The City of Melville in metropolitan Perth has been recognised for its water management efforts.
The Water Corporation recently presented the Council with a Platinum Award for its water management efforts at Heathcote Reserve, Applecross, which has resulted in a more than 50 percent increase in water efficiency at the site.
Compared with 2013/14, Heathcote Reserve reduced scheme water consumption by 18.6 megalitres in 2014/2015, equating to an over 75 percent reduction.
The reduction was achieved by increasing the use of groundwater to landscaped areas, upgrading water fittings, and improving water consumption processes.
City of Melville Mayor Russell Aubrey said the Platinum Award, which is presented to organisations who have achieved more than a 50 percent improvement in efficiency, was confirmation of the City’s ongoing commitment to conserve and reduce water consumption.
“The City has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Water Corporation and The Department of Water, further strengthening a commitment to work together to reduce water use across the City and increase community awareness about the importance of water efficiency and conservation.
“The City of Melville will also develop a new Water Efficiency Management Plan later this year.
“As well as a strong focus on community and corporate water conservation, we also continue our work to improve the quality of ground water, waterways and lakes for residents today and for future generations.”
Since 2005, the City of Melville has reduced its total scheme water consumption by over 30 percent. Initiatives to reduce water consumption have included upgrades to water fittings at City-operated facilities, upgrades to irrigation systems, closer monitoring of larger water consumption sites using data logger technology, as well as staff training and education in water conservation measures.
The City of Melville has received previous recognition for its water conservation efforts including being certified as a Waterwise Council, Waterwise Aquatic Centre at LeisureFit Booragoon and achieving Milestone 5 as part of the Local Governments for Sustainability Water Campaign™, a campaign by the International Council for Local Environment Initiatives (ICLEI).
