Rushworth's Smok'n Sewers

10 August 2009  

Rushworth residents may notice smoke coming out of manholes and other unlikely places between 17 and 28 August.  This is due to testing on the Rushworth sewer system by Goulburn Valley Water.

Goulburn Valley Water’s, district manager, Mr Neville Whittaker said that the sewer system in Rushworth has had a history of stormwater entering the system during heavy rainfall events. 

“Stormwater entering the sewer system has a major impact on our operations, said Mr Whittaker.  “We require more energy to pump the stormwater through our system and in extreme cases can lead to overflows from sewer manholes.”

“Approximately 4km of sewer mains will be tested.  The smoke that is used is the same smoke that is used on stage by bands and theatre groups and is harmless.”

Mr Whittaker said that the smoke testing is undertaken to identify any connections and damaged pipes that allow stormwater or ground water to enter the sewer system.  “The defects are easily seen when smoke rises above the ground or from the guttering of a house or gully trap.  We are also on the lookout for damaged manhole seals.”

If you have any queries in relation to the smoke testing please contact Goulburn Valley Water’s 24 hour Customer Service Centre on Free Call 1800 45 45 00.

Authorised By P.A. Quinn, 104-110 Fryers Street Shepparton