24 April 2019

A major water meter infrastructure upgrade is beginning in the Gunnedah Shire next week, with the installation of automatic meter devices at Gunnedah, Curlewis, Tambar Springs and Mullaley.

Fully-funded by Gunnedah Shire Council, the project will see automatic water meter devices fitted at approximately 4500 homes and businesses throughout the Shire. Works will commence on Monday, 29 April 2019.

Gunnedah Shire Council Director Infrastructure Services Jeremy Bartlett said the new devices, provided by Taggle, monitor individual water use by transmitting meter readings to local receivers every hour.

“The automatic water meter devices will be a useful tool for both Council and residents to more accurately monitor water usage and identify issues, such as leaks, faster. There will be no change to water flow or pressure to properties,” Mr Bartlett said.

“While the new water meters will no longer need to be manually read, it is important to note that no jobs will be lost due to this project. The new system will require maintenance so current staff will be trained to undertake that work.

The data collected from the devices, such as daily and target usage, as well as cost per day, will be an important asset in future water infrastructure planning.

“The reporting processes will allow Council to better monitor peak demand and plan for water upgrades, as well as be notified if the water devices are tampered with,” Mr Bartlett said.

“Once all the devices are fitted and tested, Council will look to initiate a web-based tool that can be accessed by customers so they are able to monitor their own water usage.”

The devices will replace existing water meters and need to be installed by hand on every property with access to town water. The device battery lasts for approximately 15 years, and will not incur any costs for the property owner.

Contractors from Dataright will undertake the work and will knock on residents’ doors before commencing the replacement program to ensure the time is suitable, as water interruptions will occur.

For more information contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Customer Relations Team on (02) 6740 2100.

Photo Caption: Acting Manager Water Services Michael Ludlow displays one of the new automatic water meter devices.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.