15 May, 2026
The first of four projects in Goulburn Valley Water’s 50‑year Master Plan to meet Mansfield’s future water demands is commencing soon, with works set to begin on a new 9.7 kilometre pipeline.
The $16 million project will improve untreated raw water transfer capacity from Mansfield’s existing storage reservoirs to the Mansfield Water Treatment Plant.
The new pipeline replaces aging infrastructure that is currently operating at its maximum capacity and relies on temporary operational measures during peak demand periods.
Pipeline works will commence in May 2026 and are expected to be completed by early 2027.
Goulburn Valley Water General Manager Planning and Assets, Regan Flanagan, said the long‑term master plan will ensure Mansfield can meet future water demand through to 2074.
“Four projects were identified as critical to meeting future demand for Mansfield. The first of these projects will increase the capacity of the pipeline carrying untreated raw water to the water treatment plant, helping provide more drinking water,” Mrs Flanagan said.
“The overall program will be delivered over an eight-year period and also includes an upgraded Mansfield Water Treatment Plant, supported by more raw water storage and new pipeline connecting the Delatite River to the existing raw water storage at Ritchies Reservoir.
“The end result will be a significant increase in water supply reliability for Mansfield as the town continues to grow.”
In recent years, Goulburn Valley Water has implemented temporary operational measures to ensure Mansfield’s drinking water supply continues to meet demand. This investment provides the long‑term solution needed to support the town for decades to come.
Mrs Flanagan said the project also aligns with the Victorian Government’s recently launched Make Every Drop Count campaign.
“While these projects provide the infrastructure to support Mansfield for the next half century, the message to customers remains clear – water is a precious resource and needs to be used wisely,” she said.
“By combining smart infrastructure planning with ongoing water efficiency, we can ensure Mansfield has a secure and sustainable water future.”
More information about this project is available on Goulburn Valley Water’s online engagement website: https://watermatters.gvwater.vic.gov.au/mansfield-pipeline
Mansfield’s water supply is drawn from the Delatite River into untreated raw water storage reservoirs, before being transferred to the Mansfield Water Treatment Plant.