30 June 2026
Two of the towns impacted hardest by last year’s dry conditions will meet in the fourth edition of Goulburn Valley Water’s Standpipe Cup this weekend, continuing to spotlight the role recycled water has in shaping the region’s long-term water future.
Mansfield and Euroa have contested the A grade netball and Senior football Standpipe Cup trophies since 2023 – an event becoming a key platform for raising awareness of recycled water collaborations between GVW and the two communities - including golf clubs, sporting organisations and councils.
Both towns have recycled water standpipes which can be accessed by the public for irrigation purposes. Twelve months ago Euroa and Violet Town were both subjects to unseasonal water restrictions, while Goulburn Valley Water also led a Save Water Mansfield campaign because of dry conditions in the region. GVW Acting Managing Director Daniel Flanagan said the Standpipe Cup was more than just a sporting contest – it was a reminder of how essential recycled water already is, and how important it will become.
“Events like the Standpipe Cup bring communities together while highlighting the role recycled water plays in keeping our region’s green spaces healthy and sustainable.
“As we plan for the future through our Price Plan 2028–33, and the development of our Urban Water Strategy, recycled water will be central to how we continue delivering affordable, reliable services across the region.”
The Urban Water Strategy will guide water and wastewater services for the next 50 years, helping GVW respond to challenges such as population growth, climate variability and increasing pressure on traditional water sources.
Mr Flanagan said the Standpipe Cup reinforced the need to think differently about water use.
“It reminds us how precious water is and the role recycled water can play in reducing demand on drinking water supplies. “We’re already seeing the benefits across the region, from golf courses to community open spaces, and there is significant opportunity to expand this to school ovals and even private farming enterprises.”
Euroa and Mansfield golf clubs, as well as Seymour, Yea, and Marysville have relied on recycled water for decades to maintain high-quality playing surfaces while reducing reliance on potable water.
The Standpipe Cup also builds on broader initiatives such as the Greening Euroa project, which eventually aims to supply recycled water to irrigate public open spaces, helping keep towns green during summer while supporting community wellbeing.
The 2026 Standpipe Cup will again bring together communities from across the region, reinforcing the importance of sustainable water management while celebrating the partnerships that make it possible. For the record Mansfield currently holds the senior football trophy and Euroa the netball trophy.
At Saturday’s game there will be the opportunity for people to find out more about Goulburn Valley Water’s future recycled water plans at an information marquee.
