The Sounds of Leaks

5 June 2009 

Kyabram residents may notice smoke coming out of manholes and other unlikely places between 15 and 30 June.  This is due to testing on the Kyabram sewer system by Goulburn Valley Water’s contractor Underground Engineering Solutions.

Goulburn Valley Water is currently looking for leaks in the Kyabram water supply system using an acoustic leak detection system.

Goulburn Valley Water’s district manager Mr Neville Whittaker said that the Corporation is trying to identify leaks that are in the water supply system in an endeavour to reduce the water losses in Kyabram.

“Utility Services will be undertaking the testing for Goulburn Valley Water and their system uses the noise created by escaping water to locate leaks,” said Mr Whittaker.  “The system is able to locate leaking pipes and services in a quick and relatively inexpensive manner.”

Mr Whittaker said that at the end of May a trial involving 10km of water mains in the north west of the town was undertaken.  “During the trial the contractor located two cracked water mains, one leaking connection on the main from a water service and one leaking water service.”

“These leaks have since been repaired by our operations and maintenance staff and will result in the saving of many litres of water,” said Mr Whittaker.  “This is one example of our proactive approach to maintenance for our water supply system.”

Mr Whittaker said that following the success of the trial the Corporation and Utility Services will investigate another 18km of water mains within the Kyabram water supply system.  “The investigations will commence after the June long weekend and will cover the water mains in the south west of Kyabram in the streets bounded by McEwen Road, Allan Street, South Boundary Road and Breen Avenue.”

“These works will not affect any of our customer’s properties as all the work is carried out in the road reserve areas.  It is anticipated that works will be completed by the end of June,” said Mr Whittaker.

If residents have any queries in relation to the leak detection work they are requested to 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