‘Recycle pipe’ RACV option

Erin Pearson
RACV could wean its $90 million Torquay Golf Course redevelopment off Jan Juc stormwater and onto recycled product from Black Rock, according to Surf Coast Shire.
Shire sustainable communities director Dennis Barker has told a council meeting that an approved recycled water pipeline for northern Torquay could extend to the golf course in around five years.
Council could consider the recycled water “alternative” when it reviewed RACV’s five-year licence to harvest Jan Juc drains, he said.
Mr Barker expected Barwon Water to begin work on the pipeline to Torquay around the end of next year.
“This would allow for future investigative options for the use of recycled water across other areas, including the RACV site.”
RACV started work on the redevelopment last week after councillors approved the licence to take water from drains for watering the course with 50 conditions including a range of environmental works.
Councillors approved the licence amid concerns about the impact on Jan Juc Creek, which drains stormwater to the sea.
The licence allows RACV to use the drain water for 10 years with an option of a further 10.
Council’s licence included an annual “connection fee” of $5000.
Cr Dean Webster said an RACV letter of commitment and a $50,000 contribution would accompany the five-year review of the licence.
Council surprised RACV in April with a vote to reject its initial application based on concerns for Jan Juc Creek.