Future-proofing Port Macquarie’s water quality and supply

Project highlights

• Water security: A dual supply system reduces the risk of water disruptions from potential failures at the primary pump station located in Port Macquarie.
• Improved water quality: Reduced travel distance for water in the network will enhance the quality of the water delivered.
• Staged improvements: A phased approach, which began in 2013 and is to be completed by 2028, means that each phase progressively enhances the network’s capacity.

With an investment value of $12 million, the Southern Arm Trunk Main project is an essential infrastructure upgrade that will ensure long-term water security and quality for the Port Macquarie region.  The project is a landmark multi-year infrastructure development, ensuring reliable water supply for both existing and future residents in the southern areas of Port Macquarie. Spanning over a decade, the project has focused on both providing water security and improving water quality for an expanding community.

The first phase of the project was completed in 2013, followed by subsequent phases in 2016 and 2018.  Clover has been involved throughout, helping to plan, source and supply piping solutions for each stage. This latest phase of the project, delivered between February and July 2024, has focused on completing a 6km trunk main network link between the Pacific Highway and Ocean Drive along Houston Mitchell Drive.

The final phase of the project, slated for completion by 2028, will include a connection to a new water filtration plant at Cowarra Dam and the construction of a renewed water trunk main to be installed between Bonny Hills and Kew, ultimately providing filtered water to customers in the region.

Bringing dual benefits through one project

The Southern Arm Trunk Main project is multifaceted in its impact, addressing both water security and water quality for the region.

The project will improve the delivery of water to the southern townships of Bonny Hills, Lake Cathie, and Camden Haven by providing a direct feed from Cowarra Dam. This will supplement the existing network that currently draws water from the Port Macquarie Dam. The new infrastructure will offer redundancy in the system, ensuring a more secure and reliable water supply for the community.

Historically, water has had to travel a significant distance for the population, which has compromised water quality. The new pipeline aims to reduce the distance that water must travel through the network to reach the southern areas, resulting in fresher and higher-quality water for residents.

A custom-fit solution

Ductile Iron Cement Lined (DICL) pipe was chosen for the Southern Arm Trunk Main due to its ability to withstand high water pressures across long distances, its ease of installation and its durability. DICL’s high burst strength and structure resists internal and external loads, making it ideal for installation in areas with variable terrain or ground movement.

One of the key advantages of DICL is its corrosion resistance. The Zinalium zinc aluminium external corrosion protection system protects the pipe from corrosion caused by surrounding soil conditions. The long service life of DICL as well as the ease of its installation made it a reliable choice for the Southern Arm Trunk Main. Each pipe joint can be deflected, reducing the number of bends required for a simplified installation.

From the initial planning to this latest phase, Clover has consistently provided expert advice and solutions so that each step of the project meets the growing needs of the community. With the final phase set to be complete by 2028, Clover’s continued partnership in this landmark project underscores our commitment to delivering sustainable, reliable infrastructure that benefits growing communities across the country.