorian state government and a $20 million contribution from Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water and landholders. The Commonwealth Government will also be asked to contribute. Wimmera Malle Water will be constructing and operating the scheme as an extension to the existing pipeline while the ongoing operational andmaintenance costswill be covered by the regulated water charges for the pipeline. Even considering the high cost of the project, the Loddon Shire Council suggests that it will generate aggregate benefits for the region valued at $114 million with a positive benefit to cost ratio of 1.4 and a net present value of $33.4 million. In a similar vein, the Council is strongly advocating the for the provision of reticulated sewerage and town water supply for Newbridge. Back in 2006, the Victorian state government identified the town as requiring improved wastewater management in order to protect both the health of the residents and the surrounding environment. There are several limitations which to date have prevented these networks from being realised, however that all may change soon through potential provision of a potable reticulated water supply as a component of the South West Loddon Pipeline project. Ensuring the sustainability of the area The above projects are just two of many similar investments or initiatives being undertaken by the Council in order to ensure the sustainability of thearea. According to IanMcLauchlan, the Director of Operations, the Council has been focused on long-term sustainability for a long time. As such,