Yarra Valley Water has committed over $2.6 billion to essential infrastructure in its five-year plan. 

Yarra Valley Water’s General Manager of Growth and Distribution, Bridie Fennessy, says ongoing development is needed to meet the city’s needs. 

“More than 30 per cent of Victorians rely on our services every day. We service some of Melbourne’s most rapidly developing suburbs, including those in the Northern Growth Area,” she said.

The projects include the $6 million Buttress Crescent water pump station and pipeline in South Morang. 

This new facility, which includes a 1.8 km pipeline, connects to the Mernda reservoir, securing water supply for one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing regions. 

“As one of Melbourne’s major growth areas, it’s going to need a lot of water for new people moving into the area,” Fennessy said.

The pipeline’s route also gave Yarra Valley Water an opportunity to protect a part of Melbourne’s heritage. It crosses the Yan Yean Water Supply system, a historical landmark dating back to 1853.

“Preserving Melbourne’s heritage and restoring this pipeline ensures it will continue to contribute to the liveability of our beautiful city for generations to come,” Fennessy said.

Yarra Valley Water’s 2023-28 pricing plan aims to improve supply reliability in Melbourne’s north and help meet growing demand across the western suburbs as well.

Additionally, Yarra Valley Water appointed Jamil Tye, a Yorta Yorta and Boonwurrung man, as the first Independent Aboriginal Delegate to its Board of Directors. 

Jamil, who joined in September 2024, brings extensive experience from his roles in community engagement, governance, and education.

As part of the Victorian Government’s Water for Victoria policy, Jamil’s appointment marks progress toward greater involvement of First Peoples in water management.

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