The sewer network across the Sunshine Coast will be tested over the coming months, to make sure its ready for another intense wet season.
Unitywater will be testing the system in an effort to identify and fix any issues, to try to avoid sewage overflows.
Executive manager of sustainable infrastructure solutions Daniel Lambert says during storms and heavy rainfall, large volumes of stormwater inundate the sewerage network, overloading it and causing overflows.
“Stormwater and sewerage are two different systems and shouldn’t mix, however there are some points in our network where stormwater enters and causes issues,” he says.
“Our sewerage network is designed to handle increased capacity during wet weather, but not the volumes that we’ve been experiencing in our region recently. It’s important we pinpoint the issues and correct them.”
Mr Lambert says some homes and businesses have private stormwater pipes incorrectly connected to the sewerage network and Unitywater’s inspection program will help identify these.
“Our crews will be inspecting Unitywater’s infrastructure and private outdoor plumbing as part of the sewer network testing. We may require access to private property and backyards but we’ll always provide notice of the inspection and a courtesy doorknock to let residents know we are there,” he said.
Mr Lambert says if any defective or non-compliant connections are found, Unitywater will contact the property owner to advise how to fix them.
“We know it’s easy to not think twice about sewerage infrastructure but everyone can do their bit to help avoid overflows on their property and protect our environment,” Mr Lambert says.
The sewer network testing will take place from now until December, in the following suburbs:
- Buddina
- Caloundra
- Eumundi
- Nambour
- Palmwoods
- Pelican Waters
- Warana
- Yandina
Image: Supplied
